$2,800 Workfare Support for Singapore’s Self-Employed: A Complete Guide

In Singapore, the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme plays a crucial role in enhancing the financial security of self-employed persons (SEPs). This initiative is designed to provide a financial boost for lower-income workers, supporting both their current financial needs and long-term healthcare savings. Through this program, eligible self-employed individuals can receive a maximum of $2,800 annually.

The payout is divided into two parts: 10% in cash and 90% in MediSave contributions, which are directed toward the individual’s healthcare and retirement needs. Let’s take a deep dive into the WIS scheme, how it works, who qualifies, and how to maximize the benefits.

Quick Summary of the WIS Scheme

Aspect	Details
Maximum Annual Payout	$2,800
Payout Structure	10% cash, 90% MediSave contributions
Eligibility Criteria	Self-employed persons aged 30+ (or with disabilities) with annual net trade income of $500–$2,500 (from 2025, income ceiling will increase to $3,000)
Application Process	Income declaration and MediSave contributions required
Enhancements (2025)	Increase in income ceiling to $3,000, higher payouts for eligible SEPs
Reference	CPF Board’s WIS Page

What Is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme?

The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme is an important initiative by the Singapore government aimed at improving the financial well-being of low-income workers, particularly those who are self-employed. This scheme provides financial assistance through a combination of cash payments and MediSave contributions, which are credited directly to the recipient’s MediSave account to cover medical expenses and contribute to retirement savings.

WIS is designed to address the specific challenges that self-employed individuals face by providing targeted support. By making sure that SEPs benefit both immediately and in the long term, the WIS scheme encourages better financial planning, savings for medical needs, and more secure retirement options.

Also Read: Singapore GST Vouchers 2025: Payout Amount, Eligibility & Payment Dates

Eligibility Criteria

To benefit from the Workfare Income Supplement, self-employed individuals must meet certain criteria. These criteria are in place to ensure that the benefits are directed toward those who need them most. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility requirements:

1. Age Requirement

• Applicants must be 30 years old or older by December 31 of the work year.
• There is no minimum age requirement for individuals with disabilities. This ensures that persons with disabilities can also benefit from the scheme, regardless of their age.

2. Income Range

• To qualify for the WIS, self-employed persons must have an annual net trade income that falls between $500 and $2,500.
• Starting in 2025, the income ceiling will be increased to $3,000, meaning more SEPs will be able to access the benefits of this scheme.

3. MediSave Contributions

• To receive WIS benefits, applicants must have up-to-date MediSave contributions for the work year. MediSave is a mandatory savings account used to fund healthcare needs, and these contributions are essential to ensuring that SEPs have the necessary savings for future medical expenses.

4. Property Ownership

• For property ownership, applicants can own only one property with an annual value of $21,000 or less.
• If the applicant is married, the couple may only own one property, and the spouse’s assessable income must not exceed $70,000.

Also Read: S$600 Singapore Cost of Living Payment 2025: Eligibility, Payout Dates & Latest Updates

How Are Payments Structured and Distributed?

The Workfare Income Supplement payout is structured to offer both immediate financial assistance and long-term savings benefits. The distribution is divided into two components: a cash payment and contributions to MediSave.

1. Cash Payment (10%)

• 10% of the total payout is provided in cash. This payment is typically made directly to the SEP via PayNow, a registered bank account, or GovCash if the SEP does not have a bank account registered with CPF. This cash portion is intended to help with immediate financial needs such as daily expenses.

2. MediSave Contribution (90%)

• 90% of the payout is credited directly to the SEP’s MediSave account, which helps build the individual’s savings for medical expenses and retirement. MediSave is a mandatory health savings account in Singapore, and contributions made under the WIS scheme can provide a much-needed boost to healthcare planning.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for WIS

The application process for the Workfare Income Supplement is relatively simple, but there are certain steps that self-employed individuals need to follow to ensure that they qualify and receive their benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Declare Your Income

• SEPs are required to file their annual net trade income on March 1 and April 18 with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) between each year. This income declaration is essential for eligibility and must be accurate.

2. Make MediSave Contributions

• Ensure that all required MediSave contributions for the relevant work year have been made. Contributions can be paid online through the CPF website. These contributions must be made on time for eligibility to be confirmed.

3. Update Bank Account Details

• Make sure your bank account details are registered with CPF. This ensures that the cash payout is credited directly to your account without delays.

4. Check Your Eligibility

• You can check your eligibility status online via the CPF Board website or by calling their customer service hotline for more assistance. It’s important to stay updated on your eligibility to avoid any confusion.

Upcoming Changes to the WIS Scheme (2025)

The Singapore government continuously reviews the effectiveness of its financial support schemes, and in 2025, several enhancements to the WIS scheme will take place. These changes aim to provide even more financial relief and widen access to the scheme.

Key Enhancements Include:

• Higher Income Ceiling:
  • The annual net trade income of the ceiling increases from $2,500 to $3,000, allowing a larger number of self-employed individuals to qualify for the scheme.
• Increased Payouts:
  • Payouts will be adjusted to reflect inflation and the ever-changing economic conditions, ensuring that the support remains relevant and impactful for SEPs.

These changes demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving financial security for self-employed individuals.

Benefits of the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)

The WIS scheme offers a range of financial benefits for eligible self-employed persons. Here are the primary advantages:

1. Immediate Financial Support

• The cash portion of the payout helps SEPs meet immediate financial needs, providing relief for daily living expenses.

2. Enhanced Healthcare Savings

• The MediSave contribution helps SEPs save for future medical expenses, ensuring they have adequate funds for healthcare and retirement.

3. Encouragement of Income Transparency

• The scheme encourages self-employed persons to declare their income accurately, promoting greater transparency and fostering a more equitable society.

4. Support for Retirement Goals

• MediSave contributions also contribute to long-term retirement planning, enhancing CPF savings and securing financial stability in later years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about WIS

1. How do I check if I am eligible for WIS?
   • You can check your eligibility on the CPF Board website or by contacting their customer service hotline for assistance.
2. Do I need to apply for WIS every year?
   • Typically, you do not need to apply every year if you are already eligible. However, you must ensure that your income declaration and MediSave contributions are up to date each year.
3. What should I do if I miss the income declaration deadline?
   • If you miss the deadline, you may not be eligible for the WIS payout for that year. Make sure to file your income on time to avoid delays.
4. Can I apply for WIS if I own more than one property?
   • You can only apply for WIS if you own one property with an annual value of $21,000 or less. If you are married, the couple must adhere to the same property limits, and the spouse’s income must not exceed $70,000.

By following the application process, meeting the eligibility requirements, and staying informed about upcoming changes, self-employed individuals can make the most of the $2,800 Workfare Income Supplement. This scheme offers a valuable opportunity for improved financial stability and long-term security, ensuring that SEPs have the support they need to thrive.

Click here to learn more