As of March 2025, improvements to Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme promise even better support for self-employed persons (SEPs). This increase in assistance for lower-wage workers manifests the Government’s goal of social equity and economic resilience.
Enhanced Payouts: Boosting Financial Support
Starting January 1, 2025, payouts under the WIS scheme will be enhanced for all age groups. For SEPs aged 45-59 years, the maximum annual payout will increase from S$2,400 to S$2,800. Persons aged 60 years and above and persons with disabilities will enjoy an increase in maximum annual payouts from S$2,800 to S$3,267. These enhancements intend to give greater financial support to lower-wage workers, in recognition of their work contributions, and improve their living standards.
Monthly Payouts: Timely Support For Platform Workers
Another significant change being introduced to the WIS scheme is the provision for monthly payouts to eligible platform workers beginning in March 2025 for work done between January 2025 and March 2025. This provides timely support to them and allows benefits to be disbursed much like those in a regular job setting. Payments will be made according to age and income levels, with older workers and persons with disabilities eligible for larger payouts.
Eligibility Criteria: Making Support Accessible
Self-employed persons WIS eligibility must be claimed under the following conditions in 2025:
- Age: At least 30 years by December 31 of the year in which work was done, or any age for a person with disabilities.
- Income: A minimum income of S$500 a month; an average gross monthly income that cannot exceed S$3,000 for the past 12 months.
- Property Ownership: Must live in property with an annual value not exceeding S$21,000 and own not more than one property.
- Marital Property Holding: If married, then either together must not own more than one property, and the spouse’s assessable income must not exceed $70,000 in the last year.
These criteria ensure that the benefits reach those most in need of financial assistance.
Disbursement Details: Efficient Payment Mechanisms
Eligible self-employed persons like SEPs will receive 10% of their WIS in cash and 90% will be credited to their MediSave accounts. Cash will be disbursed through the bank account linked to NRIC via PayNow or through GovCash if they do not have a registered bank account. This method of allocation would thus provide immediate support to its recipients while encouraging the culture of saving for eventual healthcare needs.
Final Remarks
These imminent enhancements to the Workfare Income Supplement scheme in Singapore illustrate the resolve of the Government to assist self-employed persons and lower-wage workers. Aimed at improving the livelihoods of many Singaporeans, these increased payouts, broader eligibility, and timely disbursement of the WIS seek to nurture an inclusive and equitable society.
