The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme, a long-standing initiative by the Singapore government since 2007, continues to play a critical role in improving the financial resilience of low-income workers, including self-employed persons (SEPs). With over S$10.5 billion disbursed to more than 1 million Singaporeans as of February 2024, the scheme has had a major impact on retirement savings, healthcare access, and income support.
As part of the latest updates for Work Year 2024, eligible SEPs can receive up to $2,800 in combined cash and MediSave payments, with changes in criteria and income thresholds taking effect in 2025.
This article outlines the eligibility criteria, payment structure, timeline, and application process for self-employed individuals seeking to benefit from the 2025 WIS payout.
Summary Table
Program Name |
Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) for SEPs |
|---|---|
Max Annual Payment |
$2,800 (for age 55 and above) |
Payment Breakdown |
10% cash, 90% MediSave contribution |
Eligibility |
Self-employed, aged ≥30, income between $500–$2,500, MediSave paid |
Payment Mode |
PayNow, registered bank account, or GovCash |
Disbursement Timing |
Annually (October of following year) |
Required Declarations |
Income to IRAS, MediSave contributions to CPF |
Official Website |
What is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
The WIS is a government initiative designed to support lower-income Singaporean workers, especially those with inconsistent or low earnings. It offers direct financial support to help with daily living expenses while promoting retirement savings through mandatory MediSave contributions.
For self-employed persons (SEPs), the scheme is particularly crucial, as they do not receive employer CPF contributions. Instead, the WIS ensures that part of their payout goes into MediSave, aiding in future medical and retirement needs.
Who Is Eligible for the $2,800 Workfare Payment in 2025?
To qualify for WIS payments, self-employed individuals must meet several criteria based on age, income, property value, and MediSave contributions.
Core Eligibility Criteria:
- Age:
Must be 30 years old or above by 31 December of the work year (or of any age if with disabilities) - Income Range:
Must earn net trade income (NTI) between $500 and $2,500 per month for the work year - MediSave Contributions:
Must contribute to MediSave based on net trade income declared - Residence and Property:
Must reside in a property with annual value not exceeding $21,000 - Spouse’s Income (if married):
Spouse must earn less than $70,000 in the preceding year
Note: Concessionary eligibility applies to caregivers and individuals with disabilities earning below $500 monthly.
Payment Breakdown: Cash and MediSave
WIS payments for SEPs consist of both cash and MediSave components:
Component |
Percentage of Total Payment |
|---|---|
Cash |
10% |
MediSave |
90% |
Payments are credited to:
- PayNow-linked bank accounts
- Registered bank accounts
- GovCash, if no account is available
Maximum Annual WIS Payment by Age (from 2023 Onwards)
Age Group |
Max Annual Payment |
|---|---|
30–34 years |
$1,400 |
35–44 years |
$2,000 |
45–54 years |
$2,400 |
55–59 years |
$2,800 |
60 years and above |
$2,800 |
The older the SEP, the higher the payout, to better assist in retirement planning.
Payment Schedule: When Will You Receive It?
WIS payments for SEPs are issued once a year, typically in October of the following year.
Timeline Example:
- Work Done in 2024 → Payment by October 2025
- Delayed Income or MediSave Declaration → Payment may be delayed until completion
How to Apply for WIS as a Self-Employed Person
The WIS scheme is not automatic for SEPs. You must declare income and contribute to MediSave to be assessed.
Step 1: Declare Net Trade Income
- Declare your NTI to IRAS (Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore)
- Declaration typically occurs between 1 August and 18 October
Step 2: Make MediSave Contributions
- Use the Self-Employed MediSave Contribution Calculator on CPF.gov.sg
- Contributions must be made by 31 December of the following year
- For 2024 work, MediSave contributions are due by December 2025
Step 3: Update Your Bank Account Information
- Ensure CPF Board has your PayNow or bank account registered
- This allows for faster and direct payment processing
Missing any of these steps may result in non-payment or delays.
Common Reasons for WIS Delay or Rejection
- Failure to declare income
- Late or insufficient MediSave contributions
- Incorrect bank details
- Spouse’s income exceeds limit (if married)
- Property annual value above threshold
Always ensure records are up to date with IRAS, CPF, and MyInfo.
Additional Support for Concessionary Groups
Individuals with special circumstances may still qualify under concessionary WIS, including:
- Persons with disabilities
- Caregivers of family members with medical needs
These individuals may receive WIS even with lower income, subject to medical or caregiving verification.
Why the WIS Program Matters
For many self-employed individuals, such as hawkers, delivery riders, freelancers, and home-based business owners, the WIS program:
- Increases financial security
- Encourages retirement savings
- Provides direct MediSave top-ups
- Reduces healthcare and medical insurance burdens
The program reflects Singapore’s commitment to inclusive growth and support for informal sector workers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How much WIS will I get as an SEP in 2025?
A: Up to $2,800 annually, depending on your age and income.
Q2: Is WIS payment automatic for self-employed persons?
A: No. You must declare your income to IRAS and make MediSave contributions.
Q3: When will I receive my WIS payout?
A: Typically by August of the following year (e.g., for 2024 income, by October 2025).
Q4: Can I receive WIS if I earn below $500/month?
A: Yes, if you are a caregiver or a person with disabilities, under the concessionary scheme.
Q5: How do I update my bank account for WIS payments?
A: Log into CPF Online Services or Singpass, and update your PayNow or bank account details.
Official Link
- Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Portal:
https://www.workfare.gov.sg
Final Thoughts
The $2,800 WIS payment in 2025 provides crucial financial assistance for Singapore’s lower-income self-employed community. With a mix of cash support and MediSave top-ups, it not only helps with daily expenses but also contributes to long-term financial security.
Self-employed persons are encouraged to:
- Declare income on time
- Make MediSave contributions
- Keep banking info updated
- Track announcements on eligibility
By meeting these requirements, eligible workers can fully benefit from this government-backed safety net.
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