The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a financial assistance scheme in Singapore designed to support lower-income workers and self-employed persons (SEPs). Launched in 2007, WIS enhances financial stability by supplementing incomes and encouraging savings for retirement, healthcare, and housing. As of February 2025, the program has disbursed over S$10.5 billion, benefiting more than 1,035,000 individuals.
Singapore WIS Payment Increase 2025
| Program | Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Self-employed individuals (SEPs) and lower-income workers |
| Annual Payout (WY 2023-2024) | Up to S$2,800 |
| Annual Payout (WY 2025 onward) | Up to S$3,267 |
| Payment Components | CPF Contributions (90%), Cash Payments (10%) |
| Official Website | www.workfare.gov.sg |
Workfare Income Supplement 2025 Details
WIS provides financial assistance through CPF contributions and cash payments, helping SEPs build savings while addressing immediate financial needs.
CPF Contributions
- 90% of WIS payments are credited to CPF MediSave accounts.
- These contributions help SEPs save for retirement, medical expenses, and housing.
Cash Payments
- 10% of WIS payments are provided in cash.
- This cash component assists with daily expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities.
Work Incentives
- Encourages SEPs to make regular MediSave contributions.
- Promotes financial sustainability and long-term savings habits.
Eligibility for the WIS Program
To qualify, self-employed persons must meet specific age, income, and CPF contribution requirements.
General Requirements
- Age: At least 30 years old by December 31 of the work year.
- Income: Annual Net Trade Income (NTI) of S$30,000 or less.
- Citizenship: Must be a Singapore Citizen.
- CPF Contributions: Must contribute to MediSave regularly.
- Property Ownership: Can own only one property.
- Assessable Income: If married, spouse’s assessable income must be S$70,000 or lower.
- Property Value: From WY 2025, annual property value must not exceed S$21,000.
Special Considerations
- Individuals with disabilities or ComCare assistance may have special eligibility rules.
WIS 2025 Payment Structure
WIS ensures both long-term savings and short-term financial relief.
Breakdown of Payment Amounts
| Component | Amount (WY 2023-2024) | Amount (WY 2025 onward) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPF Contributions | S$1,800 | S$2,940 | Builds savings for future needs |
| Cash Payments | S$1,000 | S$327 | Provides immediate financial relief |
| Total | S$2,800 | S$3,267 | – |
MediSave Contribution Requirements
SEPs must make MediSave contributions to qualify for Workfare payments. These contributions ensure savings for healthcare and medical expenses.
Contribution Table by Age Group
| Age Group | Required MediSave Contribution (S$) |
|---|---|
| 30 to 34 years | 240 |
| 35 to 44 years | 270 |
| 45 to 49 years | 300 |
| 50 years and above | 315 |
SEPs earning below S$6,000 annually must still make MediSave contributions to qualify for Workfare.
How to Apply for the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)
1. Register as an SEP
- Ensure registration with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).
2. Declare Income
- Submit income declaration to IRAS during the annual tax filing period.
3. Contribute to MediSave
- Make the required MediSave contributions based on your income.
4. Receive Payments
- Once eligibility is confirmed, payments are disbursed automatically.
Payment Disbursement Timeline
Workfare payments are credited annually for the previous year’s work. The first disbursement occurs in April, provided:
- Income declaration is completed with IRAS.
- MediSave contributions are made by March 31 of the following year.
Important Deadlines
| Scenario | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Income declaration to IRAS | March 1 – April 18 |
| MediSave contributions (for earnings above S$6,000) | Within 30 days of notification |
| Final deadline for MediSave contributions | December 31, two years after WY |
Late payments may result in delayed disbursements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a financial aid program for lower-income workers and SEPs in Singapore. It provides CPF contributions and cash payments to support retirement, healthcare, and daily expenses.
2. How do I check my Workfare payment status?
You can check your Workfare payment status by visiting the official Workfare website: www.workfare.gov.sg.
3. What is the payout for WIS in 2025?
From WY 2025 onwards, eligible SEPs will receive S$3,267 annually, consisting of S$2,940 in CPF contributions and S$327 in cash.
4. Who qualifies for WIS?
Singaporeans who meet the age, income, CPF contribution, and property ownership criteria are eligible for WIS.
5. How do SEPs receive Workfare payments?
- Payments are credited automatically into CPF MediSave accounts and given as cash payouts.
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