The digitalization of the Administration continues to advance and Social Security has just taken a new step in that direction. An order recently published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) expands the groups that will be obliged to interact electronically with this body, a measure that will directly affect thousands of people who receive benefits linked to a sick leave.
The novelty is included in Order ISM/541/2026, of May 27, published in the BOE on June 1. The regulation modifies the Social Security communication system and includes among the groups obliged to receive electronic notifications those who apply for or receive temporary incapacity benefits, as well as people affected by procedures related to permanent incapacities or non-incapacitating permanent injuries.
What changes for those on sick leave
Until now, the obligation to interact electronically with Social Security was reserved for certain groups in specific procedures. With the new regulation, recipients of temporary incapacity benefits are now integrated into this system of mandatory digital communications.
This means that resolutions, requests, summonses, or any other communication related to these procedures will be made available to interested parties through the electronic channels enabled by the Administration.
The measure will not come into effect immediately. The order itself establishes a three-month adaptation period, so it will begin to apply on September 1, 2026.
How the new notifications will work
Social Security will be able to send alerts via SMS or email to inform that a new communication is available. However, these messages will be purely informative and will not replace the official notification.
Interested parties will have to access the corresponding electronic headquarters to consult the content of the communications. To do this, it will be necessary to have one of the identification systems admitted by the Administration, such as Cl@ve, digital certificate, or electronic DNI.
The reform seeks to streamline administrative procedures and reduce reliance on postal communications, which in many cases cause delays in the receipt of resolutions or requests.
Exceptions and in-person assistance
The new regulation does not completely eliminate in-person attention. Social Security will continue to consider certain exceptions to avoid situations of defenselessness, especially in cases where electronic communication is not possible under adequate conditions.
In addition, the Social Security Information and Attention Centers (CAISS) will provide support to citizens who need help accessing electronic notifications or consulting the documentation available on the electronic headquarters.
With this modification published in the BOE, Social Security expands the scope of digital administration in one of the areas that affect the largest number of citizens, incorporating recipients of temporary incapacity benefits for sick leave into a system that aims to accelerate communications and simplify the management of files.