Workfare Boost in 2025: The Singapore government’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme is getting a major upgrade in 2025. With a mission to better support lower-wage workers, the government is rolling out increased cash support—with payouts as high as $4,900 per year. This move is a game-changer for thousands of Singaporeans who rely on Workfare to boost their income and strengthen retirement savings.
Whether you’re employed or self-employed, this article will walk you through the new payout amounts, eligibility rules, payment dates, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
Massive $2,500–$3,000 Workfare Boost in 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Annual WIS Payout (2025) | Up to $4,900 for employees, $3,267 for self-employed |
| Age Criteria | 30 years old and above (any age for persons with disabilities) |
| Monthly Income Range | $500 to $3,000 gross income |
| Residency Criteria | Must live in a property with annual value ≤ $21,000 |
| Application | Auto-enrolled for employees; SEPs must declare income |
| Disbursement | Via PayNow-NRIC or GovCash |
| Official Website | CPF Workfare Income Supplement |
The enhanced Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme in 2025 is a powerful initiative that aims to uplift Singapore’s lower-wage workforce. With higher payouts, monthly disbursements, and stronger retirement support, it provides real, tangible benefits to thousands.
If you’re eligible, don’t leave money on the table. Check your CPF statements, declare your income if self-employed, and make sure your PayNow is linked to your NRIC. The process is easy, and the impact on your financial well-being could be life-changing.
What Is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
The WIS scheme was introduced to help low-income Singaporean workers improve their financial stability. By giving a mix of cash payouts and CPF top-ups, the government encourages continuous employment while helping individuals save for retirement.
The scheme has become a crucial support tool for many workers across sectors such as cleaning, retail, logistics, and more. The 2025 enhancement makes this support even more meaningful.
WIS Payout Increase in 2025 – Full Breakdown
From January 1, 2025, eligible workers will receive increased payouts based on age and employment type. Here’s how much you can expect:
For Employees
| Age Group | Maximum Annual WIS Payout (2025) |
|---|---|
| 30–34 | $2,450 |
| 35–44 | $3,500 |
| 45–59 | $4,200 |
| 60 & above | $4,900 |
| Persons with Disabilities (PWD) | $4,900 |
For Self-Employed Persons (SEPs)
| Age Group | Maximum Annual WIS Payout (2025) |
|---|---|
| 30–34 | $1,633 |
| 35–44 | $2,333 |
| 45–59 | $2,800 |
| 60 & above | $3,267 |
| PWD | $3,267 |
These amounts include both cash payouts and CPF contributions. The idea is to help workers cover current expenses while building a solid foundation for retirement.
Updated Eligibility Criteria for WIS 2025
To qualify for the Workfare Income Supplement in 2025, you must meet all of the following conditions:
General Criteria
- Be a Singapore Citizen
- Be 30 years old and above (or any age if you have a disability)
- Earn an average gross monthly income of $500 to $3,000
- Live in a property with an Annual Value of $21,000 or less
- Own no more than one property
- If married, the combined assessable income of both spouses must not exceed $70,000, and they must not own more than one property collectively
Additional Criteria for Self-Employed Persons
- Must declare net trade income to IRAS
- Must make MediSave contributions by the required deadlines
Tip: If you’re self-employed and miss the March 31 deadline for declaring income and contributing to MediSave, you may forfeit the benefit for that year.
WIS 2025 Payment Dates – When Will You Receive It?
Knowing when you’ll be paid can help you plan your monthly and yearly finances better.
For Employees: Monthly Payouts
WIS will be paid monthly, but there’s a 2-month lag after your work month.
- For work done in January 2025, payment will be credited by end-March 2025
- For work done in February 2025, payment arrives by end-April 2025, and so on
For Self-Employed: Annual Payout
- One-time payout made from end-April 2025
- You must have:
- Declared 2024 income by March 18, 2025
- Contributed to MediSave by March 31, 2025
Workfare Boost in 2025: How Will the Payments Be Disbursed?
For Employees:
- 40% in cash
- 60% credited to CPF account
For Self-Employed Persons:
- 10% in cash
- 90% to MediSave
Cash portions will be credited to your PayNow-NRIC-linked bank account. If you don’t have one, you’ll receive your payment through GovCash, which can be accessed at OCBC ATMs island-wide, even if you’re not an OCBC customer.
Tip: Link your bank account to PayNow-NRIC to receive your funds faste
Do You Need to Apply for WIS?
For Employees: No Application Needed
- The system automatically checks your CPF contributions
- If you meet the eligibility criteria, your payment is processed automatically
For Self-Employed Persons: Action Required
- You must declare your net trade income via IRAS
- Ensure MediSave contributions are completed before the cutoff date
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FAQs on Workfare Boost in 2025
Q1: What if I start work mid-year? Will I still get WIS?
Yes. WIS is pro-rated based on the number of months you work in the year.
Q2: I work part-time and earn below $500/month. Do I qualify?
No. The minimum qualifying income is $500/month. Try to increase your income to this level to qualify.
Q3: How do I know if my property’s Annual Value is under $21,000?
You can check it through IRAS’ myTax Portal, using your SingPass.
Q4: Can I get WIS if I also receive Silver Support or ComCare?
Yes. You can receive multiple government support schemes, including Silver Support and ComCare, at the same time as WIS.
