In 2025, Singapore has introduced major enhancements to its Baby Bonus Scheme, reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to support families and address declining birth rates. This initiative aims to ease the financial burdens of parenting and create a more supportive environment for raising children.
This comprehensive article outlines the latest changes, eligibility requirements, benefits, and application procedures associated with the Baby Bonus Scheme, while also addressing frequently asked questions and clarifying other government benefits for families.
Summary of the 2025 Baby Bonus Scheme Enhancements
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cash Gift Increase | +$3,000 increase. $11,000 for 1st & 2nd child; $13,000 for 3rd & subsequent. |
| Payment Schedule | Disbursed at birth, 6, 12, 18 months, and biannually from 2 to 6.5 years. |
| CDA First Step Grant | Raised from $3,000 to $5,000 per child. |
| CDA Government Co-Matching | Increased to $4,000 (1st child) and $7,000 (2nd child). |
| Application Platform | LifeSG App or Baby Bonus Online |
| Eligible Applicants | Legally married parents with Singaporean citizen children. |
What is the Baby Bonus Scheme?
The Baby Bonus Scheme is a government initiative designed to help Singaporean parents manage the cost of raising children. It offers both direct cash support and savings incentives through a specialized account called the Child Development Account (CDA).
The core components of the Baby Bonus Scheme include:
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Cash Gift: Distributed in stages to support early development needs.
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Child Development Account (CDA): A special savings account with initial grants and government matching.
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CDA Benefits: Usable for medical, childcare, and educational expenses.
2025 Updates: What’s New?
1. Increased Cash Gift for All Children
To help offset the growing cost of living and raising a family, the Singaporean government has raised the Baby Bonus Cash Gift by $3,000 per child.
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First and Second Child: From $8,000 to $11,000
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Third and Subsequent Children: From $10,000 to $13,000
Payment Breakdown:
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Birth: $3,000 (or $4,000 for 3rd+ child)
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6, 12, and 18 months: Smaller instalments
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Biannual payments: $400 every 6 months from age 2 to 6.5
This ensures that families receive sustained financial support well into their child’s early schooling years.
2. Boosted Child Development Account (CDA) Benefits
The CDA is a dedicated account used to pay for childcare and medical needs. In 2025, key improvements include:
CDA First Step Grant:
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Previously: $3,000
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Now: $5,000
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Automatically credited when the CDA is opened.
Government Co-Matching Contributions:
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1st Child: Up to $4,000 (previously $3,000)
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2nd Child: Up to $7,000 (previously $6,000)
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3rd Child Onward: Caps remain unchanged (e.g., $9,000+)
Parents who deposit money into the CDA receive dollar-for-dollar matching from the government up to the stated caps.
Additional Support Measures in 2025
To complement the Baby Bonus Scheme, the government has introduced other reforms:
1. Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR)
Starting in 2025, this tax relief will move from a percentage-based system to a fixed-dollar format. This simplifies calculations and ensures more equitable benefits across income brackets.
2. Foreign Domestic Worker Levy Relief
Changes have been made to provide targeted support for families who hire domestic helpers to care for children or elderly family members.
These adjustments reflect Singapore’s broader goal of promoting work-life balance and improving caregiving options for working parents.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Baby Bonus Scheme:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Child’s Citizenship | Must be a Singaporean citizen. |
| Parental Marital Status | Parents must be legally married. |
| Application Timing | Can apply up to 8 weeks before the expected delivery date. |
Parents of adopted children who meet citizenship and age conditions may also qualify for benefits.
How to Apply for the Baby Bonus Scheme
The application process is streamlined through digital platforms. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
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NRICs of both parents
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Marriage certificate
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Bank account details (for direct fund transfers)
Step 2: Choose a Platform
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LifeSG App – Mobile-friendly interface for quick submissions.
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Baby Bonus Online Portal – https://www.babybonus.msf.gov.sg
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once submitted, parents receive confirmation of the CDA account opening and payment schedules. The CDA is usually opened with OCBC or UOB, and funds are deposited shortly after the child’s birth registration.
Benefits of the Enhanced Scheme
Financial Relief Across Milestones
The extended payment schedule ensures continued support, covering hospital bills, immunizations, preschool fees, and enrichment classes.
Incentivizes Early Family Planning
With benefits available from childbirth to primary school entry, the scheme encourages families to start planning earlier and worry less about financial readiness.
Supports Dual-Income Families
The scheme works in tandem with tax reliefs and caregiver support options, particularly benefiting working mothers and lower-income households.
Addressing Declining Birth Rates
Singapore’s fertility rate has been consistently below replacement level. These enhancements are part of a broader pro-family agenda aimed at:
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Encouraging higher birth rates
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Making parenthood more affordable
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Supporting long-term population sustainability
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the total amount a family can receive under the Baby Bonus Scheme?
For the first and second child, families can receive up to $11,000 in cash and a $5,000 First Step Grant, plus government co-matching of $4,000 to $7,000 in the CDA.
2. Can single parents apply for the Baby Bonus?
Single parents may not qualify for all components, as legal marriage is a condition. However, they can still open a CDA if the child is a citizen.
3. How long do I have to use CDA funds?
CDA funds can be used until the child turns 12 years old. After that, unused balances are transferred to the Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA).
4. Can foreigners or permanent residents apply?
No. Only children who are Singaporean citizens are eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme.
5. What expenses are covered by CDA?
Funds can be used at approved institutions for:
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Childcare and kindergarten
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Healthcare and immunisations
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MediSave-approved services
A full list of CDA-approved institutions can be found on the MSF website.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 enhancements to the Baby Bonus Scheme represent a strong commitment by the Singaporean government to invest in its people. By reducing the economic pressures of raising children and providing consistent, accessible support, the scheme is designed to give every child a strong start and encourage families to grow with confidence.
For more information or to apply, visit the official Baby Bonus website.
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