$490 Cost of Living Boost Arrives April 30: As Singaporeans continue to face rising prices for essentials like food, transport, healthcare, and utilities, the government has stepped up with a timely financial assistance package. The $490 Cost of Living Boost, scheduled for disbursement on April 30, 2025, is part of the broader Assurance Package (AP) that aims to cushion the impact of inflation, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) increase, and other cost pressures on everyday life. Especially tailored to help lower- and middle-income Singaporeans, this payment is both inclusive and automatic.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down everything you need to know about this important financial support. From eligibility criteria and payment methods to real-life usage scenarios, we aim to make this guide accessible to everyone—whether you’re a young working adult, retiree, caregiver, or student. Let’s dive into how this boost is designed to make a difference.
$490 Cost of Living Boost Arrives April 30
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $490 (combination of cash payout and vouchers) |
| Disbursement Date | April 30, 2025 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Singapore citizens aged 21+ with 2023 income ≤ $100,000 and ≤ 1 property |
| Type of Support | Part of the Assurance Package (enhanced in Budget 2024) |
| Application Needed? | No – payments are issued automatically |
| Disbursement Method | PayNow (linked to NRIC) or GovCash |
| Voucher Type | CDC Vouchers ($90), valid at community merchants |
| Official Resource | govbenefits.gov.sg |
Singapore’s $490 Cost of Living Boost is more than just a payout—it’s a statement of commitment to supporting citizens in uncertain times. Through targeted cash and voucher assistance, it aims to reduce financial strain and help households manage daily expenses more comfortably.
With no action needed beyond updating your information, it’s crucial to make sure your PayNow-NRIC setup and mobile contacts are current. Check your eligibility, get informed, and make the most of this thoughtful initiative. For more information and future updates, visit govbenefits.gov.sg.
What Is the $490 Cost of Living Boost?
The $490 payout is a government-issued financial assistance measure designed to provide immediate relief to Singaporeans in the face of increased living expenses. Under the Assurance Package (AP)—first introduced in Budget 2020 and expanded in Budget 2024—this payout is part of a multi-year support framework to mitigate the effects of rising GST and inflation.
Breakdown of the Payout:
- $400 in Cash: Directly credited via PayNow-NRIC or GovCash
- $90 in CDC Vouchers: Redeemable at heartland shops, hawker centres, and major supermarket chains
This initiative builds upon earlier disbursements and reaffirms the government’s commitment to helping Singaporeans maintain their quality of life during challenging economic times. These funds do not require repayment and are non-taxable.
Who Is Eligible?
The scheme is intended for a wide swath of the population but targets support where it’s needed most.
Eligibility Requirements:
To qualify, you must:
- Be a Singapore citizen aged 21 and above in 2024
- Have an assessable income (AI) of $100,000 or less for the Year of Assessment 2023
- Own no more than one residential property in Singapore
There’s no need to apply, as eligibility is determined using government records such as tax filings (via IRAS) and housing ownership databases.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, you can check using the eligibility checker on govbenefits.gov.sg.
When Will You Receive It?
The funds and vouchers will be distributed on or shortly after April 30, 2025. Distribution is automated and based on whether your PayNow-NRIC link is active.
Distribution Methods:
- $400 Cash: Credited to PayNow-NRIC linked accounts. If you don’t use PayNow, the funds will be issued through GovCash, which can be accessed at OCBC ATMs using Singpass.
- $90 CDC Vouchers: Sent via SMS (or physical letter if you have no registered mobile) and redeemable at over 23,000 participating merchants and hawkers.
$490 Cost of Living Boost Arrives April 30 Guide: Ensure You Receive Your Payment
To avoid missing out or facing delays, take these steps:
- Log into Singpass and access the Assurance Package portal.
- Check your PayNow registration: Ensure it’s linked to your NRIC, not just your mobile number.
- Review your IRAS records: Ensure your 2023 income was declared correctly (especially if you’re self-employed).
- Look out for SMS or CDC Voucher mailers: Expected from the first week of May 2025.
- Use CDC Vouchers early: They are typically valid for a few months only.
Why It Matters: How the $490 Makes a Difference
While $490 may not cover every bill, it can go a long way for households managing tight budgets. Here are a few examples:
- Senior on CPF payouts: Can use the $400 to buy monthly medication or top-up EZ-Link cards.
- Single-parent household: Puts the vouchers towards fresh produce and children’s school supplies.
- University student: Allocates cash toward WiFi, utilities, and groceries.
- Freelancer or gig worker: Uses the payout for essential transport or insurance premiums.
In all these scenarios, the payout provides immediate breathing space—a welcome reprieve in uncertain times.
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Budget 2024 and Beyond: More Help on the Way
The $490 payout is part of a bigger support package designed to reinforce Singapore’s economic stability and social resilience. Additional measures include:
- More MediSave Top-Ups in 2026
- Payouts for Seniors under the Majulah Package
- U-Save and S&CC Rebates: Ongoing utility and service charge relief
- Enhanced ComCare and Silver Support Schemes: Financial help for the most vulnerable
- SkillsFuture Credits: More subsidies for training and reskilling
This holistic approach ensures that short-term relief is complemented by long-term empowerment.
FAQs On $490 Cost of Living Boost Arrives April 30
Q1: Do I need to apply?
No. If you meet the eligibility criteria, the payout is automatic.
Q2: What if my PayNow is linked to my mobile number, not NRIC?
Link it to your NRIC via your bank’s mobile app to receive this payout.
Q3: What if I’m overseas?
As long as your NRIC and income records qualify, and you have a Singapore bank account, you’ll receive the payout.
Q4: Can I receive both cash and vouchers?
Yes. All eligible recipients get $400 cash and $90 in vouchers.
Q5: I didn’t get my vouchers last year. Will I still get this one?
Yes—each disbursement is evaluated independently. Make sure your mobile number is correct in Singpass.
Q6: Are PRs or foreigners eligible?
No. This is for Singapore citizens only.
Q7: Is the $490 taxable?
No. It is non-taxable and not counted as income.
Where to Get Help
- Official Portal: govbenefits.gov.sg
- Voucher Directory: vouchers.cdc.gov.sg
- Call Centre: 1800-222-0000 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm)
- GovCash Info: assurance.gov.sg/govcash
- ATM Access: Available at participating OCBC ATMs with Singpass login
