The Singapore government is rolling out a significant update to its Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme starting in 2025, especially targeting platform workers such as food delivery riders, taxi drivers, and private hire car drivers. Unlike the previous system, where financial support came as a lump sum at the end of the year, workers will now receive monthly payouts. This new arrangement aims to improve their day-to-day financial stability, ensuring they have timely access to funds for basic needs and healthcare.
This shift comes in tandem with mandatory CPF (Central Provident Fund) contributions from platform companies, creating a smoother, more transparent system for both income reporting and benefits distribution.
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Why This Change Matters
Platform workers in Singapore typically do not receive the same protections or benefits as full-time employees. With irregular earnings and no formal employment status, many lack consistent contributions to retirement or health savings. The WIS scheme acts as a safety net by supplementing their income and building up MediSave balances for medical expenses.
The move to monthly payments ensures that workers receive help in real-time, rather than waiting until year-end — a much-needed shift for low-income individuals managing daily expenses.
Who Is Eligible for Monthly WIS in 2025?
To qualify for monthly WIS payouts, platform workers must meet several criteria:
- Singaporean citizen
- Age 30 and above (or persons with disabilities aged 15 and above)
- Earn at least $500/month
- Annual income less than $25,000 (subject to change with policy updates)
- If married, the couple must:
- Own only one property
- Spouse’s income must be below $70,000 in the latest assessment year
Special concessions apply for:
- People with disabilities
- Caregivers
- ComCare beneficiaries
These individuals can still qualify for WIS even if their monthly income is below $500.
Timeline and Payment Flow
The monthly system officially starts in March 2025, based on January 2025 earnings. Here’s how the timeline works:
| Month of Work | CPF Contributions Deducted | WIS Payment Month |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | February 2025 | March 2025 |
| February 2025 | March 2025 | April 2025 |
| … | … | … |
Payment Distribution: How Much and Where?
WIS payments will be made automatically based on income reported by platform companies. Workers do not need to apply.
Each monthly payment is split as follows:
| Portion | Use |
|---|---|
| 10% in cash | Credited to bank account or PayNow |
| 90% in MediSave | Saved for healthcare and insurance expenses |
Annual Payment Breakdown (2025–2028)
Although payments are monthly, the annual WIS amount will remain the same as that for self-employed persons (SEPs):
| Age Group / Category | Maximum Annual WIS Amount |
|---|---|
| Below 35 | Up to $2,100 |
| 35–44 | Up to $2,800 |
| 45–54 | Up to $3,100 |
| 55–59 | Up to $3,600 |
| 60 and above / Disabled | Up to $4,200 |
What If CPF Contributions Aren’t Deducted?
If your platform company does not deduct or submit CPF contributions, your WIS payout may be delayed or forfeited. In such cases:
- Contact your platform company first to clarify.
- If the issue isn’t resolved, report the matter to the CPF Board.
The government uses these monthly CPF contributions to assess income and determine eligibility for WIS payments.
Long-Term Vision: Equal Benefits for All
Between 2025 and 2028, platform workers will receive the same WIS as self-employed persons. But by 2029, if they choose to increase CPF contributions, they may become eligible for full WIS benefits, aligning them more closely with full-time employees in terms of social protection.
The WIS upgrade marks a powerful shift toward income stability and healthcare security for gig economy workers. By integrating monthly CPF reporting with financial aid, the government ensures more consistent and timely support. If you work in Singapore’s platform economy, staying informed and verifying your CPF contributions will be key to benefiting from this new system.
FAQs
What is the main change to WIS for platform workers starting in 2025?
WIS payments will be made monthly instead of annually to improve income flow and financial stability.
Do I need to apply for WIS every month?
No, the process is automatic. The CPF Board uses monthly income data reported by platform companies.
What should I do if I didn’t receive my WIS payment?
First contact your platform company. If unresolved, file a complaint with the CPF Board.
Will platform workers eventually receive the same WIS as full-time employees?
Starting in 2029, those who opt for full CPF contributions may qualify for full-time worker WIS rates.
How does WIS help with healthcare savings?
90% of the payment goes directly into MediSave, helping workers cover healthcare and insurance costs.
