In response to the growing gig economy, the Singapore government has introduced significant updates to the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme, aiming to provide better financial support for platform workers, including ride-hailing drivers, food delivery personnel, and freelancers. With these changes, platform workers will receive monthly payouts, and platform operators will begin making mandatory CPF contributions. These updates are set to provide financial stability and help workers with retirement and healthcare needs.
This article dives into the key changes, eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process for the updated WIS program in 2025.
Summary Table of Key Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Annual Payout | Up to SGD 3,267 depending on age and income. |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must be at least 30 years old, earn SGD 28,000 or less, and be a Singapore Citizen. |
| Application Process | No application required; eligibility is automatically assessed. |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly payouts starting in 2025. |
| Official Website | www.workforce.gov.sg |
What is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a government initiative in Singapore that was originally created to help lower-income workers by providing them with financial assistance, particularly those in traditional employment. With the rapid growth of the gig economy, the program has expanded its coverage to include platform workers—freelancers and gig economy workers who often face irregular income and lack access to traditional employee benefits like CPF (Central Provident Fund) contributions.
Starting in 2025, platform workers can look forward to several key enhancements, including monthly payouts, CPF contributions from platform operators, and greater financial security.
Key Changes to WIS in 2025
1. Monthly Payouts Instead of Annual Payments
One of the most significant changes to the WIS scheme is the transition from annual to monthly payouts. Previously, WIS payments were made on a yearly basis. However, starting in 2025, eligible platform workers will receive payouts monthly. This change ensures that workers have more consistent financial support to manage their living expenses throughout the year. For instance, work completed in January will result in a payout at the end of March, helping gig workers maintain steady cash flow.
2. CPF Contributions for Platform Workers
In a move to enhance the long-term financial security of platform workers, platform operators will be required to make mandatory CPF contributions on behalf of workers starting in 2025. This will allow gig workers to build up savings for retirement, healthcare, and housing needs—benefits that were previously unavailable to them. These deductions will be implemented gradually, with full implementation expected by 2029.
3. Increased Payouts for Older Workers
The updated WIS scheme introduces larger payouts for older workers aged 60 and above, as well as those with disabilities. These workers can now qualify for a maximum WIS payout of up to SGD 3,267 per year, providing better financial security for older gig workers who may face greater challenges in securing stable employment.
WIS Eligibility Criteria for Platform Workers (2025)
To qualify for WIS benefits, platform workers must meet the following criteria:
| Eligibility Factor | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | At least 30 years old by December 31, 2024 |
| Annual Income | Must earn SGD 28,000 or less (including Net Trade Income, NTI) |
| Income Declaration | Must declare NTI via the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) |
| Residency | Must be a Singapore Citizen |
| Employment History | Must have worked for at least two months in 2024 |
| CPF Contributions | Must make CPF contributions, including MediSave, based on NTI and age |
Who is Not Eligible for WIS?
The following individuals will not be eligible for WIS:
- Workers under the age of 30 (unless they have disabilities).
- Individuals owning multiple properties, or whose property’s annual value exceeds SGD 13,000.
- Workers earning an annual assessable income above SGD 70,000.
- Self-employed workers who hire employees.
WIS Benefits for Platform Workers in 2025
Platform workers can receive a maximum of SGD 3,267 annually, depending on their age and income. The payout is divided into cash and CPF contributions as follows:
| Age Group | Max Annual Payout | Cash Component | CPF Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-34 | SGD 1,700 | SGD 300 | SGD 1,400 |
| 35-44 | SGD 2,250 | SGD 450 | SGD 1,800 |
| 45-54 | SGD 2,850 | SGD 600 | SGD 2,250 |
| 55-59 | SGD 3,150 | SGD 750 | SGD 2,400 |
| 60+ | SGD 3,267 | SGD 800 | SGD 2,467 |
The cash portion provides immediate financial relief, while the CPF contributions allow workers to build savings for retirement, housing, and medical expenses.
Revised WIS Payment Schedule
With the introduction of monthly payouts, the revised schedule is as follows:
| Month Worked | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | End of March |
| February | End of April |
| March | End of May |
| Month X | End of Month X+2 |
To avoid delays in receiving payments, workers need to declare their income on time and ensure they make MediSave contributions.
MediSave Contribution Requirements
To qualify for WIS, platform workers must make MediSave contributions based on their NTI and age. For those earning SGD 6,000 or less in NTI, the following contributions apply:
| Age Range | MediSave Contribution |
|---|---|
| 30-34 | SGD 240 |
| 35-44 | SGD 270 |
| 45-49 | SGD 300 |
| 50+ | SGD 315 |
For workers earning above SGD 6,000 in NTI, higher contributions are required. Workers can choose flexible payment options, such as lump-sum payments or GIRO installments.
Steps to Qualify for WIS
Platform workers who wish to receive WIS benefits must follow these steps:
- Declare Your Income: Use the myTax Portal to declare your income.
- Calculate CPF Contributions: Use the CPF WIS Calculator to determine the required CPF contributions.
- Ensure CPF Deductions: Ensure that the platform operator is making the necessary CPF deductions. If there are issues, report them to the CPF Board.
- Automatic Assessment: No need to apply for WIS—eligibility will be automatically assessed based on income data from platform operators.
- Track Contributions: Use Singpass to track your NTI and MediSave contributions on the CPF self-employed dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is eligible for the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
- Platform workers who are at least 30 years old, earn SGD 28,000 or less, and meet the CPF contribution requirements are eligible.
2. How are WIS payments disbursed?
- WIS payments will be made monthly, with payouts following a two-month delay from the month worked.
3. Can I receive WIS if I am a gig worker under 30?
- No, workers under 30 are not eligible for WIS unless they have disabilities.
4. What if I miss the deadline for income declaration?
- Missing the deadline could result in delays in receiving payments. Make sure to declare your income on time through the myTax Portal.
5. Are gig workers required to contribute to CPF?
- Yes, platform operators will be required to make mandatory CPF contributions for gig workers starting in 2025.
Conclusion
The 2025 updates to Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme provide a crucial lifeline to platform workers, who are often left without the stability and benefits of traditional employment. With the introduction of monthly payouts, mandatory CPF contributions, and increased payouts for older workers, the new WIS system offers a more structured and sustainable source of financial support for gig economy workers.
While the scheme provides immediate financial relief, it also encourages long-term savings and retirement planning. However, it is important for platform workers to ensure timely income declaration and make MediSave contributions to avoid delays in receiving benefits.
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