Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme continues to play a major role in supporting lower-wage workers. In 2025, the programme has been enhanced with higher income ceilings and increased payouts, offering meaningful financial assistance to both employees and self-employed persons (SEPs).
One of the most notable updates for 2025 is the maximum payout of S$3,267, available to older self-employed workers or those with disabilities. Here’s a clear breakdown of how Workfare works, who qualifies, and how the payout is structured for different worker categories.
What Is Workfare and Why It Matters in 2025?
Workfare is designed to supplement income and boost long-term savings for Singaporeans earning lower wages. It provides:
- Monthly payouts for employees
- An annual payout for self-employed persons
- A mix of cash and CPF/MediSave contributions
- Additional support for older workers and persons with disabilities
The scheme’s aim is to reward steady employment, encourage workforce participation, and enhance retirement and healthcare savings.
Who Qualifies for Workfare in 2025?
To receive WIS in 2025, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a Singapore citizen
- Be 30 years old or above (no minimum age for persons with disabilities)
- Earn a gross monthly income between S$500 and S$3,000
- Work as an employee, platform worker, or self-employed person
- Own properties within allowed limits, with household income rules applying if married
Self-employed persons must also declare their annual income and make the required MediSave contributions.
Workfare 2025 Payout Structure — What S$3,267 Represents
The S$3,267 maximum payout applies to:
- Self-employed persons aged 60 and above, or
- Self-employed individuals of any age with disabilities
This is the highest payout available under Workfare in 2025.
Below is a simplified breakdown of the maximum payout amounts for the year:
Maximum Annual Workfare Payouts (2025)
| Age Group | Employees | Self-Employed |
|---|---|---|
| 30–34 | S$2,450 | S$1,633 |
| 35–44 | S$3,500 | S$2,333 |
| 45–59 | S$4,200 | S$2,800 |
| 60+ / Persons with Disabilities | S$4,900 | S$3,267 |
Employees receive the highest payout at S$4,900 for the 60+ band, while SEPs receive S$3,267.
Cash vs CPF/MediSave: How Payments Are Split
Workfare payouts are divided into cash for immediate use and CPF/MediSave for long-term savings:
For Employees
- Paid monthly, based on employer CPF submissions
- Around 40% cash
- Around 60% goes to CPF
For Self-Employed Workers
- Paid annually
- About 10% in cash
- About 90% credited to MediSave
This structure ensures workers get short-term support while also building essential savings for healthcare and retirement.
How and When Payments Are Made
Employees
- Payments come two months after the work month
- Disbursed monthly via PayNow or bank account
Self-Employed Persons
- Must file income declaration and complete MediSave contributions
- Payment is made once a year after verification
Platform Workers (e.g., delivery riders)
- From 2025, payouts are monthly—similar to employees
- Based on CPF contributions made by platform companies
Why Workfare 2025 Is Important
The increased WIS support helps:
- Strengthen financial security for lower-income workers
- Encourage consistent employment
- Provide greater help to seniors and persons with disabilities
- Boost CPF and MediSave savings for long-term welfare
With rising living costs, the enhanced Workfare scheme ensures vulnerable workers receive meaningful and sustainable support.
