As part of its ongoing commitment to inclusive growth and social equity, Singapore has announced sweeping updates to the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme in 2025. These enhancements are designed to provide stronger financial support, especially in the face of rising inflation and cost-of-living challenges.
With increased payouts, broader eligibility, and more frequent disbursements, the revamped WIS aims to uplift lower-wage workers and ensure they are not left behind in the country’s economic progress.
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What Is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
Launched in 2007, the WIS is a financial support scheme aimed at supplementing the incomes and CPF savings of lower-wage workers. It rewards regular employment and encourages savings for retirement by offering both cash payouts and CPF top-ups.
The 2025 changes reflect Singapore’s evolving labour landscape and the need to cushion lower-income earners against economic pressures. These reforms also better recognise the needs of gig workers and the disabled—ensuring fairness and inclusivity in the nation’s workforce policies.
Higher Payouts in 2025:
Starting January 2025, eligible workers will receive increased payouts under the enhanced WIS. The maximum payout per year is now S$4,900, up from S$4,200 previously.
Who Benefits the Most?
- Older workers (aged 60 and above) continue to receive the highest tier of support.
- Persons with disabilities (PWDs) remain a priority group under the scheme.
- Workers earning less than the monthly ceiling (now S$3,000) will receive larger amounts, scaled based on age and income.
This update is a targeted response to rising expenses, giving beneficiaries more meaningful assistance to meet daily needs while encouraging continued employment.
Eligibility Criteria
To make WIS more inclusive, the monthly income threshold has been raised from S$2,500 to S$3,000. This adjustment is crucial as it ensures that workers whose incomes have slightly increased are not disqualified from essential support.
New Eligibility Scope:
- Platform workers (e.g., food delivery riders, ride-hailing drivers)
- Freelancers contributing to CPF
- Workers with disabilities
- Older Singaporeans in part-time or casual jobs
This wider net reflects a fairer understanding of Singapore’s changing work patterns and supports those who are often overlooked in traditional schemes.
Monthly Payouts for Platform Workers
In one of the most significant updates, platform workers will now receive WIS payouts on a monthly basis, rather than the previous annual disbursement. This change starts from March 2025, in line with the introduction of mandatory CPF contributions for these workers.
Why This Matters:
- Monthly payments provide faster financial relief.
- Helps gig workers better manage short-term expenses.
- Aligns with monthly CPF deductions, reinforcing savings discipline.
As gig economy roles continue to expand, this shift acknowledges their legitimacy and affirms the state’s intention to support all forms of work equally.
Cash + CPF: Supporting Today and Tomorrow
The WIS payout remains a dual-disbursement model—part in cash, part into CPF MediSave. This arrangement supports both immediate needs and future healthcare or retirement savings.
Typical WIS Distribution:
- 60% Cash: Sent to recipient’s bank account for day-to-day expenses.
- 40% CPF: Credited to MediSave, enhancing long-term financial health.
This balance ensures that workers are protected not just now but as they grow older—meeting both their current and future needs.
How to Qualify for WIS in 2025
The government has simplified eligibility checks, and qualifying is largely automatic through CPF and IRAS data. However, platform workers must ensure they are contributing CPF regularly to remain eligible.
General Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: At least 30 years old for employees, 35 years for self-employed.
- Citizenship: Must be a Singapore citizen.
- Employment: Regular work with CPF contributions or official self-employed status.
- Income: Gross monthly income of $3,000 or less.
- Assets: Must not own more than one property.
For self-employed persons, mandatory CPF contributions are required for payout eligibility.
Long-Term Impact
The WIS 2025 overhaul is not just a technical update—it represents a vision for shared progress. As Singapore’s economy evolves, so too must its safety nets. The government is sending a powerful message that every worker deserves dignity, support, and a secure future.
An estimated 470,000 workers are set to benefit from the new scheme. These include seniors in low-wage jobs, gig workers navigating income volatility, and people with disabilities facing job challenges.
By raising payouts, broadening access, and offering regular payments, the scheme is laying stronger foundations for inclusive prosperity.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 updates to Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement scheme show the nation’s commitment to inclusive support. With higher payouts, broader eligibility, and monthly aid for gig workers and PWDs, WIS now offers timely help and long-term security. It reflects Singapore’s vision of shared growth where no worker is left behind.
FAQs
1. When do the 2025 WIS monthly payouts start?
A = Monthly payouts for platform workers begin in March 2025.
2. What is the new income ceiling for WIS eligibility?
A = The gross monthly income limit is now S$3,000.
3. Do I need to apply for WIS every year?
A = No. If you meet the criteria, you’ll automatically qualify based on CPF and income data.
