Introduction
The initial outcomes of the IMSS pilot program for app-based workers have shed light on the realities surrounding this work model, dispelling several myths along the way.
Myths and Realities
1. The Actual Universe of Workers
Authorities estimated that nearly 660,000 people were employed through digital platforms. However, the IMSS reported over a million registered workers in just the first month of the pilot program. This figure reveals the true scope of individuals providing services via applications.
Although not all drivers and couriers will gain full access to social security in the coming months—depending on their net monthly income—it does showcase the actual number of people engaged in app-based services. Interestingly, digital platform estimations were also off the mark; prior to labor reform regulating app work, companies suggested around 2.5 million people earned income through apps.
2. Complementary Income Activity
Before the federal government proposed regulating app work, companies often argued that it was a supplementary income source for many—not their primary economic resource. However, according to the IMSS, 74% of drivers and couriers rely on digital platforms as their main income source. This contradicts the notion that app work is merely complementary.
3. Multiple App Connections
Another common claim was that individuals offer services across multiple apps. While this is part of the app-based work reality, IMSS data confirms it’s not widespread. Only 20% of drivers and couriers connect to more than one app; 80% are linked to just a single platform.
4. A Young Person’s Work
The pilot program’s initial figures confirm the link between app-based work and youth employment. 56% of this sector’s labor force is under 35, indicating a predominantly young demographic.
What’s Next in the App-Based Worker Pilot Program?
In upcoming months, only those drivers and couriers with net income equal to or exceeding the minimum wage will retain full access to social security. Those falling short will be classified as independent workers but will still have work accident coverage under the Federal Labor Law (LFT). However, they can regain affiliation once their income meets the LFT threshold.
This pilot program will continue until December of this year. Upon completion, the IMSS can propose security social legislation modifications to Congress, designing a regime fitting the app-based work realities.
Access to social security for app workers stems from the LFT reform regulating app work, introducing special rules for these activities while preserving model flexibility and ensuring benefits for those generating income equal to or surpassing the minimum wage.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What did the IMSS pilot program reveal about app-based work? A: The program debunked myths, showing that app-based work is the primary income source for 74% of drivers and couriers, contradicting claims it’s merely complementary. It also revealed that 80% of these workers connect to only one app, and the workforce is predominantly young.
- Q: How will access to social security be determined for app-based workers? A: Only those drivers and couriers with net income equal to or exceeding the minimum wage will retain full access to social security. Those falling short will be classified as independent workers but still have work accident coverage.
- Q: What happens if an app-based worker’s income doesn’t meet the threshold for full coverage? A: They can regain affiliation once their income meets the LFT threshold. This implies that some workers might experience periods without full coverage for all IMSS services throughout the year.
- Q: How long will the IMSS pilot program for app-based workers last? A: The program will continue until December of this year, after which the IMSS can propose security social legislation modifications to Congress.
