Singapore is introducing a major boost for larger families in 2025, offering up to $16,000 in support for parents welcoming their third or subsequent child. This enhanced package is part of the Government’s continued effort to ease the financial pressures of raising children and strengthen long-term family support.
Here’s a clear breakdown of who qualifies, what benefits make up the $16,000 total, and how each payment phase works.
What Is the $16,000 Child Bonus?
The new Child Bonus for 2025 combines several forms of financial assistance, including:
- A MediSave grant for maternity and healthcare
- A boosted Child Development Account (CDA) First Step Grant
- Annual credits to help with childcare and early-education costs
Together, these components provide families with up to $16,000 over the early years of the child’s life.
Who Is Eligible in 2025?
To qualify for the full $16,000 package:
- The child must be the third or later-born child
- The child must be born on or after 18 February 2025
- The child must be a Singapore Citizen
- Parents must be legally married, as per Baby Bonus requirements
Families meeting these criteria automatically qualify for all support components under the enhanced scheme.
Breakdown of the $16,000 Support Package
1. MediSave Grant — $5,000
A $5,000 grant is credited to the mother’s MediSave account shortly after birth registration.
This can be used for delivery bills, postnatal treatments, and the child’s medical needs.
2. CDA First Step Grant — $10,000
The CDA First Step Grant for third and later-born children has been increased to $10,000.
Funds can be used for approved expenses such as:
- Preschool and childcare fees
- Medical services
- Early intervention programmes
The amount is disbursed once the CDA account is opened.
3. Annual LifeSG Credits — $1,000 per year (up to $6,000 total)
Every eligible child will receive $1,000 annually from age 1 to age 6, totalling up to $6,000.
This helps parents manage ongoing childhood expenses during the preschool years.
When and How Payments Are Released
The $16,000 package is delivered across three payment phases:
Phase 1: MediSave Grant
- Deposited shortly after birth registration
- Provides immediate healthcare financial support
Phase 2: CDA First Step Grant
- Released after parents open the Child Development Account
- Accessible for a wide range of child-related expenses
Phase 3: Yearly Credits
- $1,000 credited each year
- Continues until the child reaches the age of six
This phased approach gives families both upfront assistance and sustained support through early childhood.
Why This Support Matters for Families
The 2025 enhancements offer significant relief for families with three or more children by:
- Reducing the high initial costs of newborn care
- Supporting long-term childcare and education expenses
- Encouraging family growth by easing financial strain
- Strengthening the foundation for a child’s early development
At a time when living costs are rising, the expanded Child Bonus helps larger families better manage their financial responsibilities without compromising on their children’s needs.
