Starting in April 2025, Singapore will launch the Jobseeker Support Scheme (JS), designed to provide financial aid to those who have recently lost their jobs. Eligible jobseekers can receive up to SGD 6,000 over six months, offering temporary relief while they search for new employment or upskill for better career opportunities. This guide will explain eligibility requirements, application steps, and how to maximize the support available.
Understanding the Jobseeker Support Scheme
The JS initiative is a government-backed program aimed at helping unemployed Singaporean citizens regain financial stability while actively job hunting. Beyond monetary assistance, the scheme also encourages career development and retraining to improve long-term employability.
Key Features of the JS Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | April 2025 |
| Maximum Support | Up to SGD 6,000 over six months |
| Eligibility | Singapore Citizens aged 21 and above, unemployed due to retrenchment or company closure |
| Income Criteria | Monthly income must not have exceeded SGD 5,000 before job loss |
| Property Requirements | Must live in a property valued at SGD 31,000 or below and own no more than one property |
| Application Platform | Workforce Singapore (WSG) Portal |
| Job Search Requirement | Monthly proof of active job hunting or participation in career-building activities |
| Additional Support | Potential to receive extra funding through SkillsFuture programs |
Why This Scheme Matters
With rapid changes in technology and economic shifts, job security is no longer guaranteed. The JS scheme provides short-term financial relief while promoting an active approach to employment recovery. Instead of merely offering passive assistance, the program ensures that recipients stay engaged in professional development.
Who Qualifies for This Support?
To be eligible for financial assistance, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Singapore Citizenship & Age
- Must be a Singapore Citizen and at least 21 years old at the time of application.
- Job Loss Circumstances
- Unemployment must be due to retrenchment, company closure, or termination (not caused by misconduct). Voluntary resignation disqualifies an applicant.
- Work History
- Candidates must have worked at least six of the past twelve months before their job loss.
- Previous Income Threshold
- The average monthly salary before unemployment should not exceed SGD 5,000.
- Property Ownership Restrictions
- Applicants must reside in a property valued at SGD 31,000 or below and should not own multiple properties.
Financial Assistance Breakdown
The JS scheme offers decreasing payouts over six months to encourage early re-employment:
| Month | Monthly Payout (SGD) |
| 1 | 1,500 |
| 2 | 1,250 |
| 3 | 1,000 |
| 4 | 750 |
| 5 | 750 |
| 6 | 750 |
Payouts stop immediately once a participant secures new employment, ensuring that aid is focused on those who are still actively job searching.
Meeting the Job Search Requirement
To remain eligible for payments, jobseekers must demonstrate efforts toward finding new employment. These include:
- Registering and updating profiles on MyCareersFuture.sg
- Submitting job applications through WSG CareersFinder
- Attending job fairs or networking events
- Completing career counseling or advisory sessions
- Enrolling in certified training programs or workshops
Participants must submit proof of these activities each month via the WSG portal.
How to Apply for the Jobseeker Support Scheme
- Gather Required Documents
- NRIC (front and back)
- Retrenchment or termination letter
- Last 12 months’ payslips or income statements
- IRAS Notice of Assessment for tax verification
- Property ownership documentation
- Access the Online Application
- Use Singpass to log into the WSG portal when applications open in April 2025.
- Complete the Application Form
- Provide employment and income history, upload required documents, and outline job search plans.
- Wait for Approval
- Once reviewed, applicants will receive SMS or email notifications. Approved candidates will receive their first payment the following month.
Maximizing Benefits with SkillsFuture
Combining the JS scheme with SkillsFuture initiatives can provide additional support. SkillsFuture offers:
- Monthly training allowances
- Subsidized or fully-funded upskilling programs
- Career mentorship
- Access to priority job placements
By enrolling in full-time SkillsFuture Level-Up courses, eligible individuals can receive up to SGD 21,000 in total assistance over six months.
Real-Life Example: David’s Success Story
David, a 38-year-old engineer, was laid off in early 2025 due to company downsizing. Here’s how he utilized the scheme:
- April 2025: Applied for JS support and submitted required documents.
- May to October 2025: Received SGD 6,000 in payouts while attending career workshops and submitting job applications.
- June 2025: Enrolled in a SkillsFuture-funded data analytics course, which provided additional financial aid.
- November 2025: Secured a new role in a fintech company, leveraging both his previous experience and new skills.
This case highlights how proactive participation in job search activities and upskilling can accelerate career recovery.
Also read: S$300 Singapore Vouchers for 250K Households – Eligibility & Redemption Guide
Conclusion
Singapore’s Jobseeker Support Scheme provides critical financial assistance while ensuring active career progression. By understanding eligibility criteria, fulfilling job search obligations, and leveraging SkillsFuture opportunities, unemployed individuals can navigate career transitions more effectively and secure sustainable employment faster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I find a job before receiving all six payments?
Your payments will stop immediately once you secure employment, ensuring aid is given only to those who need it.
2. Can I receive this aid if I resigned voluntarily?
No. The scheme is specifically for individuals who lost their jobs due to retrenchment or business closures.
3. Do I need to repay the financial aid?
No. The financial assistance is non-repayable as long as you meet all participation requirements.
4. Can I apply while taking a full-time course?
Yes, but only if the course aligns with job-search efforts or reskilling under SkillsFuture programs.
5. Where can I check my application status?
You can monitor your application status on the WSG portal.
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