Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) program continues to offer strong financial support to self-employed persons (SEPs) and platform workers. For 2025, eligible SEPs could receive up to \$2,800 in annual payments—with a portion in cash and the rest going toward MediSave.
The WIS scheme, introduced to encourage employment and retirement savings among lower-income workers, now offers some of its highest payouts yet. With rising living costs, these benefits are a critical source of support for thousands of Singaporeans working independently in sectors like delivery, ride-hailing, and freelance services.
If you’re a SEP or platform worker, here’s what you need to know to claim the maximum payout, including eligibility rules, payment timelines, and how to avoid delays.
यह भी पढ़े:
Singapore’s Retirement Age Rise 2025, How the $3300 CPF LIFE Payout Could Change Your Retirement
Understanding the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a government initiative designed to supplement the income and CPF savings of lower-wage workers, including those who are self-employed.
It provides two key benefits:
- 10% in cash, credited directly to your bank account
- 90% to your MediSave, helping you build savings for healthcare and retirement
For SEPs, the WIS payout is assessed annually based on declared income and MediSave contributions.
यह भी पढ़े:
Singapore’s $1,200 Support Package 2025, Check Eligibility, Payment Schedule and Claim Process
Workfare 2025: Maximum Annual Payouts by Age Group
Depending on your age, the maximum annual payout differs. Here’s how much you could receive:
| Age Group | Max WIS (2022) | Max WIS (2023 Onwards) |
|---|---|---|
| 30–34 years | Not applicable | \$1,400 |
| 35–44 years | \$1,133 | \$2,000 |
| 45–54 years | \$1,667 | \$2,400 |
| 55–59 years | \$2,200 | \$2,800 |
| 60 years & above | \$2,667 | \$2,800 |
These increases reflect the government’s commitment to boost retirement savings and reduce income inequality for older and lower-income Singaporeans.
How Much Cash Do You Receive? (WIS \$2,800 Breakdown)
The \$2,800 maximum payment is split into:
- Cash: 10% of \$2,800 = \$280, paid into your PayNow-linked or registered bank account
- MediSave: 90% of \$2,800 = \$2,520, credited to your MediSave account
If no bank account is linked to your CPF records, the cash portion will be paid via GovCash, accessible at OCBC ATMs using Singpass.
When Will You Receive the Payment? (2025 Schedule)
Workfare payments for SEPs are issued once a year, with the payment expected by the end of April the year after work is completed.
- Example: If you worked in 2024, your WIS payout will arrive by April 2025
- Delays may occur if income declaration or MediSave contributions are made late
To receive your payment on time, you must complete all steps related to income reporting and contributions.
Required Steps to Receive Workfare as a SEP
To qualify and receive WIS, self-employed persons must fulfill three core obligations:
1. Declare Your Income to IRAS
Declare your net trade income (NTI) for the year to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) during the annual tax season (1 March – 18 April).
This can be done via:
- IRAS e-Filing (myTax Portal)
- Physical submission (for specific cases)
Failing to declare income means no WIS payout.
2. Make Required MediSave Contributions
Once income is declared, you must contribute to MediSave based on the declared income amount.
- For work done in 2024, MediSave contributions must be made by 31 December 2025
- Contributions can be made via CPF e-Services or AXS stations
Only after contributions are verified will your WIS eligibility be confirmed.
3. Ensure Your Bank Account Details Are Updated
Make sure your CPF Board records have your updated bank account or PayNow NRIC-linked account.
Payments are made through:
- PayNow-NRIC (preferred)
- Registered bank account
- GovCash (if no banking details are available)
Updating your banking information ensures faster and error-free payouts.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadlines?
Failure to declare your income or make MediSave contributions by the required deadlines will result in:
- Delayed payment
- Loss of eligibility if deadlines pass
- Potential issues with future benefits or CPF top-ups
To avoid these issues, mark your calendar and act early during tax season.
How Workfare Helps Beyond Cash (Retirement & Healthcare Support)
The 90% MediSave contribution is a long-term investment in your future, allowing SEPs to:
- Pay for medical insurance premiums
- Cover hospitalisation bills
- Build savings for retirement health expenses
This structure encourages financial resilience while still providing immediate cash flow support through the 10% cash portion.
Singapore’s Broader Goal: Supporting Platform Workers
With more Singaporeans turning to gig work and self-employment, Workfare has expanded to include platform workers such as:
- Food delivery riders
- Ride-hailing drivers
- Freelancers in service-based industries
The updated WIS reflects a recognition of their growing role in the economy and a move to ensure inclusive social protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the maximum Workfare payout for 2025?
A: Eligible SEPs aged 55 and above can receive up to \$2,800 annually, with 10% in cash and 90% to MediSave.
Q2: When will I get my Workfare payout for 2024 work?
A: If you declare income and contribute to MediSave on time, your payment will be made by April 2025.
Q3: How do I declare my self-employed income?
A: You must declare your net trade income to IRAS between 1 March and 18 April through myTax Portal.
Q4: Is the Workfare cash payout taxable?
A: No, WIS payments are not taxable and will not affect other benefits.
Q5: Can I still get WIS if I missed the April income declaration window?
A: Late submissions may delay or disqualify you. Always declare and contribute on time to ensure payout eligibility.