Singapore’s government has rolled out a major update to its Workfare Income Supplement Scheme in 2025. Under this latest support program, self-employed Singaporeans will be eligible for payouts of up to $2800 under the Workfare payout 2025 Singapore initiative. This financial support is aimed at uplifting lower-income workers, helping them sustain income and CPF savings amid inflation and job market fluctuations.
This initiative falls under the enhanced Workfare framework, which was updated to broaden inclusion and raise payout ceilings. The $2800 self-employed scheme is especially relevant for freelancers, delivery riders, hawkers, and gig economy workers—segments of the workforce that have grown rapidly but often lack access to structured employment benefits.
If you’re self-employed and wondering whether you qualify for the full $2800 payout, this article breaks down the eligibility, payment structure, and how to apply or check your status for Workfare 2025.
What Is the Workfare Income Supplement Scheme?
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is part of Singapore’s larger social support strategy aimed at rewarding work and supplementing the incomes and retirement savings of lower-wage workers. It provides payouts through both cash and CPF contributions.
For self-employed persons (SEPs), the Workfare payout 2025 Singapore targets those who have made mandatory MediSave contributions and declared their income to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) before the specified deadlines.
With the latest updates, self-employed Singaporeans can receive up to $2800 annually, depending on age and income tier. This is part of the $2800 self-employed scheme included in Workfare enhancements that took effect from January 2023 and are continuing through 2025.
Workfare Payout Structure for Self-Employed in 2025
To better understand how the $2800 self-employed scheme works, refer to the following table, which breaks down the Workfare payout components by age group:
Age Group (as of 2025) | Maximum Annual Payout | Cash Component | CPF Contribution |
---|---|---|---|
Below 35 | Not eligible | – | – |
35 to 44 | $1700 | $1190 | $510 |
45 to 54 | $2300 | $1610 | $690 |
55 to 59 | $2600 | $1820 | $780 |
60 and above | $2800 | $1960 | $840 |
Eligibility is also subject to your annual net trade income and MediSave contribution status.
This updated scheme is part of a wider effort to ensure fairer income distribution and provide tangible support to those who contribute to society through non-traditional work avenues.
Who Is Eligible for the $2800 Workfare Payout in 2025?
To benefit from the Workfare payout 2025 Singapore, self-employed workers must meet several criteria:
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Be a Singapore citizen
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Aged 35 and above as of 2025 (inclusive of those turning 35 that year)
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Earn an annual Net Trade Income (NTI) of not more than $25,000
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Make mandatory MediSave contributions
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Not be a full-time student, and not serving NS full-time
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Have declared income to IRAS before 31 March 2025
Meeting these conditions qualifies individuals for tiered payouts under the $2800 self-employed scheme. CPF contributions remain a core component, ensuring the worker’s long-term retirement savings remain on track.
How to Apply and Receive Your Workfare Payment
You do not need to apply directly for the Workfare Income Supplement if you’re eligible. Instead, ensure the following actions are completed:
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Declare your income to IRAS before the 31 March 2025 deadline.
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Make MediSave contributions based on your declared NTI using CPF’s online calculator or visit any CPF branch.
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Wait for notification from CPF and Workfare offices by Q3 2025.
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Receive payout via GIRO or PayNow-linked NRIC accounts.
Payouts are disbursed quarterly, typically in March, June, September, and December. The payment mode and split between CPF and cash will be automatically calculated based on your age and income.
Conclusion
The $2800 self-employed scheme under the Workfare payout 2025 Singapore plan brings meaningful relief to freelancers and informal workers in Singapore. By encouraging MediSave contributions and rewarding honest income declarations, the government continues to show its commitment to inclusivity and financial security.
If you are self-employed and meet the basic eligibility criteria, it’s vital to act promptly—declare your income and contribute to MediSave on time to ensure you receive your full entitlement. This scheme is more than a cash boost; it’s a pathway toward long-term savings and greater peace of mind.
FAQs
How much can a self-employed person receive under Workfare in 2025?
Eligible individuals aged 60 and above can receive up to $2800 in total annual payout.
Can I apply manually for Workfare payout in 2025?
No application is needed. You only need to declare income and make MediSave contributions before 31 March 2025.
I’m 33 years old and self-employed. Do I qualify for Workfare 2025?
Unfortunately, no. The scheme is only open to Singaporeans aged 35 and above.
When will I receive the Workfare payments in 2025?
Payments are made quarterly: in March, June, September, and December.
Is CPF contribution mandatory to get the Workfare payout?
Yes. You must make MediSave contributions based on your declared income to qualify for the payout.
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