As of April 2025, Singapore has rolled out significant updates to its Baby Bonus Scheme to better support families amid rising living costs and declining birth rates. These changes aim to ease the financial stress of raising children and make parenthood a more attainable and appealing path for Singaporeans.
The updated scheme offers increased cash payouts, enhanced savings incentives, and streamlined digital application processes. Here’s a breakdown of what parents can expect in 2025.
Summary of the 2025 Baby Bonus Scheme Changes
| Feature | 2025 Update |
|---|---|
| Baby Bonus Cash Gift | Increased by S$3,000: Now S$11,000 for 1st & 2nd child, S$13,000 for 3rd & subsequent |
| Cash Payout Schedule | Disbursed at birth, 6, 12, 18 months, then every 6 months from age 2 to 6.5 |
| CDA First Step Grant | Raised from S$3,000 to S$5,000 |
| CDA Co-Matching (Govt) | Up to S$4,000 (1st child), S$7,000 (2nd child) |
| Application Platforms | LifeSG App or Baby Bonus Online |
| Eligibility | Parents must be legally married; child must be a Singapore citizen |
What Is the Baby Bonus Scheme?
The Baby Bonus Scheme is a financial initiative by the Singapore government aimed at helping parents cope with the rising cost of raising children. It includes direct cash support and savings incentives through a Child Development Account (CDA), which can be used for childcare, healthcare, and educational expenses.
The scheme has three key components:
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Cash Gift: Distributed in stages from birth through early childhood.
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Child Development Account (CDA): A matched savings account for child-related expenses.
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Government Co-Matching: Dollar-for-dollar contributions up to capped amounts based on the child’s birth order.
What’s New in 2025?
Increased Cash Gifts for Each Child
Starting this year, new parents will receive an additional S$3,000 in Baby Bonus Cash Gifts. Here’s how the revised payout looks:
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1st & 2nd Child: S$11,000 (up from S$8,000)
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3rd & Subsequent Children: S$13,000 (up from S$10,000)
Cash Disbursement Timeline:
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At Birth: S$3,000 (or S$4,000 for 3rd+ child)
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At 6, 12, and 18 Months: Subsequent smaller payouts
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From Age 2 to 6.5: S$400 every six months
This staggered schedule provides consistent financial support during a child’s most crucial developmental years.
Enhanced CDA Grants and Matching Contributions
The Child Development Account (CDA) has received two key upgrades in 2025:
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First Step Grant: Automatically credited S$5,000 (up from S$3,000) when the CDA is opened.
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Government Co-Matching:
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1st Child: Up to S$4,000
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2nd Child: Up to S$7,000
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3rd Child and beyond: Caps remain at S$9,000+
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These funds can be used for a wide range of expenses including preschool tuition, medical fees, and developmental programs.
Additional Support Introduced in 2025
Fixed-Rate Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR)
Starting this year, the WMCR moves from a percentage-based tax relief model to a flat-dollar system. This makes tax benefits simpler to understand and fairer, especially for middle-income families. The fixed relief amount will now apply uniformly, improving accessibility across income levels.
Foreign Domestic Worker Levy Relief Reforms
Changes to the levy relief framework provide more specific support for families employing domestic helpers. These updates better reflect caregiving needs in households with young children or elderly dependents, promoting better work-life balance.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2025 Baby Bonus Scheme, parents must meet these conditions:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Child’s Citizenship | Must be a Singaporean citizen |
| Marital Status | Parents must be legally married |
| Adoption | Adopted children may qualify if they meet age and citizenship rules |
| Application Period | Apply up to 8 weeks before the expected delivery date |
How to Apply for the Baby Bonus Scheme
The application is fully digital and simple to complete:
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Gather Documents:
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NRICs of both parents
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Marriage certificate
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Bank account details for payment
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Choose an Application Platform:
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LifeSG App – Mobile-friendly and fast
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Baby Bonus Online Portal – babybonus.msf.gov.sg
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Submit & Track:
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Once submitted, you’ll receive confirmation and updates on your child’s CDA account and payment schedule. CDAs are typically opened with OCBC or UOB.
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Benefits of the Enhanced Scheme
Long-Term Financial Support
The multi-stage payout ensures help is available when families need it most—during key medical, educational, and developmental milestones.
Boosts Early Family Planning
More generous and consistent financial backing from birth encourages couples to start families earlier and with more confidence.
Dual-Income & Low-Income Family Friendly
The scheme, combined with tax reliefs and caregiver support, is tailored to support both working parents and those in lower-income groups.
Response to Population Challenges
With Singapore’s birth rate still below replacement level, these policy changes are part of a long-term strategy to make starting a family less daunting.
Conclusion
The 2025 enhancements to Singapore’s Baby Bonus Scheme reflect the government’s dedication to building a family-friendly nation. From increased cash gifts to improved CDA contributions and simplified application systems, these changes make a significant impact on reducing the cost of raising children. For families planning or expecting a child in 2025, now is the best time to take full advantage of this comprehensive support.
FAQs About Singapore’s Baby Bonus Scheme 2025
What is the total payout under the Baby Bonus Scheme for the third child?
The total cash gift for a third or subsequent child in 2025 is S$13,000, paid in stages from birth until the child reaches 6.5 years.
Is the CDA grant automatic?
Yes, the S$5,000 CDA First Step Grant is automatically deposited once the Child Development Account is opened.
Can unmarried parents apply?
No, only legally married parents with a Singaporean child are eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme.
How soon can I apply?
Applications can be submitted as early as 8 weeks before the expected delivery date.
Are adopted children eligible?
Yes, adopted children may qualify as long as they are Singapore citizens and meet age criteria.
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