The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a key government initiative designed to improve the income stability and retirement adequacy of lower-wage Singaporeans. For self-employed persons (SEPs), WIS provides annual cash and MediSave payouts based on declared earnings and contributions, ensuring that freelancers and small business owners receive fair support.
Singapore has enhanced its Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme, raising the maximum annual payout for employees to SGD 4,900 from 2025. The update strengthens financial assistance for lower-wage Singaporeans, encouraging continued employment and ensuring workers build sufficient CPF savings for long-term stability.
The Silver Support Scheme (SS) is a financial assistance program designed to enhance the retirement income of Singapore’s lower-income seniors. In 2025, the scheme underwent significant improvements, including higher payout amounts and expanded eligibility. Covering around 290,000 citizens aged 65 and above, it ensures that elderly Singaporeans with modest resources receive regular cash support automatically every quarter.
Government bursaries for higher education provide vital financial support to students from lower and middle-income families, enabling access to tertiary education without financial strain. These non-repayable awards help cover tuition and living expenses. This article examines Singapore’s model, focusing on its structure, eligibility criteria, application process, and the broader impact of these bursaries on national human capital.
The SG60 ActiveSG Credit Top-Up is a nationwide initiative celebrating Singapore's 60 years of progress by promoting fitness and community participation. It provides Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with credits of up to S$200 to encourage sports engagement through MyActiveSG+. This program aims to make active living more affordable and supports a healthier, more inclusive society.
Singapore has launched the $60 Public Transport Voucher Exercise 2025 to help lower-income households cope with fare hikes. Eligible families can apply from 14 January to 31 October 2025 to use vouchers for fare card top-ups or monthly passes.
PioneerDAS offers S$100 monthly cash assistance to Singapore’s Pioneers who require help with at least three daily living activities, regardless of income. This support complements other long‑term care schemes and empowers recipients to manage care costs.
