Amidst increasing digital transformation and workforce changes, Singapore has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to support its unemployed citizens. Launching in April 2025, the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme offers eligible Singaporeans up to S$6,000 in financial assistance while encouraging skill development and active job searching. This progressive move demonstrates the government’s commitment to helping individuals regain their footing in a challenging employment landscape.
How the $6,000 Support Program Works
The new SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme is more than a temporary relief measure. It is carefully designed to provide both immediate financial support and long-term career development. Eligible individuals can receive monthly payouts for up to six months, provided they actively participate in job search activities and skill-enhancing programs. By combining monetary support with structured career-building efforts, Singapore ensures that unemployed citizens are not left behind during times of transition.
Key Features and Timeline of the SkillsFuture Scheme
Under the new program, participants can receive S$1,500 in the first month, S$1,250 in the second, S$1,000 in the third, and S$750 for each of the following three months. To qualify, applicants must be Singapore citizens aged 21 or above, have earned an average monthly income of S$5,000 or less in the past year, and reside in properties valued under S$31,000 annually. Applicants must also demonstrate at least six months of employment in the past year and be involuntarily unemployed. The application portal officially opened on April 15, 2025.
Who Qualifies for the $6,000 Jobseeker Grant?
To benefit from this support, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. They must be unemployed for at least one month, not have claimed from the scheme within the last three years, and must demonstrate involuntary unemployment due to retrenchment, company closure, or medical dismissal. A special one-time concession allows those who lost their jobs between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, to apply even if they do not meet the six-month employment requirement, provided they apply by June 15, 2025.
How Monthly Payouts Are Structured for Maximum Impact
Rather than a flat payment, the SkillsFuture grant follows a decreasing payout structure. This model incentivizes early re-entry into the workforce by offering higher amounts initially and gradually reducing payouts over six months. The maximum payout possible is S$6,000, though it is capped by the recipient’s previous average monthly earnings. This approach motivates jobseekers to find new employment opportunities while still offering meaningful financial support during the transition.
Maintaining Eligibility Through Activity Points
Participants must remain engaged in job search and upskilling activities to continue receiving their monthly payouts. During the first three months, jobseekers must accumulate 10 activity points per month, reducing to 5 points per month for the final three months. Activities such as attending job interviews, participating in career coaching sessions, joining resume clinics, and completing SkillsFuture-accredited courses all contribute to these points. All activities must be logged and submitted through the official online portal to ensure continued eligibility.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the $6,000 Grant
Applying for the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme is straightforward. Interested individuals should visit the official portal at go.gov.sg/jobseekersupport and prepare documents such as their retrenchment letter, recent payslips or CPF contribution records, proof of residence, and any relevant medical documents. After submitting their application, applicants can expect a processing time of approximately 10 working days, with notifications delivered via email or SMS. It is essential to track and upload job-seeking activities monthly to maintain grant eligibility.
Clara’s Journey to a New Career
Clara, a 36-year-old marketing executive who faced retrenchment in early 2025, is a shining example of the scheme’s success. After applying for the grant in April, she quickly began accumulating points through job interviews and resume clinics. Within three months, Clara received more than S$4,000 in support while undergoing training in digital marketing. Her story highlights how the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme can transform setbacks into new beginnings with financial support and structured guidance.
