Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement 2025: Who Is Eligible And How Much You Can Get

The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme helps low-income workers in Singapore by providing cash payouts and CPF contributions. It boosts their earnings and strengthens their retirement savings. As part of Singapore’s social support system, WIS encourages people to work by rewarding their effort and improving their financial security.

In 2025, the scheme will offer more benefits. The government has raised payout amounts to give workers more financial support as living costs rise. The updated eligibility criteria will also let more people qualify, making financial aid more accessible. These improvements show Singapore’s commitment to helping low-income workers build financial stability and resilience.

What Is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme?

The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme helps low-income workers in Singapore with extra money and savings. It gives cash payouts and CPF contributions to increase their earnings and retirement funds. WIS rewards hard work, supports employment, and helps workers with lower wages.

WIS helps eligible workers in two main ways. First, it provides cash payments to cover daily expenses and household costs. Second, it adds CPF contributions to build retirement savings. Self-employed individuals receive contributions to their MediSave account to help with healthcare savings.

Who Is Eligible for WIS in 2025?

To qualify for the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme in 2025, individuals must meet government-set requirements. These rules ensure support goes to those who need it most while encouraging them to stay employed.

Eligibility Criteria

Workers must meet the following conditions to receive WIS:

• Must be a Singapore citizen.
• Must be at least 30 years old in the qualifying year.
• Must have a monthly income within the prescribed limit, ensuring that support is directed toward lower-wage earners.
• Must be employed in full-time, part-time, or self-employed work.
• Employees must make regular CPF contributions, while self-employed individuals must contribute to MediSave.

Changes in Eligibility Rules for 2025

The government has revised certain criteria to improve accessibility and increase financial support. Major updates include:

• More workers will qualify due to adjusted income ceilings.
• Greater emphasis on long-term savings and retirement security.
• Self-employed individuals will have an easier process to verify their MediSave contributions.

How Much Can You Get from WIS in 2025?

The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme gives financial support based on age, job type, and income. In 2025, the government increased payouts to help low-income workers manage rising living costs and inflation.

Breakdown of WIS Payouts

Age Groups

• Older workers receive higher payouts to support long-term financial security.
• The highest payments are given to those aged 60 and above, followed by workers in the 50–59 and 30–49 age groups.

Employment Type

• Employees receive both cash payouts and CPF contributions to boost retirement savings.
• Self-Employed Individuals receive payouts primarily through MediSave contributions, ensuring healthcare security.

Income Levels

• Payouts decrease as income rises, ensuring the most support goes to lower-wage workers.
• The maximum payout is reserved for those earning the least, with gradual reductions as income approaches the qualifying threshold.

Disbursement and Payment Structure

WIS payments are made every three months, providing steady financial support all year. Employees get their payouts through bank transfers, while self-employed individuals must contribute to MediSave before receiving their benefits.

How to Apply for WIS in 2025

The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme provides financial help with little hassle. Employees get their payouts automatically, while self-employed individuals follow a simple application process.

Automatic Crediting for Employees

Employees who qualify for WIS do not need to apply. The CPF Board automatically deposits payouts into their bank accounts. Employers’ CPF contributions confirm their employment, making the process smooth and hassle-free.

Application Process for Self-Employed Individuals

Self-employed individuals must apply to receive WIS benefits. To qualify, they must:

• Declare their annual net trade income.
• Contribute to MediSave based on their declared earnings.
• Ensure that contributions meet the required amount set by the CPF Board.

Online Application via CPF Board

Self-employed individuals can apply online through the CPF Board’s website. The portal guides them through income declaration and MediSave verification. To get full benefits, they must ensure their MediSave payments are up to date.

Why WIS Matters for Low-Income Workers

The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme helps low-income workers in Singapore build financial security. It provides cash support for daily needs and savings for the future, encouraging employment and financial independence.

Encourages Employment and Financial Independence

WIS boosts earnings to keep low-wage workers motivated to stay employed. It provides financial support without replacing wages, helping individuals become more self-sufficient while keeping stable jobs.

Provides Additional Retirement Savings

A large part of WIS payouts goes into CPF, helping employees save for retirement. These contributions ensure they have enough funds for the future, reducing financial risks after retirement. For self-employed individuals, MediSave contributions build healthcare savings, making medical care more accessible when needed.

Helps with Daily Expenses

WIS also gives cash payouts to help with daily expenses like food, transport, and household costs. Quarterly payments provide steady support, making it easier for low-income workers to manage living expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I Need to Apply for WIS?

Employees receive WIS automatically. Self-employed individuals must apply through the CPF Board and meet MediSave contribution requirements.

 How Can I Check my WIS Eligibility and Payout Details?

Visit the CPF Board’s official website or log in to your CPF account to view eligibility and payment details.

 Can I Receive WIS if I Work Part-Time?

Yes, part-time employees qualify if they meet the income and CPF contribution requirements.

Conclusion

The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme remains a vital support system for low-income workers in Singapore. WIS helps individuals manage daily expenses while securing long-term retirement savings by providing direct financial assistance and CPF contributions.

Eligible individuals should check if they qualify and make full use of WIS. The scheme boosts earnings, supports financial independence, and strengthens long-term stability. As a key part of Singapore’s social support system, it helps workers and improves economic security for those who need it most.