Singapore’s Assurance Package continues in 2025 with direct financial support to cushion the impact of rising living costs. The S$600 Cost of Living (COL) Payment is one of its key components, aimed at helping around 2.9 million adults manage daily expenses and long-term healthcare needs.
The government has structured this support with a tiered system to ensure those in the lower- and middle-income groups receive the greatest share of assistance. With payouts reaching up to S$600, this initiative provides timely help at a critical economic moment.
Who Will Receive the S$600 COL Payment in 2025?
The payout amount is determined based on income levels and residential property ownership. The system ensures that those most financially vulnerable receive the highest support.
| Income Group & Property Status | COL Payment (S$) |
|---|---|
| Lower-income earners, 1 property | S$600 |
| Middle-income earners | S$400 |
| Higher-income or multiple properties | S$200 |
This approach reflects Singapore’s continued commitment to equity in public support schemes.
When Will the Payments Be Made?
The Cost of Living support under the Assurance Package will be disbursed in three phases during 2025:
- January 2025: Initial payout to low-income households
- June 2025: Mid-year top-ups for eligible citizens
- December 2025: Final COL payment including extra support for families with dependents
Each disbursement will be credited based on the payment method selected by the recipient. It’s important to ensure that your PayNow (NRIC-linked) or bank account is correctly registered.
How Will the COL Payments Be Delivered?
Singaporeans will receive their COL benefits using these official channels:
- PayNow: Direct deposit linked to your NRIC
- Bank Transfer: Automatic credit if bank details are registered with government systems
- Cheque: Sent only if no digital banking method is available
The government encourages all recipients to use PayNow for quicker and safer disbursements.
Additional Support in the Assurance Package 2025
Beyond cash payouts, the Assurance Package includes two major support mechanisms: MediSave top-ups and a CPF Bonus for retirement savings.
MediSave Top-Up
Singaporeans will receive enhanced MediSave contributions based on age to assist with healthcare expenses.
| Birth Year | Top-Up Amount (S$) |
|---|---|
| Born 1974 – 2003 | S$300 – S$500 |
| Born 1973 or earlier | S$1,250 – S$2,000 |
The top-up will be credited to MediSave accounts directly and can be used for hospitalization, insurance premiums, and approved outpatient services.
CPF Retirement Bonus
To strengthen retirement savings, over 800,000 older Singaporeans will benefit from a one-time CPF Bonus based on their current CPF balances.
| CPF Savings Status | Bonus Amount (S$) |
|---|---|
| Lower CPF savings | S$1,500 |
| Higher CPF savings | S$1,000 |
This payout will automatically appear in eligible CPF accounts by the end of 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for the COL Payment
To qualify for the 2025 S$600 Cost of Living Payment, citizens must meet several requirements:
- Citizenship: Singapore Citizens and select Permanent Residents
- Income:
- Low-income group: Annual income below S$22,000
- Middle-income group: Between S$22,000 and S$60,000
- Higher-income households receive a reduced amount
- Household Factors:
- Families with children or elderly members may receive higher total benefits
- Those receiving existing social support are prioritized
Eligibility can be verified using Singpass, with status updates available online.
How to Receive or Claim the COL Payment
No formal application is needed for most eligible individuals. However, the following steps are critical to avoid delays:
- Log in to gov.sg or Singpass to check eligibility
- Confirm your bank account or PayNow details
- File your income tax on time to ensure your status is correctly assessed
If you haven’t received your payout by the expected date, contact the Singapore Government help desk for resolution.
FAQs
How much is the highest payout under the 2025 COL payment scheme?
The highest amount is S$600, given to lower-income individuals with no more than one residential property.
When will I receive the S$600 payment?
The final round of payouts will be credited in December 2025, with earlier rounds in January and June for some recipients.
Do I need to apply for the COL payout?
No application is required. Payments are made automatically to those who meet the eligibility conditions and have updated banking details.
What if I don’t have PayNow?
You will receive your payout via bank transfer or cheque. However, setting up PayNow (linked to NRIC) is strongly advised.
Can Permanent Residents get the COL payment?
Only Singapore Citizens are automatically eligible. Some Permanent Residents may qualify under specific schemes.
Will I get both MediSave and CPF bonuses too?
Yes, if you meet the age and income criteria for each, you may receive the COL payment, MediSave top-up, and CPF Bonus.
Where can I check if I am eligible?
Visit gov.sg or use the Singpass app to verify your eligibility and update banking details.
Click here to know more.
