Singapore’s Workfare 2025: If you’re a lower-income worker in Singapore, Workfare 2025 could be your best opportunity yet to boost your annual income and retirement savings. The updated Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme is rolling out several major enhancements in 2025 that are designed to put more money in your pocket—whether you’re a delivery rider, hawker assistant, retail staff, or part-time worker. But here’s the catch: many eligible Singaporeans are unaware of how much they could be receiving, and even fewer know how to take full advantage of the scheme.
The good news? We’ve broken down everything you need to know about the 2025 WIS changes—from eligibility criteria and payout amounts to how to get paid faster and more consistently. Whether you’re an employee, self-employed, or platform worker, this guide is your step-by-step roadmap to getting the most out of Workfare 2025.
Singapore’s Workfare 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| New Workfare 2025 Payouts | Up to $4,900/year for eligible workers aged 60 and above |
| Income Cap Adjustment | Monthly income ceiling raised from $2,500 to $3,000 |
| Platform Workers | Now receive monthly WIS payouts, not annual disbursements |
| Cash & CPF Split (Employees) | 40% in cash, 60% to CPF Ordinary Account |
| Cash & MediSave Split (SEPs/Platform) | 10% in cash, 90% to MediSave Account |
| Minimum Age Requirement | Must be at least 30 years old in the work year |
| Housing Eligibility | Annual property value under $21,000, no more than one property owned |
| Spouse Income Limit | Married applicants: Spouse’s assessable income must be under $70,000/year |
| Official WIS Website | cpf.gov.sg – Workfare |
| Eligibility Calculator | WIS Calculator |
Workfare 2025 is a game-changer for lower-income workers in Singapore. With larger payouts, a wider eligibility net, and monthly support for platform workers, this scheme is more relevant than ever in today’s economic climate. Whether you’re a retiree supplementing your income, a delivery rider braving the streets, or a part-time cleaner juggling shifts, you deserve the financial backing WIS offers.
Take five minutes today to visit the WIS Calculator, review your CPF contributions, and ensure your payment details are up to date. The money is there—don’t miss out on what you’ve earned.
Understanding the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a long-standing initiative by the Singapore government to reward and support lower-wage Singaporean workers. It supplements your monthly earnings while encouraging regular employment and CPF contributions—critical to ensuring a decent standard of living in retirement.
WIS covers a broad group of workers:
- Employees in part-time or full-time jobs
- Self-employed persons (SEPs) like freelancers, hawkers, and private tutors
- Platform workers, such as delivery riders and private-hire car drivers
It provides both cash payouts and CPF top-ups, helping you manage your current needs while building long-term financial security.
What’s Changing in Workfare 2025?
The 2025 changes to WIS are part of broader government reforms to uplift workers, strengthen social safety nets, and align benefits with inflation and new employment trends.
1. Higher Payouts for Most Workers
- The maximum payout is now $4,900/year for seniors aged 60 and above.
- Other age bands will also receive increased amounts (exact figures to be finalized).
- These payments are on top of your salary, meaning more take-home and more CPF savings.
2. Higher Income Ceiling
- The qualifying monthly income has been increased to $3,000/month, up from $2,500.
- This change widens the reach of WIS, allowing more workers—including part-timers and gig workers—to benefit.
3. Monthly Payouts for Platform Workers
- Platform workers will now get their WIS monthly, not just once a year.
- This aligns payouts with CPF contributions made by platform operators, offering more consistent financial support.
4. CPF Allocation Rules
- Employees: 40% in cash, 60% to CPF (Ordinary Account).
- SEPs & Platform Workers: 10% in cash, 90% to MediSave.
- These allocations help build retirement savings while giving immediate cash relief.
Who Qualifies for WIS in 2025?
To receive Workfare, you must meet the following updated eligibility criteria:
General Conditions
- Be a Singapore Citizen
- Be aged 30 or above during the relevant work year
- Earn an average monthly gross income of $3,000 or less
Property and Household Rules
- Live in a property with annual value under $21,000
- Own no more than one property
- If married, your spouse’s assessable income must not exceed $70,000/year
Employment Conditions
- Employees: Must have CPF contributions from employers
- Platform workers: CPF must be deducted and submitted monthly by platforms
- SEPs: Must declare income to IRAS and contribute to MediSave to qualify
Even if you have multiple part-time jobs, as long as your average income fits the criteria and CPF contributions are made, you could be eligible.
WIS 2025 Payouts by Age Group (Estimated)
While full tables for 2025 are not yet released, here’s a projection based on available data and announced adjustments:
| Age Group | 2024 Max Payout | 2025 Estimate | Payment Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 & above | $4,200 | $4,900 | Annual / Monthly |
| 55–59 | $3,600 | ~$4,300 | Annual |
| 35–54 | $2,800 | ~$3,200 | Annual |
| 30–34 | $1,900 | ~$2,200 | Annual |
The final amounts may vary slightly depending on exact income level and employment status.
How Are Workfare Payments Made?
For Employees:
- Paid annually, usually by March of the following year
- 40% in cash (PayNow-NRIC or bank account)
- 60% into CPF Ordinary Account
For Platform Workers:
- Paid monthly, starting January 2025
- Tied to monthly CPF contributions from platform operators
- 10% in cash, 90% into MediSave
For Self-Employed Persons (SEPs):
- File income with IRAS before tax deadline
- Make MediSave contributions according to earnings
- Payments disbursed annually (split into cash + MediSave)
To avoid delays, ensure you:
- Link your PayNow-NRIC to your bank account
- Register or update your banking details with CPF Board
Check Your Eligibility and Estimate Payout
Not sure if you qualify? Use these official tools:
- WIS Eligibility Checker
- WIS Payout Calculator
These digital services are updated yearly and require basic details like age, income, and employment type to provide accurate estimates.
What Should You Do Now?
- Review Your CPF Contribution Status: Make sure your employer or platform is contributing monthly CPF. If you’re self-employed, stay up-to-date with MediSave contributions.
- Link PayNow to Your NRIC: This is the fastest way to get your cash component. Do it through your bank’s mobile app.
- File and Declare Income Early: SEPs must declare income to IRAS and fulfill MediSave obligations. Early submission ensures timely payouts.
- Track Your Workfare Disbursement Dates:
- Employees: Expect March 2026 for work done in 2025
- Platform Workers: Expect monthly payouts starting January 2025
FAQs On Singapore’s Workfare 2025
Is there a need to apply for Workfare?
No application is required. If you meet the criteria, payouts are automatic, based on your CPF and IRAS records.
Can I still qualify if I work multiple part-time jobs?
Yes. Your combined gross monthly income is assessed. Just make sure CPF contributions are made.
What happens if I miss CPF or MediSave contributions?
You may miss your payout for that period. Always check with your employer or make top-ups if you’re self-employed.
Can I backdate a missed payout?
You may submit an appeal for a missed payment if you were eligible. Visit cpf.gov.sg or call the CPF Board.
Are WIS payouts taxable?
No. WIS payouts are not considered taxable income.
