Senegal Social Contributions Guide 2026

Senegal's social security system is administered by multiple institutions: IPRES (Institution de Prévoyance Retraite du Sénégal) for retirement, and CSS (Caisse de Sécurité Sociale) for family benefits, occupational hazards, and medical coverage. IPRES contributions are 5.6% employee + 8.4% employer, capped at XOF 1,800,000 per year. CSS contributions are 6% employee + 6% employer, with no cap on family benefit contributions. CSS occupational hazard contributions range from 1% to 5% depending on risk.

Overview — Social Security in Senegal

Senegal's social security system is a contributory scheme providing retirement pensions, family benefits, occupational injury coverage, and medical insurance. The system is funded by contributions from both employees and employers, calculated as percentages of gross salary. The main institutions are IPRES (retirement/pension), CSS (family benefits, occupational hazards, medical), and the Institut de Prévoyance Maladie (IPM) for health insurance. All employees in the formal sector must be registered with these institutions. Self-employed individuals may contribute voluntarily to certain schemes.

IPRES — Retirement Contributions (5.6% EE + 8.4% ER)

IPRES (Institution de Prévoyance Retraite du Sénégal) manages the mandatory retirement pension scheme for private-sector employees. Contribution rates are:

  • Employee contribution — 5.6% of gross salary
  • Employer contribution — 8.4% of gross salary
  • Total IPRES rate — 14% of gross salary

IPRES contributions are capped at a salary ceiling of XOF 1,800,000 per year (XOF 150,000 per month). This means the maximum annual contribution is XOF 100,800 employee + XOF 151,200 employer, totalling XOF 252,000 per year. The cap significantly limits pension benefits for higher earners. IPRES provides old-age pensions (retirement age 60), survivor's pensions, disability pensions, and lump-sum payments.

CSS — Family Benefits (6% EE + 6% ER, Uncapped)

CSS (Caisse de Sécurité Sociale) administers family benefits (prestations familiales). Contribution rates are:

  • Employee contribution — 6% of gross salary (uncapped)
  • Employer contribution — 6% of gross salary (uncapped)
  • Total CSS family rate — 12% of gross salary (uncapped)

Unlike IPRES, the CSS family benefit contributions have no salary cap, meaning the full gross salary is subject to the 6%+6% rate. These contributions fund family allowances paid to employees with children, including prenatal allowances, birth grants, and monthly family allowances for children up to age 16 (or 21 if in education). The amount of family allowances varies based on the number of children.

CSS — Occupational Hazards (0% EE, 1–5% ER)

The occupational hazards branch (accidents du travail et maladies professionnelles) is funded entirely by the employer:

  • Employee contribution — 0%
  • Employer contribution — 1% to 5% of gross salary, depending on the risk category of the business

The rate varies by industry sector — low-risk office work may be 1%, while high-risk construction or industrial activities may be up to 5%. This branch covers medical expenses, temporary and permanent disability benefits, and survivor benefits in case of work-related accidents or occupational diseases.

CSS — Medical Coverage (IPM)

CSS also administers medical coverage through the Institut de Prévoyance Maladie (IPM). Contributions are capped and shared between employee and employer. The IPM provides reimbursement for medical expenses including doctor visits, hospitalisation, medications, and maternity care. The contribution rates and caps are set by decree and may be adjusted periodically. Employers may also establish complementary health insurance plans (mutuelles) for their employees.

FAQs

Are social security contributions deductible for tax purposes?

Yes, both employee and employer social security contributions are deductible. Employee contributions are deductible from gross salary before IRPP calculation. Employer contributions are deductible as business expenses for corporate tax purposes.

Can I contribute to IPRES if I am self-employed?

Self-employed individuals may join the IPRES voluntary scheme. Contributions are based on declared income, subject to the same caps and rates. Voluntary membership is recommended to build retirement savings.

What happens to my IPRES contributions if I leave Senegal?

If you leave Senegal permanently, you may be able to withdraw your IPRES contributions. The rules vary depending on your nationality and whether Senegal has a social security agreement with your home country.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Senegalese social security contributions for the 2026 tax year. Contribution rates and caps may change. Always consult with IPRES, CSS, or a qualified Senegalese financial advisor for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax or pension advice.