In Singapore’s fast-growing gig economy, many workers in ride-hailing, food delivery, and freelance services often face irregular income and little job security. To address this, the government has strengthened the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme for 2025, offering eligible workers up to $3,267 a year in additional support.
This upgraded scheme is designed not only to boost take-home pay but also to build long-term savings through Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions a move that helps workers plan for housing, retirement, and healthcare.
Why WIS Matters in 2025
The cost of living has risen sharply, especially for workers who do not have fixed salaries. For platform workers such as Grab or Gojek drivers, Foodpanda or Deliveroo riders, and independent freelancers, this scheme provides predictable monthly income and mandatory CPF savings, giving them a more stable financial foundation.
The government’s approach in 2025 is clear: integrate gig workers into the social safety net and encourage consistent contributions toward retirement and medical security.
Key Changes in the 2025 WIS Scheme
- Monthly Payments Instead of Annual Lump Sums
Instead of waiting a full year for payouts, eligible workers will now receive monthly disbursements, credited two months after the work month. For instance, income earned in January will be paid at the end of March. Payment Methods:- PayNow linked to NRIC (fastest option)
- GovCash for workers without a bank account
- CPF Contributions Made Mandatory by Platforms
Starting 2025, ride-hailing and food delivery platforms must begin contributing to their workers’ CPF accounts, with full implementation by 2029.
Contributions will be split between:- Ordinary Account (housing needs)
- Special Account (retirement savings)
- MediSave (healthcare expenses)
- Higher Payouts for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities
Workers aged 60 and above, as well as those with disabilities, will now receive the maximum annual payout of $3,267, recognising the higher costs they often face.
Who Qualifies for the $3,267 WIS in 2025?
To be eligible, you must meet all the following criteria:
- Singapore Citizen, aged 30 or older (no age limit for persons with disabilities)
- Earn a gross annual income of $28,000 or less
- Have worked at least two months in 2024
- Made required CPF and MediSave contributions
Not Eligible If:
- Your property’s annual value exceeds $13,000
- Your annual assessable income exceeds $70,000
- You are under 30 and not a person with a disability
2025 Payout Rates by Age
| Age Group | Max Annual Payout | Cash Component | CPF Component |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–34 | $1,700 | $300 | $1,400 |
| 35–44 | $2,250 | $450 | $1,800 |
| 45–54 | $2,850 | $600 | $2,250 |
| 55–59 | $3,150 | $750 | $2,400 |
| 60+ / PWD | $3,267 | $800 | $2,467 |
2025 Monthly Payout Schedule
| Income Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | End of March 2025 |
| February | End of April 2025 |
| March | End of May 2025 |
| April | End of June 2025 |
| May | End of July 2025 |
| June | End of August 2025 |
| July | End of September 2025 |
| August | End of October 2025 |
| September | End of November 2025 |
| October | End of December 2025 |
| November | End of January 2026 |
| December | End of February 2026 |
MediSave Contributions for Self-Employed Workers
To receive WIS, self-employed individuals must make minimum MediSave contributions:
| Age Group | Minimum Contribution |
|---|---|
| 30–34 | $240 |
| 35–44 | $270 |
| 45–49 | $300 |
| 50+ | $315 |
Workers earning above $6,000 in Net Trade Income must contribute more. Contributions can be made via lump sum or monthly GIRO instalments.
How to Apply and Track Your WIS Payments
- Declare Net Trade Income on IRAS myTax Portal
- Ensure your platform operator deducts CPF correctly
- Make MediSave contributions before deadlines
- Use the CPF WIS Calculator to estimate payouts
- Track monthly payments through PayNow or GovCash
Maximising Your WIS Benefits
- Keep detailed records of your monthly income and expenses
- Use CPF funds wisely for retirement, housing, and medical needs
- Maintain an emergency fund to cover 3–6 months of expenses
- Consider private insurance to supplement MediSave coverage
Conclusion
The 2025 enhancements to Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement mark a significant step in improving financial stability for gig and low-income workers. By combining steady monthly payouts with long-term CPF savings, the scheme gives workers a safety net today while helping them prepare for the future.
The key to getting the most out of WIS is staying compliant with CPF and MediSave contributions and keeping track of payout schedules because every extra dollar saved now will matter later.