With the rising cost of living, the Singaporean government is rolling out a one-time Cost-of-Living Special Payment of up to S$600 in December 2025. This initiative aims to support low- and middle-income citizens, ensuring financial stability amidst economic challenges.
The payout amount varies based on income levels and property ownership, with funds set to be automatically disbursed to eligible recipients. If you’re wondering how much you’ll get and when, here’s everything you need to know.
Key Details of the Cost-of-Living Special Payment
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Singapore citizens aged 21 and above in 2025 |
| Income Threshold | Up to S$34,000 for maximum payout |
| Property Ownership | Must not own more than one property |
| Payout Amount | Between S$200 and S$600 |
| Disbursement Date | December 2025 |
| Payment Method | Direct bank transfer or cheque |
This payout is part of the Assurance Package (AP), designed to help citizens manage essential expenses like food, transportation, and healthcare.
Who is Eligible for the S$600 Cost-of-Living Payout?
The government has set clear eligibility criteria to ensure the payment benefits those who need it most.
1. Age Requirement
- You must be 21 years old or older in 2025 to qualify.
2. Income Brackets
Your Assessable Income (AI)—the total annual income before deductions—determines the payout amount.
| Assessable Income (AI) | Payout Amount |
|---|---|
| Up to S$22,000 | S$600 |
| Between S$22,000 – S$34,000 | S$400 |
| Between S$34,000 – S$100,000 | S$200 |
| Above S$100,000 | Not eligible |
3. Property Ownership Rule
- You must not own more than one residential property.
- This ensures the payout supports Singaporeans with fewer financial assets.
How to Check Your Eligibility for the COL Special Payment
Follow these steps to determine if you qualify:
-
Check Your Assessable Income
- Log into myTax Portal to review your 2024 Year of Assessment (YA) records.
- Ensure your income falls within the eligible brackets.
-
Verify Property Ownership
- Use HDB and IRAS portals to confirm your property status.
-
Confirm Your Age
- If you are 21 years or older in 2025, you meet the age requirement.
For a detailed eligibility check, visit Gov.sg’s benefits portal.
How Will the S$600 Payout Be Disbursed?
The Singapore government has streamlined the disbursement process to ensure eligible citizens receive their payments without the need for manual applications.
- Payment Date: Funds will be disbursed in December 2025.
- Direct Bank Transfer: Payments will be automatically credited to the bank account linked to government payouts.
- Cheque Payment: Those without registered bank details will receive a cheque via mail.
Setting up direct deposit ensures faster access to the funds.
Other Government Support Initiatives
The Cost-of-Living Special Payment is one of several financial relief programs under the Assurance Package (AP).
1. Assurance Package (AP) MediSave Top-Up
- Who qualifies? Singaporeans aged 20 and below or 55 and above.
- Benefit: A S$150 annual MediSave top-up from 2023 to 2025.
- Purpose: Helps citizens manage healthcare expenses.
2. AP Seniors’ Bonus
- Who qualifies? Lower-income seniors aged 55 and above.
- Benefit: A cash bonus of S$200 to S$300 in February 2025.
- Purpose: Provides additional financial support to retirees.
These additional support measures aim to reduce financial strain for vulnerable groups.
How to Ensure a Smooth Payout Process
To avoid delays and ensure you receive your payout on time, follow these tips:
✔ Update Bank Details: Log into Gov.sg’s payment portal to verify your bank account information.
✔ Confirm Tax Filing Status: Your 2024 tax return determines eligibility—ensure it is filed correctly.
✔ Check Official Announcements: Stay updated on Gov.sg and the Ministry of Finance’s websites for the latest information.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the S$600 Cost-of-Living payout?
Singaporean citizens aged 21 and above in 2025 who meet income and property ownership criteria.
How do I check if I qualify?
Use the Gov.sg portal to check income records and property ownership status.
When will the payout be disbursed?
The payout will be deposited in December 2025.
How will I receive the payment?
- Bank Transfer: If your account is linked to government payouts, the funds will be automatically credited.
- Cheque: If no bank details are registered, you’ll receive a cheque by mail.
Will I receive the full S$600?
Not necessarily—your payout amount depends on your Assessable Income:
- Up to S$22,000: S$600
- S$22,000 – S$34,000: S$400
- S$34,000 – S$100,000: S$200
Can I get this payout if I own more than one property?
No. Only Singaporeans with one or no residential property are eligible.
Do I need to apply for the payout?
No. Eligible individuals will receive the payment automatically based on tax records.
What if I don’t receive my payout?
- Check Gov.sg’s payment status portal.
- If eligible but unpaid, contact the Ministry of Finance for assistance.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.