The Government of Singapore has introduced stronger financial support for senior citizens through the Silver Support (SS) Scheme. This initiative ensures that elderly Singaporeans with little or no family support or savings can still live with dignity during their retirement years. The scheme has been in place since 2016 but has been further upgraded in 2025.
This year, the government has increased the quarterly payout amounts, with eligible seniors now receiving up to $1,080 every three months. These payments are aimed at those who had low incomes during their working years and now face challenges in retirement. The additional support can go a long way in covering basic living expenses such as food, medicine, and transport.
With no need to apply, the scheme runs automatically, assessing eligibility using information already available in government records. Nearly 290,000 Singaporeans aged 65 and above stand to benefit from this support in 2025. The goal is simple: to give more peace of mind to elderly citizens and help them enjoy their golden years with less financial worry.
How the Silver Support Scheme Assists Seniors
The Silver Support (SS) Scheme is one of the many ways Singapore helps seniors live more comfortably. It gives direct cash support every quarter to seniors who earned less during their working life and now have limited retirement savings. This is not just a benefit—it is a reassurance that the country values and supports its elderly.
This scheme complements other retirement schemes like CPF (Central Provident Fund) and ComCare. It is meant to top up the income of older citizens so they don’t fall behind in their daily needs. Seniors do not have to apply; if they meet the set conditions, the support arrives automatically.
What’s New in 2025
In 2025, the payout amounts under the SS Scheme have increased. The government has raised the payment levels to give better help to those with the least resources. This change affects almost 290,000 elderly Singaporeans.
The maximum benefit now stands at $1,080 per quarter for seniors living in smaller flats with very low household income. This enhancement shows the government’s continued effort to improve retirement support in line with rising living costs.
Who Can Receive This Benefit?
There are three main conditions to receive the Silver Support payout. These are checked automatically by the government using existing data:
Low CPF Contributions
- If a senior’s total CPF contributions by the age of 55 are $140,000 or less, they may be eligible.
- For self-employed people or platform workers, the average annual income between the ages of 45 to 54 must be $27,600 or less.
Living in Smaller HDB Flats
- The senior should live in a 1- to 5-room HDB flat.
- Neither the senior nor their spouse should own a private property, a 5-room or larger HDB flat, or multiple properties.
Low Household Income
- The monthly household income per person should not exceed $2,300.
The Government checks eligibility every year. If a person qualifies, they will get a notification letter in December. Payments begin in the quarter in which they turn 65, or in January for those already above 65 and newly eligible.
How Much Will You Get Each Quarter?
The quarterly payment is based on two things:
- The size of your flat
- Your household income per person
Here is the latest payment structure for 2025:
Silver Support Payment Table (Quarterly Amount in SGD)
| Flat Type | Income ≤ $1,500 per person | Income $1,501–$2,300 per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1- and 2-room | $1,080 | $540 |
| 3-room | $860 | $430 |
| 4-room | $650 | $325 |
| 5-room | $430 | $215 |
Note: Those receiving ComCare Long-Term Assistance will get a fixed $430 per quarter, regardless of housing or income.
When Will the Payments Arrive?
Payments are made every three months, depending on when a senior turns 65 and remains eligible. Here’s the schedule:
Quarterly Payment Timeline
| Eligibility Period | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Jan – Mar | 31 December (previous year) |
| Apr – Jun | 31 March |
| Jul – Sep | 30 June |
| Oct – Dec | 30 September |
How to Receive Your Money
Eligible seniors will receive the cash without needing to apply. Based on what information is available, the payment will be sent in one of the following ways:
- If You Have PayNow linked to your NRIC: The money will be credited directly to your PayNow-NRIC-linked bank account.
- If You Don’t have PayNow but have a Known Bank Account: The payment will be sent to the bank account provided earlier (DBS, OCBC, UOB, etc.).
- If You Haven’t Registered Any Bank Account: You will receive your support through GovCash.
Need Help or Have Questions?
If any senior is unsure about their eligibility or how the scheme works, they can reach out:
- Silver Support Hotline: 1800 227 1188
(Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM) - Email: Write in to the CPF Board for questions.
- Visit: Nearest Social Service Office for help if facing financial problems.