In response to the increasing cost of living, the Singapore government has rolled out a comprehensive 2025 Budget plan designed to provide financial relief for households and businesses alike.
Among the key initiatives is the S$490 living support payment, part of a broader effort to ease economic pressures on Singaporeans. Here’s everything you need to know about the payment, eligibility, and how to apply.
What is the S$490 Living Support Payment?
The Singapore government has introduced the S$490 Living Support Payment as part of its ongoing effort to alleviate the financial strain on citizens due to rising inflation and cost-of-living increases.
The payment aims to provide direct monetary support to eligible individuals and households, helping them meet their everyday expenses.
The S$490 payment is structured within a broader relief framework, including Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers, which are designed to be used at local hawker stalls, heartland shops, and supermarkets.
By targeting essential goods and services, this initiative is designed to maximize the relief’s impact across Singaporean households.
Key Details of the S$490 Payment and How it Works
The S$490 payment will be disbursed as part of a multi-phased relief package aimed at easing the financial burdens faced by households. Here’s a breakdown of how the support will be rolled out:
| Payment Scheme | Amount | Payout Dates |
|---|---|---|
| S$490 Living Support Payment | S$490 | June 2025 |
| S$500 CDC Voucher | S$500 | June 2025 |
| S$300 CDC Voucher | S$300 | January 2026 |
These disbursements are strategically timed to ensure a balanced flow of support throughout the year. The first S$500 CDC voucher will be distributed in June 2025, while the second S$300 installment is slated for January 2026.
Who Qualifies for the Living Support Payment?
The S$490 Living Support Payment is designed to be inclusive and benefit as many households as possible.
There are no income thresholds or property ownership restrictions, ensuring that both lower- and middle-income families can receive assistance without facing bureaucratic obstacles.
To qualify for this support, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a Singaporean household, where a group of people live at the same address and share everyday expenses.
- There are no income-based restrictions, so both working individuals and retirees can access the funds.
Additional Financial Relief Measures in 2025
Beyond the S$490 Living Support Payment, the Singapore government has introduced a range of auxiliary schemes to further ease financial burdens:
- U-Save Rebates: For eligible HDB households, rebates will range from S$440 to S$760, which will help offset three months’ worth of utility bills for residents living in 3- and 4-room flats.
- Commemorative Vouchers: As part of Singapore’s 60th anniversary celebrations, all Singaporeans aged 21 and above will receive S$600 in vouchers, with seniors aged 60 and above receiving S$800.
Additionally, the government is offering a 60% personal income tax rebate for the assessment year 2025, capped at S$200, providing further relief to working individuals.
How Will the Payments Be Delivered?
The support payments will be delivered through Singapore’s LifeSG mobile app, simplifying the redemption process.
Eligible households will be informed through official communication channels, and the system is designed for ease of use.
For those who may not be familiar with technology, there will be physical collection points and in-person assistance available to ensure no one is left behind.
Living Costs Breakdown in Singapore
Living costs in Singapore can be high, which makes these relief schemes crucial for many families. Here’s a quick look at the average living expenses:
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in central areas costs between S$2,500 to S$4,000, while in the suburbs, it ranges from S$1,500 to S$2,500.
- Utilities: Monthly bills average around S$150.
- Groceries: Expenses typically range from S$500 to S$1,000 per month.
- Public Transport: A monthly pass costs between S$100 to S$120.
These schemes, especially the CDC vouchers and U-Save rebates, are designed to directly address these daily living costs, ensuring that citizens can access affordable services and reduce financial stress.
Singapore’s S$490 Living Support Payment, along with the accompanying CDC vouchers and tax relief, offers much-needed financial relief for households in 2025.
These initiatives provide a well-rounded approach to easing the economic challenges faced by Singaporeans, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens during uncertain times.
FAQs
How do I apply for the S$490 Living Support Payment?
The payment will be automatically distributed to eligible households through the LifeSG app or physical collection points.
Are there any income limits to qualify for the S$490 payment?
No, there are no income thresholds or property ownership restrictions. All Singaporean households are eligible.
When will the second CDC voucher installment be available?
The second installment of the S$300 CDC voucher will be distributed in January 2026.