Singapore is making a major move to support its growing gig economy workforce. Starting in 2025, eligible platform workers—such as private-hire drivers, delivery riders, and freelance service providers—can receive up to $3,267 per year under the enhanced Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme.
This scheme not only offers monthly cash payouts but also strengthens workers’ long-term security through CPF MediSave contributions.
Here’s your complete guide to this progressive financial assistance.
What Is the Enhanced Workfare Income Supplement?
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a targeted support scheme designed to improve income security for lower-wage workers. The enhanced scheme now includes platform workers, recognising their growing contribution to Singapore’s economy.
The new structure delivers:
- Up to $3,267 annually for eligible platform workers.
- 10% of the benefit as monthly cash payouts.
- 90% credited to MediSave, ensuring future healthcare savings.
- Automatic monthly payouts, providing a more predictable income stream.
This ensures that gig workers can enjoy both short-term financial relief and long-term health savings.
Annual WIS Support by Age Group
Here’s a breakdown of annual Workfare Income Supplement amounts for different age groups of eligible platform workers:
| Age Group | Maximum WIS (Annual) | Cash Payout (10%) | MediSave Contribution (90%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–34 years | $1,633 | $163 | $1,470 |
| 35–44 years | $2,333 | $233 | $2,100 |
| 45–59 years | $2,800 | $280 | $2,520 |
| 60 years & above / PwDs | $3,267 | $327 | $2,940 |
This table shows that older workers and persons with disabilities receive higher payouts to account for their greater healthcare and retirement needs.
Monthly Payouts: A New Structure for Financial Flexibility
From March 2025, the payout frequency for platform workers will shift to monthly, giving workers faster access to funds and improving budgeting.
Payout Structure:
| Component | Percentage | Mode of Disbursement |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Payout | 10% | PayNow linked to NRIC / Bank Account |
| MediSave Contribution | 90% | Credited directly to CPF MediSave |
- The cash payout can be used immediately for day-to-day needs like food, transport, or utilities.
- The MediSave contribution helps platform workers save for healthcare, hospitalisation, and long-term care.
Who Qualifies for the Workfare Support?
To ensure that the assistance reaches those who need it most, strict eligibility criteria apply:
| Criteria Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a Singapore Citizen |
| Age | Minimum 30 years (no age limit for PwDs) |
| Monthly Income Range | Between $500 and $3,000 |
| Property Ownership | Must not own more than one property |
| Annual Value of Property | $21,000 or less |
| CPF Contribution Requirement | Mandatory MediSave contributions through platform operator |
This ensures that lower-income platform workers, and not higher-income freelancers, benefit from this initiative.
How Auto-Enrollment Works
One of the most convenient aspects of this scheme is automatic enrollment. Eligible platform workers do not need to apply manually.
Here’s how it works:
- Platform operators submit monthly income records and CPF contributions.
- If eligibility is confirmed, monthly WIS payouts begin automatically.
- The process is seamless—platform workers simply need to ensure their records are accurate.
Important Tip:
Workers should check their CPF statements regularly to confirm that income and contributions are properly reported. If discrepancies arise, it’s important to raise them with the platform operator immediately.
How to Ensure You Receive the Full $3,267
Receiving the full annual benefit requires compliance throughout the year. Here are key actions workers should take:
- Keep monthly income between $500 and $3,000.
- Verify CPF MediSave contributions via the CPF website or mobile app.
- Raise concerns with platform operators about missing contributions.
- Avoid frequent platform switching without confirming CPF transfers.
- Stay updated with CPF policy announcements and scheme updates.
Continuous compliance ensures workers can receive the maximum annual benefit of $3,267.
Why MediSave Contributions Matter
A core goal of the enhanced WIS is to promote healthcare readiness through MediSave savings.
90% of the WIS benefit is credited directly to the MediSave account, which can be used for:
- Hospitalisation expenses at approved medical institutions.
- MediShield Life premiums.
- CareShield Life premiums.
- Approved outpatient treatments, including certain chronic diseases.
For gig workers who often lack employer-sponsored health benefits, these savings are vital. They provide peace of mind and reduce future out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
Addressing the Gig Economy’s Needs
Singapore’s enhanced WIS scheme is a forward-thinking move to address the realities of modern work.
Key benefits include:
- Regular monthly income support.
- Guaranteed MediSave contributions.
- Support aligned with the unique needs of platform workers.
- Greater financial resilience and healthcare preparedness.
The new structure ensures that gig workers are included in Singapore’s core social protection framework, promoting equity and long-term financial stability.
Taking Responsibility for a Secure Future
The enhanced Workfare Income Supplement scheme reflects Singapore’s evolving approach to social inclusion. It recognises the important role gig workers play in the economy and ensures that they, too, can build a stable financial foundation.
Platform workers should:
- Stay informed.
- Monitor CPF accounts.
- Ensure all reporting is accurate.
With the right awareness and consistent action, they can fully unlock the $3,267 Workfare Payment—a meaningful amount that supports both their present and future.
The $3,267 Workfare Payment for 2025 offers Singapore’s platform workers a powerful combination of monthly income support and future healthcare savings. It addresses the gaps that gig workers often face and promotes a fairer, more inclusive support system.
To make the most of this opportunity:
- Stay aware of eligibility criteria.
- Ensure accurate CPF contributions.
- Monitor payments regularly.
Singapore’s message is clear: Every worker matters, regardless of their employment type. The enhanced WIS ensures that platform workers can build both short-term security and long-term resilience.
FAQs
How do I check if I’m receiving the WIS payments?
Check your CPF MediSave account and look for monthly WIS entries. You will also see cash payouts in your linked PayNow or bank account.
What if my platform operator doesn’t report my income correctly?
First, raise the issue with the platform operator. If unresolved, approach the CPF Board to ensure your records are corrected.
Can I still qualify if my income fluctuates?
Yes—as long as your average monthly income falls between $500 and $3,000 across the year, you can remain eligible for the full benefit.