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 Workfare Skills Support (WSS) scheme is a Singapore government initiative that encourages lower-wage workers to upgrade their skills through training support and financial incentives. It complements the Workfare Income ...
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.
To combat the rising cost of living, Singapore continues to provide strong financial assistance through the U-Save Rebate scheme. This quarterly rebate of up to $190 helps lower- and middle-income households reduce their electricity, water, and gas expenses directly through their SP Services accounts. The program, part of the GST Voucher (GSTV) and Assurance Package, supports over 950,000 households across various types of HDB flats in 2025.
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 Institute of Technical Education (ITE) Monthly Financial Assistance Scheme (MFAS) is a targeted support program in Singapore that provides monthly cash aid to full-time ITE students from lower-income families. This scheme aims to ease financial stress arising from daily living expenses such as meals, transport, and learning materials. Supported by funding partners such as the Temasek Foundation, MFAS ensures that financial difficulties do not disrupt a student’s educational journey.
