Singapore: S$600 One-Time Cost-of-Living Assistance
The Singapore government has approved a one-time S$600 cost-of-living assistance for eligible citizens in December 2025. This payment is provided to help cover food, electricity, public transportation, medicines, and other essential household expenses. It is an additional support to existing schemes such as GST vouchers and U-Save.
What is the goal?
This payment aims to provide temporary relief to middle- and low-income households from increased expenses at the end of the year. The amount is non-refundable and will be given as a lump-sum credit to those who qualify.
Who is eligible?
- Must be a Singapore citizen.
- Must be at least 21 years old in 2025.
- Targeting will be based on certain income and asset criteria—those with high incomes or multiple assets will receive less or no support.
- Eligibility will be automatically determined through tax and population records; no application is required.
How much and when will you receive it?
Amount: S$600 (one-time).
Timing: Credited in December 2025. Exact dates will be officially announced closer to the date.
If eligible, the full S$600 will be received at once, and this is in addition to any other assistance.
How will you receive the payment?
Main method: Directly to your bank account via PayNow NRIC. This is a fast and secure method.
Fallback: If your NRIC is not linked to PayNow, a cheque will be sent to your address by post—please deposit it at your bank as soon as you receive it.
What to do now — Simple steps to prepare
- Link NRIC to PayNow: Go to your bank’s app or internet banking and link your NRIC (National Registration Identity Card).
- Check your address and bank details: Ensure your address in IRAS and other government records is correct so checks reach the right destination.
- Keep your bank account active: Don’t close your account close to a payment.
- Enable bank notifications: Receive alerts as soon as a credit is received.
- Be careful — Avoid scams: No organization will ask for your bank password or OTP. Don’t click on unknown links; seek information only through official channels.
Wise use of money — Simple budgeting tips
- Tackle basic bills (electricity, water, gas) first.
- Set aside some money for groceries and medicine.
- Spend on transportation top-ups and child/school needs.
- Avoid high-interest loans or unnecessary expenses to maintain the benefits of the payment.
Short FAQs
Q1: Do I need to apply?
No. Eligibility will be automatically verified against government records.
Q2: What if I’m overseas or have changed banks?
Link NRIC-PayNow with your new bank details immediately; otherwise, a check will arrive.
Q3: Will PR or work pass holders receive it?
No, this is only for Singapore citizens.
Q4: Is this different from the GST Voucher?
Yes, this is a separate, one-time Cost-of-Living payment.
Conclusion
This one-time payment of S$600 will provide year-end financial support to eligible Singapore citizens in December 2025. The most important thing is to link your NRIC-PayNow, keep your address and bank details correct, and be vigilant against scams so that the payment is credited to your account smoothly and securely.
