To cushion the impact of inflation and GST hikes, the Singapore Government continues its efforts under Budget 2025, offering a special S$200–S$400 one-time Cost of Living Payment for eligible adult Singaporeans. Initially announced for January, the government has confirmed that additional disbursements will roll out in March and April 2025 for citizens who updated their banking details late or missed earlier phases.
This initiative brings relief to 2.5 million Singaporeans, targeting low- to middle-income individuals affected by rising daily costs.
Who Qualifies for the S$200–S$400 Cost of Living Payment?
Eligibility is based on assessable income, property ownership, and citizenship status. Here’s how the payouts are structured:
| Annual Income (YA 2023) | Payout Amount (S$) |
|---|---|
| ≤ S$22,000 | S$400 |
| S$22,001 – S$34,000 | S$300 |
| S$34,001 – S$100,000 | S$200 |
Note: Individuals who own more than one residential property are not eligible for this payout.
To qualify, you must:
- Be a Singapore Citizen
- Be 21 years or older in 2025 (born in or before 2004)
- Have YA 2023 assessable income ≤ S$100,000
- Own no more than one property
If you meet these criteria, there’s no need to apply. Payments will be automatically credited.
Updated Payment Dates: March–April 2025
While most eligible recipients received payouts in January, the following updated schedule applies to late recipients or newly processed cases:
| Payment Method | New Disbursement Dates |
|---|---|
| PayNow (NRIC-linked) | March 15, 2025 |
| Bank Transfers (non-PayNow) | March 25, 2025 |
| GovCash (non-bank recipients) | April 2, 2025 |
Citizens who didn’t receive their January payout due to incomplete bank records or GovCash routing will now receive their payouts in these March–April phases. The government will send SMS notifications once payments are processed.
How Is the Payment Delivered?
The payout is credited directly into your preferred account, based on the following options:
- PayNow (NRIC-linked) – Fastest and preferred method
- Bank Credit (non-PayNow) – For those who opted for direct crediting
- GovCash – Available via ATMs for those without registered accounts
To avoid delays, link your NRIC to PayNow and ensure your bank details are up to date at go.gov.sg.
Other Budget 2025 Benefits to Expect in March–April 2025
In addition to the S$200–S$400 Cost of Living Payment, eligible citizens will benefit from several Budget 2025 support programs.
1. CDC Vouchers – March 2025 Ongoing Redemption
- Each household gets S$300 in total
- First S$150 tranche valid from January to June 2025
- Use at participating hawkers, heartland merchants, and supermarkets
- Claim via: go.gov.sg/cdcv
2. U-Save Rebates – April 2025
- Next rebate payout scheduled for April 2025
- Reduces HDB households’ electricity and water bills
| Flat Type | Rebate (April 2025) |
|---|---|
| 1- & 2-room | S$95 |
| 3-room | S$85 |
| 4-room | S$75 |
| 5-room | S$65 |
| Executive | S$55 |
3. MediSave Bonus – April 2025
- One-time top-up of S$200–S$300
- For Singaporeans aged 21–50 years
- Credited directly to CPF MediSave accounts
- Use for outpatient medical expenses, insurance, and future health needs
How to Check Your Eligibility or Payment Status
To confirm your status or troubleshoot missed payments:
- Log in to Singpass at gov.sg
- Navigate to “My Benefits” or “Government Payouts”
- View pending and completed disbursements
- Ensure your PayNow or bank account is listed correctly
- Contact support via the online helpdesk for unresolved cases
FAQs
Will I still get the S$200–S$400 payout if I didn’t receive it in January?
Yes, if you’re eligible and didn’t receive your payout earlier, it will be credited in March or April 2025 depending on your banking setup.
How do I update my PayNow or bank details?
Log in to your bank’s app or website and link your NRIC to PayNow. You can also update details via Singpass.
Can I get both CDC vouchers and the Cost of Living Payment?
Yes. These are separate schemes, and you can receive both if eligible.
How will I know if the payout is successful?
You’ll receive an SMS notification once your payment is credited. You can also check your account balance or visit the GovCash portal for ATM collection details.
What if my income changed recently?
The government uses Year of Assessment 2023 income records. Current income changes won’t affect this round of payouts.
Are the U-Save rebates and MediSave bonuses automatic?
Yes. If you’re eligible, they will be credited automatically—no action required.
Can seniors qualify for this payout?
Yes, as long as they meet the income and property criteria and are 21 years or older in 2025.
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.
