In a major move to support lower-income individuals, Singapore’s Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme is offering up to $2,800 in cash and CPF top-ups for self-employed persons (SEPs) in 2025. If you’re working for yourself — whether as a freelancer, hawker, delivery rider, or gig worker — you could be in line for this substantial payout.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to qualify, what the payout includes, and how to claim your money.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the 2025 Workfare Boost
- Who Qualifies for the $2,800 SEP Payout?
- Breakdown of Cash & CPF Components
- How and When Will You Get Paid?
- How to Declare Your Income for WIS
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Overview of the 2025 Workfare Boost
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is part of Singapore’s broader strategy to support lower-wage workers. For self-employed persons (SEPs), the 2025 WIS payout could total up to $2,800 annually, depending on age and income levels.
This payout is divided into cash support and CPF top-ups, and aims to encourage continued work while helping SEPs save for retirement.
Who Qualifies for the $2,800 SEP Payout?
To be eligible for the full $2,800 Workfare payout in 2025, you must:
| Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age | 30 years or older |
| Income | Net trade income (NTI) ≤ $2,500/month (or $30,000/year) |
| Work Type | Must be self-employed (e.g., gig worker, freelancer) |
| CPF Contributions | MediSave contributions must be up-to-date |
| Citizenship | Singapore citizen |
| Property Ownership | Own 1 property and not live in property with annual value > $13,000 |
Note: Those turning 30 in 2025 will only qualify from the month of their birthday.
Breakdown of the Payout: Cash + CPF
The Workfare payment is split into two parts:
| Age Group | Total WIS (Annual) | Cash Component | CPF Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–34 | Up to $1,900 | 10% ($190) | 90% ($1,710) |
| 35–44 | Up to $2,100 | 10% ($210) | 90% ($1,890) |
| 45–59 | Up to $2,500 | 10% ($250) | 90% ($2,250) |
| 60+ | Up to $2,800 | 10% ($280) | 90% ($2,520) |
The cash is paid quarterly, while the CPF component helps grow your retirement savings.
How and When Will You Get Paid?
Payouts are made every 3 months — in March, June, September, and December.
You’ll need to declare your income for 2024 (to be eligible for 2025 payments). The sooner you declare, the earlier you start receiving the payout.
Payment Timeline Example:
- Income Declaration in Jan 2025 → First payout in March 2025
- Income Declaration in May 2025 → First payout in June or September 2025
How to Declare Your Income
To get your Workfare payout, SEPs must declare their Net Trade Income (NTI) with IRAS or CPFB.
Here’s how:
- Log in to IRAS myTax Portal – Declare income online under “Form IR8A (Self-Employed)”
- Or use CPF Board’s Workfare e-Services
- Ensure MediSave contributions are made to qualify
Deadline: It’s best to declare early in 2025 to maximize your payment period.
FAQs
1. I’m a part-time food delivery rider. Am I eligible?
Yes — if your NTI is below $2,500/month and you meet the age and CPF requirements.
2. What if I turn 30 during 2025?
You’ll start receiving Workfare payments from the month you turn 30.
3. Can I receive WIS if I have both a day job and freelance income?
Yes, but your total employment and trade income will be assessed. You’ll receive the higher of the WIS payout for employed or self-employed status, not both.
Final Thoughts
The Workfare payout of up to $2,800 in 2025 is a vital support measure for Singapore’s self-employed community. From gig workers to freelancers and small business operators, this scheme acknowledges the value of all forms of work while boosting long-term financial security.
✅ Declare your income early
✅ Make your MediSave contributions
✅ Check your eligibility now