As Singapore continues to enhance its support systems for lower-income citizens, the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme has emerged as a vital initiative, especially in 2025. This year, the scheme sees a significant boost, offering eligible self-employed Singaporeans aged 60 and above up to $3,267 annually. With the rising cost of living and growing concerns over retirement adequacy, this supplement aims to ease financial pressure while strengthening long-term savings and healthcare stability.
Understanding the Enhanced Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)
The Workfare Income Supplement is not a new program, but its 2025 enhancements mark a notable step forward in Singapore’s social safety net. The revised payout structure allocates 10% of the amount in cash and 90% into MediSave, thereby ensuring that recipients receive both immediate financial assistance and long-term medical savings. This dual approach is especially important for older self-employed individuals who may not enjoy the same CPF contributions as employees. The supplement reflects the government’s commitment to both income support and retirement planning.
Eligibility Criteria for Receiving the $3,267 Supplement
To benefit from the 2025 WIS, self-employed Singaporeans must meet specific criteria. Applicants must be Singapore citizens and at least 30 years of age, although individuals with disabilities can qualify regardless of age. The income threshold requires a monthly average between $500 and $3,000. In addition, applicants must declare their net trade income with IRAS and make MediSave contributions accordingly. Property ownership is also a factor only those owning no more than one property with an annual value under $21,000 can qualify. For married individuals, the spouse’s assessable income must not exceed $70,000 annually, and the couple must not own more than one property together.
How Much Support Can You Expect from WIS in 2025?
The exact amount a recipient receives depends on age and income level. Those aged 60 and above or with disabilities can receive the maximum annual payout of $3,267. Younger age brackets receive smaller amounts, starting from $1,020 for individuals in their early 30s and scaling up gradually. This tiered structure ensures that support is proportional to both income and retirement proximity. Importantly, the majority of the payout being channeled to MediSave reflects a strong emphasis on bolstering healthcare and long-term financial resilience.
Steps to Apply for the WIS Supplement
Applying for WIS as a self-employed person in 2025 involves a few clear steps. The first requirement is to declare your Net Trade Income to IRAS, which can be done through the myTax Portal or CPF e-Services. Once declared, you are obligated to contribute to your MediSave account based on that income. These contributions are necessary to trigger the Workfare payout. Eligibility can be checked online using the CPF WIS Eligibility Checker, and once approved, payments will be made quarterly partly in cash to your bank account and mostly into your MediSave.
Why the WIS Supplement Matters for Retirement and Healthcare Security
The increased WIS payout is more than just a short-term financial boost it serves as a strategic tool to enhance the retirement and medical preparedness of Singapore’s lower-income and older workers. For many self-employed individuals who lack access to employer-provided benefits, this supplement acts as a bridge toward a more secure future. The heavy emphasis on MediSave also ensures that healthcare costs often a concern for aging individuals can be more comfortably managed over time.
Take Action to Secure Your Benefits
If you meet the eligibility requirements, now is the time to act. Declare your income, fulfill your MediSave contributions, and check your qualification status. With financial support like the WIS, eligible Singaporeans can gain not only immediate relief but also a stronger foundation for retirement and healthcare needs. For more information and application support, the official CPF website remains the most reliable resource to guide you through the process.
