IMSS Pension: Supreme Court Eliminates Discrimination in Survivor Benefits 2026

Mexico City, Mexico – February 17, 2026 – A landmark ruling by the Second Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) has corrected a historical inequity in Mexico’s pension system. The decision, impacting thousands of families, determined that the 1973 Social Security Law engaged in discriminatory practices by establishing different benefit amounts based on relationship to the deceased worker, favoring widows over parents.

Following the ruling, the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) is now obligated to adjust calculations for a specific group of beneficiaries: parents (ascendants) of a deceased insured individual, who will see a substantial 70% increase in their monthly deposits, bringing them in line with widow’s pensions.

From 20% to 90%: Ending Unjustified Distinction

The core of the legal controversy centered on the percentages allocated after the death of the policyholder. The existing regulations granted: 90% of the pension to the surviving spouse or concubine; and only 20% to dependent parents (ascendants).

The Court analyzed that this distinction violated the right to equality. Under the new jurisprudence, if there is no spouse or children, parents who were economically dependent on the worker are entitled to receive the same 90% that would be given to a widow.

“The pension is generated by the worker’s effort, so there cannot be an unjustified distinction between beneficiaries,” the Supreme Court stated.

The SCJN clarified the nature of these funds: they are not a “gift” or a gracious concession from the State or the IMSS. Rather, they are a right derived from the labor contributions the deceased made during their productive life to guarantee the subsistence of their loved ones, whether it be their partner or their parents.

IMSS Pension: March 2026 Payment Date

According to the official calendar of the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), the pension payment corresponding to March 2026 will be made on Monday, March 2, 2026, the first business day of the month. From that date, pensioners will be able to access their money through bank transfer or directly at a branch, depending on the chosen payment method.

Authorities recommend that beneficiaries plan their visit to bank branches in advance, as the first few days of each month typically see high demand from people withdrawing their funds.

If the deposit is not received on the scheduled date, pensioners can call 800 623 23 23 (option 3), or go directly to their Subdelegation or Family Medicine Unit to verify the payment status and request a non-collected deposit.