Singapore’s enhanced Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme and MediSave benefits provide crucial financial support to lower-income workers, offering both immediate cash assistance and long-term healthcare savings. With significant improvements taking effect in 2025, eligible Singaporeans can now access higher payouts and expanded coverage to help build financial security.
Understanding the Enhanced Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) 2025
The Workfare Income Supplement has undergone substantial enhancements this year, making it more accessible and beneficial for working Singaporeans. The qualifying monthly wage cap has been raised from $2,500 to $3,000, taking into account wage growth of Singaporeans. This expansion means more workers can now qualify for this valuable support scheme.
Eligible employees can receive up to $4,900 per year in payments, compared to $4,200 per year previously. The scheme specifically targets workers who continue to contribute to Singapore’s workforce while building their retirement savings through the Central Provident Fund (CPF) system.
WIS Payment Structure and Distribution!
The payment structure varies depending on your employment status. Employees receive 40% of their WIS in cash and 60% in CPF contributions, while self-employed persons receive 10% in cash and 90% in their MediSave account. This distribution ensures both immediate financial relief and long-term healthcare security.
Cash portions are credited to PayNow NRIC-linked bank accounts, or to registered bank accounts for Government benefits. For those without registered accounts, payments are processed through GovCash, ensuring no eligible worker is excluded from receiving their benefits.
2025 MediSave Bonus for Healthcare Security
Beyond the regular WIS scheme, eligible Singapore Citizens born between 1950 and 1973 with lower MediSave savings will receive a one-time $500 MediSave Bonus in 2025. This targeted support helps older Singaporeans build their healthcare reserves during their later working years and early retirement.
Payment Schedule and Timing
The timing of your WIS payments depends on your employment category. Employees receive monthly payments with a two-month processing delay, meaning January’s work results in payments received by the end of March. Self-employed persons receive WIS annually, with the earliest payment by end April of the following work year, provided income declarations and MediSave contributions are completed by March 31.
Starting in 2025, platform workers benefit from a significant improvement. From 2025, eligible platform workers will receive WIS monthly instead of annually, as platform operators will deduct CPF contributions monthly.
WIS Payment Amounts by Age Group!
| Age Group | Maximum Annual WIS (2025) | Payment Split |
|---|---|---|
| 35-44 years | Up to $3,200 | 40% cash, 60% CPF |
| 45-54 years | Up to $4,200 | 40% cash, 60% CPF |
| 55-59 years | Up to $4,600 | 40% cash, 60% CPF |
| 60+ years & PWDs | Up to $4,900 | 40% cash, 60% CPF |
Note: Self-employed persons receive two-thirds of employee amounts
How to Ensure You Receive Your Benefits
Accessing your WIS and MediSave benefits requires minimal action on your part, as eligibility is assessed automatically based on employment income and CPF contributions. However, you should ensure your bank account details are current and linked to your NRIC through PayNow for seamless payments.
For self-employed individuals, timely income declaration to IRAS and MediSave contributions are crucial. The earlier you declare your income and make the required MediSave contribution, the sooner you will receive your WIS.
Eligibility Requirements!
To qualify for WIS, you must be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, currently employed or self-employed, earning an average gross monthly income not exceeding $3,000, and living in a property with annual value below $21,000. For married individuals, spousal assessable income must not exceed $70,000.
The enhanced Workfare scheme represents Singapore’s commitment to supporting working families while encouraging continued workforce participation. By combining immediate cash support with long-term savings contributions, these benefits create a comprehensive safety net for lower-income workers navigating today’s economic challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will I receive my WIS payment? Employees receive monthly payments two months after work is performed, while self-employed persons receive annual payments by end-April if requirements are met by March 31.
2. Can I receive both WIS and MediSave Bonus? Yes, these are separate schemes and you can qualify for both if you meet the respective eligibility criteria.
3. How do I update my bank details for payments? Log into CPF e-Services with your Singpass or link your NRIC to PayNow for automatic payments to your preferred bank account.