In a much-anticipated move to provide relief amid rising expenses, the Singapore government has announced a S$490 Cost of Living (COL) Special Payment for eligible residents in 2025. Targeted at helping Singaporeans cope with inflation and increased household costs, the one-off payout will benefit approximately 1.2 million individuals from lower- to middle-income groups. This financial support is part of the broader Assurance Package, rolled out to cushion Singaporeans from the effects of higher GST and global economic uncertainties.
A Timely Boost for Struggling Households
With living expenses escalating due to inflation, supply chain disruptions, and energy costs, many Singaporeans particularly those in lower-income brackets have found themselves tightening budgets to make ends meet. The S$490 payment aims to ease this burden for individuals most affected, ensuring they receive tangible help with essentials such as groceries, utility bills, medical needs, and transport.
The Cost of Living payment comes as part of Singapore’s commitment to inclusive growth and social protection. The government has repeatedly affirmed that no citizen should be left behind in the face of global price pressures, especially those whose wages or savings have not kept pace with cost increases.
Who Is Eligible for the S$490 Payment?
The S$490 payout is not universal, and eligibility is based on specific income and housing criteria. Singaporean citizens aged 21 and above in 2025 will qualify if their assessable income for the previous Year of Assessment is up to S$100,000 and they do not own more than one property. In general, most recipients of the earlier Assurance Package support, including those living in HDB flats, will also qualify for this new payout.
The Ministry of Finance has reassured the public that eligibility checks are automatic for most residents. Those who qualify will receive notification via Singpass, SMS, or mail. No separate application is required unless your personal details have changed or were not updated in the government’s system.
When and How Will the Payment Be Made?
The S$490 Cost of Living Payment is scheduled to be disbursed in mid-2025, directly into bank accounts that are already linked to government payouts through PayNow or GIRO. Individuals who are not yet enrolled in these systems are encouraged to link their NRIC to PayNow promptly or update their bank details on the government portal to avoid delays.
This payment is part of a larger financial assistance plan, which also includes GST Voucher payouts, CDC vouchers, and MediSave top-ups throughout the year. Together, these measures form a critical buffer for Singaporeans feeling the pinch of rising day-to-day expenses.
Checking Your Eligibility List and Payment Details
While most eligible individuals will be informed automatically, you can verify your eligibility and payment details through the official government site at go.gov.sg, using your Singpass credentials. For seniors or those less familiar with digital platforms, community centres and public service offices are available to assist with verification and registration help.
Authorities have stressed the importance of ensuring personal information, such as income declaration and address, is up to date with IRAS and HDB records, as this data is used to assess eligibility.
More Than Just a Payout – A Commitment to Support
While the S$490 may not seem like a massive sum to some, it carries significant value for many families balancing bills and daily expenses. The move underscores Singapore’s approach to proactive and targeted social aid providing meaningful, direct support while maintaining fiscal discipline.
This payment also reinforces the government’s broader Assurance Package strategy, which extends into housing, healthcare, and retirement security. As cost pressures continue to evolve, citizens can expect further adaptive measures to ensure that Singapore remains an equitable and resilient society for all.