In a move to enhance social support for lower-income earners, the Singapore government has rolled out the Workfare Support Scheme Basic (WSS-Basic) — a new initiative in 2025 that provides up to S$1,000 in cash payouts annually. This scheme is specifically designed to uplift lower-wage Singaporean workers, complementing existing workfare initiatives and encouraging continued employment.
Here’s a breakdown of what the WSS-Basic offers, who qualifies, and how it fits into the broader strategy to reduce income inequality in Singapore.
What Is the WSS-Basic Scheme?
The WSS-Basic is a streamlined workfare supplement designed to give lower-wage employees and casual workers additional support through automatic cash awards of up to S$1,000 per year. This amount is disbursed quarterly, providing steady financial assistance to eligible workers throughout the year.
It works alongside the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS), but targets workers who may not meet all the requirements under WIS yet still contribute meaningfully through part-time or irregular employment.
Objectives of the WSS-Basic Scheme
The scheme aims to:
- Provide consistent financial support for workers earning lower incomes
- Encourage continued employment by rewarding active participation in the workforce
- Bridge the gap for workers who may not qualify for full WIS benefits
- Complement existing CPF and employment-related schemes
This initiative is part of Singapore’s long-term approach to strengthen wage growth from the bottom up and promote inclusive employment.
How Much Will You Receive?
Eligible workers will receive up to S$1,000 per year, paid in four instalments of S$250 each. The payment schedule is expected to align with the WIS payout quarters, which typically fall in March, June, September, and December.
Payment Breakdown (2025)
| Quarter | Payout Month | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 (Jan–Mar) | March 2025 | S$250 |
| Q2 (Apr–Jun) | June 2025 | S$250 |
| Q3 (Jul–Sep) | September 2025 | S$250 |
| Q4 (Oct–Dec) | December 2025 | S$250 |
Workers will be notified via Singpass app, SMS, or hardcopy letter when each payout is credited.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for WSS-Basic in 2025, workers must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Singapore citizen
- Aged 30 and above
- Earn a gross monthly income of not more than S$2,500
- Work part-time, full-time, or on a casual basis
- Have at least 6 months of work within the previous 12 months
- Not already receiving full Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) benefits
This includes workers in the gig economy, contract jobs, or those with multiple short-term positions who often fall outside traditional employment benefit schemes.
How to Apply for the WSS-Basic Scheme
No manual application is needed. Eligible workers are automatically assessed based on:
- Central Provident Fund (CPF) contribution records
- Employment income filed via tax returns or employer declarations
- Self-employed Medisave contributions (if applicable)
Once eligibility is confirmed, the payout is disbursed directly to the worker’s bank account linked to CPF, or via GovCash for those without a registered bank.
How This Differs from the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)
The WSS-Basic scheme is not a replacement for WIS — it is a complementary scheme designed for workers who:
- Work irregular hours or in informal jobs
- Do not meet all WIS eligibility conditions (e.g. CPF contributions, age brackets)
- Need extra support in between jobs or during transitions
While WIS provides up to S$3,267 per year with a mix of cash and CPF payouts, WSS-Basic focuses purely on cash support, offering easier access for the most vulnerable groups.
Integration with Other Government Support
The WSS-Basic scheme is part of Singapore’s broader social safety net, aligning with these other initiatives:
- Progressive Wage Model (PWM): To increase base salaries in specific sectors
- Assurance Package Cash Payouts: Annual GST offset support
- Workfare Skills Support Scheme: Training incentives for upskilling
- ComCare Assistance: For low-income households in financial distress
Together, these schemes form a multi-layered approach to address inequality while maintaining a strong pro-work ethic.
Communication and Support Channels
Eligible workers will be notified through:
- Singpass inbox messages
- SMS alerts from MOM or CPF Board
- Official letters (for those not digitally connected)
- WSS-Basic page on the CPF website
For any queries, workers can call the CPF Board or visit a nearby Service Centre.
Why It Matters in 2025
As Singapore moves toward a more inclusive economy, the WSS-Basic cash award helps ensure that no worker is left behind — especially those who may be in transition, working part-time, or doing irregular jobs. The consistent quarterly payouts provide much-needed financial stability, encouraging continued employment without creating bureaucratic barriers.
For a cleaner at an office, a retail assistant on weekends, or a contract delivery rider, this S$1,000 per year can help cover essentials — from groceries and transport to medical expenses or skills training. It reinforces Singapore’s commitment to uplifting its most hardworking, yet under-recognised, citizens.