To help Singaporeans manage rising expenses, the government is introducing a $600 Cost of Living (COL) Support payout in 2025. This cash assistance aims to provide timely relief to households affected by inflation and global economic uncertainties.
The payout is part of Singapore’s broader Assurance Package, offering additional support to lower- and middle-income families. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect, who qualifies, and how the support will be delivered.
Quick Overview
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Support Amount | Up to $600 per eligible citizen |
| Payout Timeline | From August 2025 onwards |
| Eligibility | Based on income, property ownership, and citizenship |
| Payout Method | PayNow, Bank Transfer, or GovCash |
| Part of Larger Scheme | Assurance Package + Other Relief Measures |
What Is the $600 Cost of Living Support?
The $600 payout is part of the government’s Assurance Package, designed to offset the rising cost of living in Singapore. This one-time cash payment is non-taxable and gives citizens the flexibility to use it however they choose—on groceries, utilities, school expenses, or daily essentials.
It reflects Singapore’s continued commitment to supporting its residents during challenging economic conditions and maintaining affordability for all.
Who Is Eligible?
To receive the full or partial $600 payout, Singaporeans must meet these criteria:
- Must be a Singapore citizen
- Aged 21 or above by 31 December 2025
- Have an Assessable Income (AI) of $100,000 or less (based on Year of Assessment 2024)
- Must not own more than one property
Eligibility Summary
| Category | Eligible? |
|---|---|
| Income ≤ $34,000 and 1 or no properties | Yes – Full $600 payout |
| Income between $34,001 – $100,000 | Yes – Partial payout |
| Income above $100,000 | Not eligible |
| Owns more than one property | Not eligible |
When Will the Money Be Paid Out?
The $600 payout will be disbursed starting from August 2025. Specific payout dates will be announced by the Ministry of Finance closer to the distribution window.
No application is needed. Payouts will be processed automatically using data from IRAS, HDB, and other government sources.
How Will You Receive the Money?
Eligible Singaporeans will receive their payout through one of the following methods:
- PayNow (linked to NRIC) – fastest and preferred method
- Direct bank transfer – for those not registered on PayNow
- GovCash – for individuals without a bank account
Notifications will be sent via SMS or Singpass once the payout is successfully credited.
Other Financial Support in 2025
In addition to the COL payout, the government will continue to provide other forms of support to households in 2025:
CDC Vouchers
- Up to $600 worth of vouchers
- Can be used at participating hawker stalls, heartland shops, and supermarkets
U-Save Rebates
- Quarterly rebates for utility bills
- Up to $285 a year in savings for eligible HDB households
S&CC Rebates
- Service & Conservancy Charges rebates
- Available for eligible 1- to 5-room HDB flat owners
These schemes provide well-rounded support across essential needs like food, energy, and household maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to apply for the payout?
No, the payout will be credited automatically if you meet the eligibility criteria.
How will I know if I’m getting the payout?
You will receive a notification through SMS or your Singpass account.
What if I don’t have PayNow?
You’ll still receive the payout via bank transfer or GovCash, depending on your banking status.
Are Permanent Residents or foreigners eligible?
No. The payout is only for Singapore citizens.
Final Thoughts
The $600 Cost of Living Support payout in 2025 is a meaningful and timely initiative aimed at helping Singaporeans manage rising living costs. For many households, this cash support will ease the pressure of monthly expenses and offer financial breathing room.
Combined with CDC vouchers, U-Save rebates, and S&CC support, the COL payout forms part of a larger, coordinated effort to ensure economic stability and affordability for Singaporean families.
Keep your bank and Singpass details up to date, and look out for the official payout announcement coming this August.