From 2025, employees in Singapore who qualify under the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme will be eligible to receive up to $4,900 per year in support. This marks an increase from the previous maximum of $4,200, strengthening both immediate income relief and long-term retirement savings.
The scheme, which combines cash payments and CPF contributions, is targeted at lower-wage workers aged 30 and above, as well as persons with disabilities. It is designed to boost income security while encouraging continued workforce participation. The enhancements will benefit thousands of employees who meet the updated income and property eligibility thresholds.
The WIS remains a cornerstone of Singapore’s broader strategy to address wage inequality and promote social stability. Tying payouts to active employment provides financial assistance without discouraging individuals from seeking employment.
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Singapore WIS $4,900 Payment 2025
The WIS scheme provides dual benefits: direct cash support and CPF top-ups. The cash component helps with immediate expenses such as food, bills, and transportation, while CPF contributions strengthen retirement, housing, and healthcare savings.
Employees do not need to apply for WIS separately. Payments are disbursed automatically if their CPF records show they meet the eligibility criteria. This system ensures transparency, reduces administrative burden, and guarantees timely crediting of support.
Eligibility Criteria for Employees
The scheme targets Singaporeans who meet specific age, income, and property requirements. As of 2025, the revised eligibility rules make more workers eligible for support.
- Must be a Singapore Citizen.
- Must be aged 30 years and above by 31 December of the work year.
- Must earn a gross monthly income of at least $500 and not more than $3,000.
- Must have an average gross monthly income of not more than $3,000 over the past 12 months.
- Must live in a property with an annual value not exceeding $21,000.
- Must not own more than one property. For married workers, the couple together cannot own more than one property, and the spouse’s assessable income must not exceed $70,000.
Special Concessions
Workers with disabilities, caregivers of severely disabled individuals, and ComCare recipients can qualify under concessionary rules. For these groups, the $500 minimum income requirement does not apply, ensuring inclusivity.
Payout Amounts by Age Group
The payouts vary by age to reflect the different financial needs of employees across life stages. Older workers and persons with disabilities receive the highest levels of support.
| Age Group | Maximum Annual Payout (2023) | Maximum Annual Payout (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 30–34 | $2,100 | $2,450 |
| 35–44 | $3,000 | $3,500 |
| 45–59 | $3,600 | $4,200 |
| 60 & above / Persons with Disabilities | $4,200 | $4,900 |
This table shows the increase across all categories, with the largest boost going to employees aged 60 and above, as well as those with disabilities.
How Payments Are Disbursed
Payments are credited in two forms:
- Cash Payment: Deposited directly into the employee’s bank account to provide immediate income support.
- CPF Contribution: Added to the CPF account to boost retirement savings, housing affordability, and healthcare protection.
This structure strikes a balance between present-day financial needs and long-term planning. It also ensures that employees maintain adequate CPF balances while benefiting from cash relief.
Enhancements from 2025
The upcoming revisions to the WIS programme are among the most significant in recent years. They include:
- Raising the income ceiling from $2,500 to $3,000.
- Increasing the property value cap from $13,000 (before 2024) to $21,000.
- Expanding the maximum payout to $4,900 annually for the oldest group and persons with disabilities.
These adjustments broaden the coverage of WIS, ensuring that more workers remain eligible despite rising wages and property values.
Wider Impact of WIS
The WIS serves a dual role. It addresses income inequality by supplementing wages for lower-income workers and ensures retirement adequacy through CPF contributions. At the same time, it encourages employment by making payouts contingent on CPF contributions, thereby reinforcing workforce participation.
For older workers, WIS helps them stay in the labour force longer, reducing the risk of financial insecurity. For persons with disabilities, the scheme provides an equal level of support, recognising their unique challenges in sustaining regular employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum WIS payout for employees in 2025?
As of 2025, the maximum WIS payout is $4,900 per year, available to employees aged 60 and above, as well as individuals with disabilities.
Who qualifies for WIS?
Employees must be Singapore Citizens aged 30 or above, earning between $500 and $3,000 per month, and living in a property with an annual value not exceeding $21,000. They must not own more than one property.
How are WIS payments made?
Payments are automatically credited if CPF contribution records indicate eligibility. They consist of a cash portion deposited into the bank account and a CPF contribution credited into retirement savings.
What are the changes to WIS in 2025?
The income ceiling has been raised to $3,000, the property value limit to $21,000, and the maximum annual payout increased to $4,900. These changes broaden coverage and increase benefits.
Do persons with disabilities need to meet the income threshold?
No. Persons with disabilities can qualify for WIS even if their monthly income is below $500. They are entitled to the same maximum payout as older workers, which is $4,900 from 2025.