In a bold move to uplift lower-wage workers and promote inclusive growth, the Singapore Government has introduced a new Workfare Bonus scheme for 2025, offering payouts of up to S$2,800. This enhanced initiative targets both employees and self-employed individuals, rewarding sustained employment while boosting CPF savings and take-home income. With automatic disbursement and expanded age-based support tiers, the bonus is part of Singapore’s broader efforts to reduce income inequality and support economic mobility — especially for older workers and those in essential services.
Overview
| Scheme Name | Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Bonus 2025 |
|---|---|
| Announced By | Ministry of Finance & Ministry of Manpower (Singapore) |
| Bonus Amount | Up to S$2,800 annually (including enhancements) |
| Eligible Groups | Lower-wage employees and self-employed persons (SEPs) |
| Disbursement Period | Quarterly and Annual Payments, starting August 2025 |
| Part of | Enhanced Workfare and Progressive Wage initiatives |
Key Objectives of the New Workfare Bonus
The 2025 Workfare Bonus is part of the Government’s broader strategy to uplift lower-income workers, ensure fair wages, and encourage continued employment among older Singaporeans.
Key goals include:
- Enhancing take-home pay for low-wage workers
- Encouraging CPF savings for long-term retirement security
- Promoting sustained workforce participation among older workers
- Supporting self-employed persons (SEPs) facing rising business and living costs
This initiative reflects Singapore’s commitment to an inclusive and resilient economy.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive the Workfare Bonus in 2025, workers must meet the following criteria:
| Eligibility Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be aged 35 and above (or 30 for SEPs) |
| Monthly Income | Average gross monthly income of not more than $2,500 |
| Employment Status | Full-time, part-time, or self-employed |
| Citizenship | Must be a Singapore Citizen |
| Work Activity | Must have worked and made CPF contributions |
Seniors aged 60 and above may qualify for higher payouts under enhanced Workfare tiers.
Payout Breakdown
Eligible workers will receive their bonus via cash and CPF, with the maximum bonus reaching S$2,800 annually depending on age and income.
| Age Group | Annual Bonus (Up to) | Cash Portion | CPF Portion |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35–44 years old | $1,900 | $760 | $1,140 |
| 45–59 years old | $2,400 | $960 | $1,440 |
| 60+ years old | $2,800 | $1,120 | $1,680 |
| Self-Employed (30+) | $2,100 | $840 | $1,260 |
Disbursement Timeline
The Workfare Bonus is distributed either quarterly or annually, based on the individual’s work pattern:
- Employees: Paid quarterly via GIRO or PayNow (linked to NRIC)
- Self-Employed Persons (SEPs): Paid annually in the following year, based on income declared to IRAS or CPF Board
Example Timeline for Employees:
| Work Period | Payout Month |
|---|---|
| Jan–Mar 2025 | August 2025 |
| Apr–Jun 2025 | November 2025 |
| Jul–Sep 2025 | February 2026 |
| Oct–Dec 2025 | May 2026 |
How to Check If You Qualify
You can check your Workfare Bonus status using the following methods:
- Singpass App or Website: Log in to workfare.gov.sg
- SMS Notification: Sent to eligible workers before each payment
- CPF Statement: Quarterly payouts reflected under Workfare Income Supplement section
- WIS Calculator Tool: Estimate your bonus using the official tool
No Application Required
There is no need to apply. If you meet the eligibility criteria, your Workfare bonus will be automatically credited based on CPF and IRAS records.
Note: SEPs must declare income to IRAS or make MediSave contributions by 31 March 2026 for the 2025 work year.
How This Supports the Workforce
The Workfare Bonus 2025 complements other national efforts such as:
- Progressive Wage Model (PWM) – for fair wage progression in key sectors
- SkillsFuture Initiatives – encouraging continual upskilling
- Majulah Package – additional support for older workers and retirees
Together, they help ensure upward mobility for lower-wage workers while strengthening long-term retirement adequacy.
Common Misconceptions
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| Only full-time workers qualify | ❌ Part-time workers and SEPs also qualify |
| All the bonus is in CPF | ❌ A portion is paid out in cash directly |
| Bonus requires manual application | ❌ Most eligible workers are automatically enrolled |
| The amount is fixed for everyone | ❌ The payout varies based on age, income, and work status |
Conclusion
The New Workfare Bonus in 2025 offers a vital boost to Singapore’s low-income workforce — delivering up to $2,800 in annual support. With automatic payments, increased age-based tiers, and inclusion of self-employed persons, the scheme strengthens financial resilience for those who need it most. As Singapore continues advancing toward inclusive economic growth, Workfare remains a cornerstone of fair reward for honest work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I receive Workfare if I am working part-time?
A: Yes, part-time employees are eligible if they meet income and age criteria.
Q2: What if I’m self-employed?
A: You qualify if aged 30+, declared income to IRAS, and contributed to MediSave.
Q3: How do I receive the bonus?
A: It will be credited to your bank account via GIRO or PayNow (NRIC-linked).
Q4: Will Workfare affect other benefits like GST vouchers?
A: No, Workfare is separate and will not reduce your other entitlements.
Q5: Where can I get help or clarification?
A: Visit workfare.gov.sg or call 1800-222-2888.