To support unemployed individuals during economic uncertainty, the Singapore government has rolled out a new financial assistance initiative in 2025 — a $6,000 cash relief payout for jobless citizens. This temporary scheme is aimed at helping those who are actively seeking employment but have yet to secure a stable source of income. If you’ve been out of work recently, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of how this payout works and whether you qualify.
What Is the $6,000 Relief Payout Scheme?
The $6,000 relief payout is a temporary financial assistance program designed to provide short-term monetary support to unemployed Singaporeans. Recognising the challenges faced by many jobseekers in a changing economic climate, the government introduced this scheme to offer immediate relief while encouraging citizens to remain active in their job search.
Eligible individuals can receive up to $6,000 in total, disbursed in two separate payments over a few months. This initiative not only helps cover daily living expenses but also gives jobseekers some financial breathing room as they look for new opportunities.
How Much Money Will You Receive?
Qualified applicants can expect to receive the payout in two stages:
- First Payment: $3,000 upon approval of the application
- Second Payment: Another $3,000 after three months if the applicant remains unemployed and actively seeking work
This phased approach ensures continued engagement in the job market and offers support during a critical transition period for many individuals.
Who Is Eligible for the $6,000 Payout?
To benefit from this relief scheme, applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions:
- Must be a Singapore citizen between the ages of 21 and 65
- Should be unemployed for at least three consecutive months prior to application
- Must show proof of active job search efforts, such as applications made through Workforce Singapore (WSG), MyCareersFuture portal, or participation in job fairs
- Should not be receiving support from other major long-term government assistance programs like ComCare Long-Term Assistance
- Monthly household income must not exceed $6,000
- Applicant should have made at least 12 months of CPF contributions in the last 24 months before becoming unemployed
Meeting these criteria ensures the scheme benefits those who need it most — people genuinely trying to get back on their feet.
How to Apply for the Relief Assistance?
Starting from August 2025, Singaporeans can submit their applications through the SupportGoWhere portal. There will also be assistance available at community centers and Social Service Offices for those who prefer in-person help or have difficulty accessing digital services.
To apply, you’ll need the following documents:
- A copy of your NRIC
- CPF contribution history for the last 24 months
- Proof of employment termination or retrenchment
- Records showing active job-hunting efforts, such as emails, application records, or screenshots from job portals
The application process is designed to be simple and efficient, with most submissions reviewed and approved within two weeks.
When Will the Funds Be Disbursed?
Once approved, the first payout of $3,000 will be transferred directly to your registered bank account within 10 working days. The second installment of $3,000 will be issued three months later, provided you are still unemployed and can demonstrate ongoing job search efforts.
Applicants will be contacted via email or SMS for updates on their application status, and follow-up checks may be done to ensure continued eligibility for the second payment.
Why This Relief Package Matters?
This initiative is more than just a short-term financial fix. It represents a broader strategy to support citizens in transition and reduce the risks of long-term unemployment. By offering interim income and encouraging active job-seeking, the scheme aims to ease financial stress and boost re-employment rates in the country.
In addition, the government is promoting job-matching services, resume workshops, and training programs alongside the payout, providing a holistic support framework to help citizens upskill and re-enter the workforce.
Additional Support Available
Besides the $6,000 jobless relief, unemployed Singaporeans can also explore other aid programs such as:
- SkillsFuture Mid-Career Training Grants
- Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) for low-wage workers
- ComCare Short-Term Assistance
- Job Growth Incentive (JGI) for employers hiring older and displaced workers
Combining these schemes can offer a more comprehensive safety net during times of employment uncertainty.