Ashley
In May 2025, the Singapore government will disburse a one-off Cost-of-Living (COL) Special Payment ranging from $200 to $400 to eligible adult Singapore citizens.
This initiative, part of the Budget 2025 Assurance Package (AP), aims to alleviate the financial pressures of rising living costs and inflation. Approximately 2.5 million Singaporeans are expected to benefit from this scheme.
Eligibility Criteria for the COL Special Payment
To qualify for the $200–$400 COL Special Payment, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Citizenship: Must be a Singapore citizen residing in Singapore.
- Age: At least 21 years old in 2025.
- Assessable Income: Not exceeding $100,000 for the Year of Assessment 2024 (income earned in 2023).
- Property Ownership: Must not own more than one property.
The payment amount is determined based on the individual’s Assessable Income (AI) and property ownership status.
Payment Amounts Based on Income
The COL Special Payment amounts vary according to the recipient’s Assessable Income:
| Assessable Income (AI) | Payment Amount |
|---|---|
| Up to $22,000 | $400 |
| $22,001 – $34,000 | $300 |
| $34,001 – $100,000 | $200 |
Note: Individuals owning more than one property are not eligible for this payment.
Additional Support Measures in Budget 2025
Beyond the COL Special Payment, Budget 2025 introduces several other support measures:
1. Community Development Council (CDC) Vouchers
- Total Amount: $800 per Singaporean household.
- Disbursement: $500 in May 2025 and $300 in January 2026.
- Usage: Vouchers can be used at participating merchants, hawker stalls, and supermarkets.
2. U-Save Rebates
- Eligibility: Singaporean households living in HDB flats with no more than one property.
- Total Rebate: Up to $760 in Financial Year 2025.
- Disbursement: Rebates will be credited in April and October 2025.
3. LifeSG Credits
- Amount: $500 per Singaporean child aged 12 and below.
- Purpose: To assist families with young children in managing daily expenses.
Budget 2025 Support Measures
| Support Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| COL Special Payment | $200–$400 one-off payment based on income and property ownership. |
| CDC Vouchers | $800 total; $500 in May 2025 and $300 in January 2026. |
| U-Save Rebates | Up to $760 for eligible HDB households; disbursed in April and October 2025. |
| LifeSG Credits | $500 per child aged 12 and below to assist with daily expenses. |
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official Singapore government websites and announcements.
FAQs
How will I receive the COL Special Payment?
Eligible recipients will have the payment credited directly to their designated bank accounts.
Do I need to apply for the COL Special Payment?
No application is necessary. If you meet the eligibility criteria, the payment will be automatically disbursed to you.
Where can I check my eligibility status?
You can verify your eligibility by logging into the official government portal at govbenefits.gov.sg.