Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme is designed to support lower-income workers and self-employed individuals (SEPs) by boosting their income and increasing MediSave savings. In 2025, eligible SEPs can receive up to $2,800 annually, distributed as 10 percent cash and 90 percent MediSave contributions.
This financial support ensures that self-employed individuals can maintain financial stability while saving for future healthcare needs. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application steps, and benefits is essential for those who qualify.
Key Details About the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) for Self-Employed Individuals
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Annual Payout | $2,800 |
| Payout Structure | 10 percent cash, 90 percent MediSave contributions |
| Eligibility Criteria | Self-employed persons (SEPs) aged 30+ with net trade income of $500–$2,500 |
| Application Process | Income declaration and mandatory MediSave contributions |
| Enhancements in 2025 | Higher income ceiling and increased payouts |
| Official Resource | CPF Board – Workfare Income Supplement Page |
What is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme?
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme is a Singapore government initiative aimed at supporting lower-income workers and self-employed individuals. It provides financial aid through:
- Cash payments for immediate financial relief.
- MediSave contributions to help individuals save for medical expenses and future healthcare needs.
The goal of WIS is to encourage self-employed individuals to contribute to MediSave while also ensuring they receive financial support.
Who Qualifies for the $2,800 Workfare Support?
To be eligible for WIS as a self-employed person, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. Age Requirement
- Must be 30 years or older by December 31 of the work year.
- No minimum age requirement for individuals with disabilities.
2. Income Range
- Must have an annual net trade income between $500 and $2,500.
- From 2025, the income ceiling will be raised to $3,000, allowing more SEPs to qualify.
3. Mandatory MediSave Contributions
- SEPs must contribute to their MediSave accounts to be eligible for WIS.
- Contributions should match the declared income as per CPF Board guidelines.
4. Property Ownership
- Applicants must not own more than one property, and the property’s annual value must not exceed $21,000.
- For married applicants, their spouse’s annual assessable income must not exceed $70,000.
How Are Payments Distributed?
WIS payments are structured to ensure that individuals receive both short-term financial relief and long-term healthcare savings:
- 10 percent Cash Payment: Deposited directly into the individual’s registered bank account or via PayNow linked to NRIC.
- 90 percent MediSave Contribution: Credited to the MediSave account to help cover medical expenses, insurance premiums, and future healthcare costs.
How to Apply for Workfare Support as a Self-Employed Individual?
Applying for WIS as an SEP in Singapore requires income declaration and MediSave contributions.
Step 1: Declare Your Income
- File your annual net trade income with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).
- The declaration must be made between March 1 and April 18 each year.
Step 2: Contribute to MediSave
- Ensure that MediSave contributions are up to date for the relevant work year.
- Contributions can be made online through the CPF website or via designated banking services.
Step 3: Update Bank Account Details
- Register a valid bank account or PayNow linked to NRIC for cash payouts.
Step 4: Check Eligibility Status
- Use the CPF Board website or contact CPF services to verify eligibility and application status.
Upcoming Enhancements to the WIS Scheme in 2025
The Singapore government has introduced improvements to the WIS scheme for 2025 to benefit a larger group of self-employed individuals.
1. Higher Income Ceiling
- The annual net trade income ceiling will increase from $2,500 to $3,000.
2. Increased Payouts
- Adjustments will be made to payout amounts to reflect inflation and economic conditions.
These enhancements ensure that more self-employed individuals receive financial support while continuing to contribute to their MediSave accounts.
Why the Workfare Income Supplement is Important for Self-Employed Individuals
The WIS scheme offers significant advantages for self-employed individuals in Singapore:
1. Improved Financial Stability
- The cash payout provides immediate relief for daily expenses.
2. Increased Healthcare Savings
- MediSave contributions ensure long-term healthcare security.
3. Encouragement for Income Declaration
- The scheme promotes proper income reporting for self-employed individuals.
4. Enhanced Retirement Planning
- Contributions to MediSave improve CPF savings for future needs.
FAQs
1. How much can self-employed individuals receive under WIS in 2025?
Eligible self-employed persons can receive up to $2,800 annually, distributed as 10 percent cash and 90 percent MediSave contributions.
2. Do I need to apply every year?
Yes, self-employed individuals must declare their income and make MediSave contributions each year to qualify.
3. How do I check if I qualify for WIS?
Visit the CPF Board website or contact CPF services to check eligibility status.
4. What happens if I do not contribute to MediSave?
Failure to make required MediSave contributions will result in ineligibility for WIS payouts.
5. When will I receive the WIS payment?
Payments are credited quarterly, based on the individual’s income declaration and MediSave contributions.
6. Can I receive WIS if I also work part-time?
Yes, hybrid earners (self-employed and part-time employees) may still qualify if they meet the income criteria.
7. How can I update my bank details for WIS payments?
Log in to your CPF account and update bank details or PayNow NRIC registration.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
