The Government of Singapore offers a variety of financial aid schemes to assist low-income individuals and families, especially toward the end of the year. Among these, the Year-End Payouts play a crucial role in helping senior citizens and lower-income residents handle essential living costs during the inflation-heavy year-end period.
Overview of Singapore Year-End Payouts
The year-end payouts are government-disbursed financial aids primarily targeted at individuals with low incomes and limited assets. These payouts are designed to offset rising costs of living, including necessities like food, utilities, rent, and healthcare.
One of the most prominent year-end financial programs is the Assurance Package (AP), which provides cash support based on factors like income level, age, and property ownership.
Breakdown of Government Schemes and Payouts
Here is a detailed look at the main year-end payouts and schemes for Singaporeans:
| Scheme | Amount | Eligibility Criteria | Payout Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| GST Voucher (Cash) | Up to $850 | Singapore Citizens, aged 21+, annual income ≤ $34,000, home value ≤ $31,000, 1 property only | August annually |
| Medisave Top-Up | Varies | Singapore Citizens aged 65+ | August annually |
| U-Save Rebates | $220–$380 | Singapore Citizens in HDB flats with citizen owners/tenants | Quarterly (May, Jul…) |
| S&CC Rebates | Varies | HDB households meeting income and property criteria | Quarterly |
| Assurance Package (AP) | $700–$2,250 | Singapore Citizens, aged 21+, amount varies by income and property ownership | May annually |
| COL Special Payment | $200–$400 (One-time) | Singapore Citizens, aged 21+, income ≤ $100,000, 1 property only | September 2025 |
| COL U-Save | $20/quarter + U-Save | HDB households with at least one citizen owner or tenant | Quarterly |
1. GST Voucher Scheme
Initially introduced in Budget 2012, the GST Voucher (GSTV) helps cushion Goods and Services Tax (GST) expenses for lower- and middle-income households. From 2025 onwards, the cash payout increases to up to $850.
Components
- Cash: Given in August to low-income Singaporeans.
- Medisave: For citizens aged 65+, also distributed in August.
- U-Save: Quarterly utility rebates for HDB households.
- S&CC Rebate: Helps offset Service & Conservancy Charges for eligible households.
2. Assurance Package (AP) Cash
The Assurance Package supports adults with yearly cash payments from $700 to $2,250, depending on their income bracket and property ownership status. These payouts are automatic—no application is needed.
Eligibility
- Singapore citizen or permanent resident
- Age 21 or older by 2025
3. Cost-of-Living (COL) Special Payment
To further aid households in coping with economic challenges, the government introduced a one-time payment between $200 and $400 under the COL Special Payment scheme. This support was credited in September 2025, with no registration required.
Eligibility
- Singapore citizen or permanent resident
- Age 21 and above in 2025
- Assessable income ≤ $100,000
- Must not own more than one property
4. Cost-of-Living (COL) U-Save Rebates
This scheme targets HDB households and helps them with utility bills. Qualified households can receive $220 to $380 under the U-Save and AP U-Save schemes. It also includes a $20 quarterly rebate due to carbon tax and water price adjustments.
Eligibility
- Reside in HDB flats
- Must have at least one citizen in the household if not fully rented
- If fully rented, the tenant must be a Singapore citizen
The Singapore Year-End Payouts serve as vital financial assistance for low-income groups, senior citizens, and HDB households. With benefits ranging from GST rebates to Assurance Package cash, these payments help residents cope with inflation, manage household expenses, and maintain financial stability. Understanding eligibility and timing of payouts ensures that citizens can maximize their support with ease and confidence.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the Year-End Payouts in Singapore?
No. Most year-end financial payouts such as the Assurance Package and COL Special Payment are automatically disbursed to eligible recipients.
How do I check if I qualify for the GST Voucher?
You can check eligibility through official Singapore government portals using Singpass. Key factors include income, property ownership, and age.
When are the U-Save rebates credited?
The U-Save and COL U-Save rebates are credited quarterly—usually in January, April, July, and October, depending on the scheme.