Owning a home in Singapore remains a significant milestone for many citizens, but the high property prices—especially in the HDB resale market—can be daunting. To help ease this financial burden, the Singapore government offers a range of housing grants through the Central Provident Fund (CPF) to support first-time homebuyers and existing HDB owners looking to upgrade.
As of 2025, recent policy updates have made these grants even more substantial, especially for families and singles in the lower- to middle-income bracket. Below, we explain everything you need to know about the CPF Housing Grant system, the changes introduced in 2024–2025, eligibility rules, application steps, and how much support you could receive.
Table of Contents
What Is the CPF Housing Grant?
The CPF Housing Grant is a financial subsidy from the Singapore government to reduce the cost of buying an HDB flat. It is credited directly to a buyer’s CPF Ordinary Account and used to offset the purchase price of either a new Build-To-Order (BTO) flat or a resale flat.
The purpose is to help citizens—especially those with lower or middle incomes—achieve affordable homeownership, whether they are starting out or planning to upgrade their existing living arrangements.
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main CPF Housing Grants | Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG), Resale Grant, Proximity Grant, Step-Up Grant |
| Maximum for Families | Up to S$120,000 (EHG) + Resale + Proximity = up to S$230,000 total |
| Maximum for Singles | Up to S$60,000 (EHG) + Resale + Proximity = up to S$115,000 total |
| Income Eligibility (Families) | Up to S$14,000 monthly (varies by grant type) |
| Income Eligibility (Singles) | Up to S$7,000 monthly (varies by grant type) |
| Application Requirement | Must apply with HFE letter before booking a flat |
| Official Website | https://www.hdb.gov.sg |
Key CPF Housing Grants Available in 2025
There are four primary CPF Housing Grants available in 2025. These grants vary in terms of eligibility, value, and intended usage:
1. Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG)
Designed for first-time buyers of either BTO or resale flats, the EHG supports both families and singles.
Eligibility & Amounts:
- Families with monthly income ≤ S$9,000: up to S$120,000
- Singles with income ≤ S$4,500: up to S$60,000
- Applicants must be employed continuously for 12 months prior to application.
- The flat’s lease must cover the youngest buyer till at least age 95.
The EHG is tiered, meaning lower-income households get more, and the amount reduces gradually for higher earners within the eligibility cap.
2. CPF Housing Grant for Resale Flats
This grant is applicable only for first-time HDB resale flat buyers.
Grant Amounts:
- Families:
- S$80,000 for 2- to 4-room flats
- S$50,000 for 5-room or larger flats
- Singles:
- S$40,000 for 2- to 4-room
- S$25,000 for 5-room or larger
Income limits:
- Families: Up to S$14,000 per month
- Singles: Up to S$7,000 per month
3. Proximity Housing Grant (PHG)
To encourage intergenerational living or closeness to family, the PHG benefits buyers who choose to live with or near their parents or children.
Grant Amounts:
- Families:
- S$30,000 if living together
- S$20,000 if living within 4 km
- Singles:
- S$15,000 if living together
- S$10,000 if within 4 km
There is no income cap for this grant, but it is only for resale flat purchases.
4. Step-Up CPF Housing Grant
This grant is meant for current flat owners upgrading from smaller HDB units in non-mature estates.
Eligibility & Amount:
- Must be moving from a 2-room to a 3-room flat
- Household income should be S$7,000 or below
- Grant value: S$15,000
This is particularly helpful for families starting small who want to gradually transition to a larger home.
How to Apply for CPF Housing Grants
To receive CPF housing grants, follow this procedure:
Check Eligibility
- Ensure you meet income, employment, and citizenship requirements.
- Must be a first-time buyer for most grants.
Apply for HFE Letter
- You must obtain a HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter before you can book a BTO or resale flat.
- Choose Your Flat
- Decide between a BTO or resale unit.
- Factor in whether you’re living near or with family.
Submit Grant Application
- During your flat booking or resale application, indicate the grants you’re applying for.
- Provide necessary documents such as payslips or CPF contribution history.
Why CPF Housing Grants Matter
CPF housing grants are an essential tool in making homeownership attainable for a wider group of Singaporeans. Whether you’re a:
- Young couple starting out
- Single person gaining independence
- Existing owner seeking to upgrade
These grants lower your upfront financial burden and provide flexibility in choosing flat size, location, and tenure. The 2025 enhancements make the system more responsive to current housing needs and market pressures.
FAQs
1. Do I need to apply separately for each CPF Housing Grant?
A = No. You indicate all eligible grants in one application when you book your flat.
2. Can singles receive all the same grants as families?
A = Yes, but in smaller amounts and only if they meet specific eligibility conditions.
3. Is there an income ceiling for every CPF housing grant?
A = No. Some grants, like the Proximity Housing Grant, have no income cap.
4. Where do I apply for the CPF Housing Grant?
A = Start by applying for the HFE letter via HDB’s official website, then follow the application process.
