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The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme in Singapore is a cornerstone of support for lower-wage workers, ensuring that employment remains rewarding while also providing long-term financial security. With the 2025 update, significant improvements have been made to the scheme. The maximum payouts have been increased to $4,900 annually, and the qualifying income ceiling has been revised upwards to cover more workers. These changes reflect the government’s commitment to uplifting the financial well-being of lower-income Singaporeans while encouraging continued workforce participation.
What is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
The WIS scheme was introduced to complement wages for workers earning lower incomes. It provides cash payments as well as contributions to the worker’s CPF accounts, helping them cover daily expenses while also building up savings for retirement, housing, and healthcare needs.
By linking payouts to CPF, WIS ensures that financial assistance is not just immediate but also sustainable, offering long-term benefits beyond the monthly income boost.
Key Changes to WIS in 2025
The 2025 updates bring two major changes that will positively impact many workers:
- Higher Payouts – Up to $4,900 Annually
The maximum annual payout under WIS has been increased from previous limits to $4,900. This includes both cash components and CPF contributions, giving workers more financial support than before. - Revised Income Ceiling
The qualifying income ceiling has been raised, meaning more workers can now benefit from the scheme. This adjustment accounts for wage growth and inflation, ensuring that those on the lower end of the income scale are not excluded from support.
These changes were made in recognition of the higher cost of living in Singapore and the need to provide meaningful assistance to lower-income earners.
Who Qualifies for WIS in 2025?
The eligibility conditions for WIS remain broadly similar but have been fine-tuned with the new ceiling:
- Age Requirement: Workers aged 30 and above will qualify. For persons with disabilities, age requirements may be lower.
- Employment Status: Both employees and self-employed individuals are eligible, as long as CPF contributions or declared income meet the scheme’s conditions.
- Income Criteria: The revised ceiling ensures that workers earning slightly above previous thresholds can now qualify. For 2025, the exact ceiling will be announced officially, but it has been raised to accommodate more workers.
- Work Requirement: A minimum number of working months per year is required to qualify for payouts.
With these changes, thousands of additional workers are expected to be eligible for WIS support in 2025.
How Much Will Workers Receive?
The exact payout depends on age, income, and whether the individual is employed or self-employed. However, with the updated maximum of $4,900 annually, the support has become much more substantial.
- Older workers generally receive higher WIS payouts, as the scheme encourages them to remain in the workforce longer.
- Self-employed individuals will also benefit, provided they make their MediSave contributions.
- Payouts are split into cash payments for daily use and CPF top-ups to secure future needs.
For example, a worker earning below the new ceiling could receive a payout that includes a few hundred dollars in cash each quarter, alongside additional CPF contributions for retirement and healthcare.
How Are Payouts Distributed?
WIS payouts are typically credited directly to the worker’s bank account (for the cash component) and to their CPF accounts (for the CPF component). Payments are made quarterly, ensuring regular support throughout the year.
For 2025, the total annual payout can reach $4,900, divided across these quarterly payments. This structure helps workers manage their expenses while steadily building savings.
Why the WIS Update Matters in 2025
The increase in payouts and revised income ceiling come at an important time. With inflation raising the cost of essentials such as food, transport, and healthcare, many lower-wage workers face greater financial pressure. The updated WIS scheme provides stronger financial relief and ensures that work remains attractive despite these challenges.
By including more workers under the scheme, the government also signals its recognition of the evolving workforce and wage landscape. It ensures that assistance remains inclusive and relevant in a changing economy.
How Self-Employed Workers Benefit
Self-employed persons, such as taxi drivers, delivery riders, and freelancers, are also covered under WIS. To qualify, they must declare their income and contribute to MediSave. Once eligible, they will enjoy the same increased payouts and CPF benefits as employees, giving them better long-term financial protection.
How to Check Eligibility and Apply
Workers can check their WIS eligibility through:
- The CPF Board website
- The Workfare portal on MyGov.sg
- The Workfare hotline or physical service centres
Employees do not usually need to apply, as their CPF contributions are automatically tracked. Self-employed individuals, however, must ensure they declare their income and MediSave contributions on time to be included.
The Broader Impact of WIS Enhancements
Beyond immediate financial support, the WIS scheme contributes to several broader goals:
- Encourages workforce participation by making lower-wage jobs more sustainable.
- Promotes financial security by channeling funds into CPF accounts.
- Supports social mobility, ensuring that lower-income workers have opportunities to improve their quality of life.
The 2025 enhancements strengthen these goals, ensuring WIS remains a vital part of Singapore’s social safety net.
Final Thoughts
The Singapore CPF WIS 2025 update is a major boost for lower-wage workers. With payouts now reaching up to $4,900 annually and a higher income ceiling, more workers than ever will benefit from the scheme. This ensures that employment remains rewarding and that workers can better cope with rising living costs.
By enhancing both immediate support and long-term savings, WIS continues to be one of the most impactful initiatives in Singapore’s social support framework. For eligible workers, the 2025 changes represent not just financial relief but also a stronger foundation for future security.