In Singapore’s bustling gig economy, a new financial lifeline has arrived for those who work as drivers, food delivery riders, and freelancers. The government has supercharged its Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme for 2025, offering eligible workers a yearly boost of up to $3,267. This isn’t just about extra cash; it’s a game-changer for financial stability and future planning.
This enhanced scheme is designed to do more than just top up your take-home pay. It’s also about building a solid foundation for your future by helping you grow your Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings. Think of it as a dual benefit: a helping hand today, and a safety net for tomorrow, covering your housing, healthcare, and retirement needs.
Why WIS Is a Big Deal in 2025
For many platform workers and freelancers, a rising cost of living and unpredictable income can be a huge challenge. The 2025 WIS scheme provides a much-needed sense of security with predictable monthly income and mandatory CPF savings. This is the government’s way of bringing gig workers into the national social safety net, ensuring they can save consistently for a more stable future.
Key Upgrades to the 2025 WIS Scheme
Gone are the days of waiting for a single yearly payout. The new scheme introduces several key improvements:
- Monthly Payments: Instead of one lump sum, you’ll now receive your payout every month. The cash will be credited two months after the work month, so income from January will land in your account by the end of March.
- Mandatory CPF Contributions: Starting in 2025, companies like Grab and Foodpanda must begin contributing to their workers’ CPF accounts. This will be fully implemented by 2029 and will be split into three key accounts:
- Ordinary Account: For your housing needs.
- Special Account: For your retirement savings.
- MediSave: For healthcare expenses.
- Higher Payouts: Workers aged 60 and above, as well as those with disabilities, will receive the maximum annual payout of $3,267, acknowledging the unique financial challenges they often face.
Do You Qualify for the $3,267 WIS Payout?
To be eligible for this boost, you must meet all the following conditions:
- Be a Singapore Citizen aged 30 or older. (This age requirement doesn’t apply to persons with disabilities.)
- Earn a gross annual income of $28,000 or less.
- Have worked for at least two months in 2024.
- Have made all the required CPF and MediSave contributions.
However, you will not be eligible if:
- Your property’s annual value is more than $13,000.
- Your annual assessable income is above $70,000.
- You are under 30 and are not a person with a disability.
2025 Payouts at a Glance
The amount you receive depends on your age, with older workers and those with disabilities getting the highest payouts.
Age Group | Max Annual Payout | Cash Component | CPF Component |
30–34 | $1,700 | $300 | $1,400 |
35–44 | $2,250 | $450 | $1,800 |
45–54 | $2,850 | $600 | $2,250 |
55–59 | $3,150 | $750 | $2,400 |
60+ / PWD | $3,267 | $800 | $2,467 |
Getting Your WIS: The To-Do List
To make sure you get your full benefits, follow these simple steps:
- Declare Your Income: Use the IRAS myTax Portal to declare your Net Trade Income.
- Check Your CPF: Ensure your platform operator is correctly deducting and contributing to your CPF.
- Make MediSave Contributions: If you’re self-employed, make sure you meet the minimum MediSave contributions.
- Track Your Payouts: Your monthly payments will be sent directly to your PayNow account or via GovCash. You can also use the CPF WIS Calculator to estimate your exact payout.
By staying on top of these requirements, you can make the most of this enhanced scheme and build a more secure future, one monthly payout at a time!