New Regulation by SGK: Possible Changes to Food Card Usage, Authorized Person’s Statement – Latest Update
The latest regulation made by the Social Security Institution (SGK) regarding meal cards has been welcomed by Infantry, whose views were included in the statement made by the association. Infantry emphasized that this regulation will not cause difficulties for employees and employers in today’s economic conditions and will not prevent the purchase of food.
Infantry stated that thanks to the regulation, the way for meal allowances to be increased in favor of employees has been paved. The Council of State’s decision to prevent the collection of premiums from meal cards, which are in-kind aid, has been a positive development according to Infantry. SGK issued a regulation and subsequent circular declaring that no premium will be charged from meal cards and that they are considered aid in kind under Article 80 of Law No. 5510.
The exemption of meal cards from premiums, which are in favor of employees and employers and were valid before 2022, has been implemented by SGK. The circular published on December 31, 2024, clearly states that meal cards can be used in all payments like replacing money, without any restrictions, and are valid in all bank POSs and sectors.
However, meal cards cannot be used in bank ATMs and are only valid in a closed network of contracted meal and ready-to-eat food points such as restaurants, patisseries, markets, and buffets. Infantry emphasized that meal cards support the registered economy with an electronic control infrastructure and operate without any tax loss.
Pluxee Turkey Deputy General Manager Koray Bozkurt also praised the decision to exempt meal cards from SSI premiums. With the latest circular published by SGK, meal cards have become 100 percent exempt from premiums without any restrictions on their usage areas. This decision will benefit employers and employees alike, providing incentives to increase food aid provided to employees.
Meal cards offer a transparent and controlled system for the public, with all payment processes being digital. Bozkurt stated that this system benefits both employers and the public, as it streamlines the VAT collection process and provides advantages over cash transactions. Overall, the exemption of meal cards from premiums is seen as a positive step towards supporting employees and improving the economy.
