In recent years, Singapore’s gig economy has grown rapidly. Ride-hailing drivers, food delivery riders, and freelancers have become essential to everyday life. Yet many of these workers still face unstable incomes, job insecurity, and limited access to traditional social protections. To address this, the government has improved the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme, offering eligible workers up to $3,267 a year starting in 2024. The initiative helps stabilise incomes and strengthen CPF savings for platform workers.

Major Upgrades Introduced Under WIS 2025

With gig workers in mind, the 2025 WIS brings meaningful changes. Among them are monthly payouts, mandatory CPF contributions by platform companies, and higher payouts for older workers and persons with disabilities. These enhancements aim to close the protection gap that gig and freelance workers often face.

Monthly Disbursements for Better Financial Planning

One standout reform is the move from annual to monthly payouts. Workers will now receive payments two months after the income month. For example, earnings from January 2025 will be paid by end-March 2025. Funds will be credited via PayNow linked to NRIC, or GovCash for those without bank accounts. This update brings greater income predictability and helps workers manage living costs more consistently.

Platform Operators to Begin CPF Contributions

From 2025 onward, CPF contributions will be mandatory for platform workers, with deductions handled by platform operators. The CPF rollout will phase in gradually and complete by 2029. Contributions will go into workers’ Ordinary Account, Special Account, and MediSave, supporting goals like home ownership, medical needs, and retirement planning. This change ensures gig workers receive the same long-term benefits as traditional employees.

Enhanced Support for Older Workers and Persons with Disabilities

To better support vulnerable groups, workers aged 60 and above and those with disabilities will receive the full $3,267 annual payout. This increased amount reflects the additional costs these groups often face, especially in healthcare and daily living.

Recognising and Supporting Singapore’s Gig Workforce

The upgraded WIS scheme extends critical protections to gig workers who typically miss out on employment benefits. It covers ride-hailing drivers with Grab and Gojek, food delivery riders with Deliveroo and Foodpanda, and freelancers working through digital platforms. These improvements reflect Singapore’s commitment to ensuring all workers—regardless of job type—can access income support and retirement savings.

Qualification Criteria for the 2025 WIS Scheme

To be eligible, platform workers must:

• Be Singapore citizens aged 30 or older as of 31 December 2024 (no age limit for persons with disabilities)
• Have an annual income not exceeding $28,000, including Net Trade Income (NTI)
• Be active for at least two months in 2024
• Fulfill mandatory CPF and MediSave contributions

However, workers under 30 without disabilities, owners of properties valued above $13,000 annually, and those with assessable income over $70,000 are excluded.

Payouts Based on Age and CPF Contribution Levels

The amount workers receive depends on age:

• Ages 30–34: Up to $1,700 per year
• Ages 60 and above: Up to $3,267

Payouts include both cash (for immediate use) and CPF deposits (for long-term savings). To remain eligible, workers must also make MediSave contributions of $240–$315 annually, depending on age and income.

Consistent Monthly Payment Schedule

The revised WIS scheme ensures monthly payments that correspond with work performed, disbursed two months later. Payments go mainly through PayNow, with GovCash as a backup. This regular cycle reduces uncertainty and helps workers plan their finances more effectively.

Helping Gig Workers Build Financial Security

Beyond WIS payouts, gig workers are urged to take extra steps to safeguard their finances. Key practices include:

• Keeping accurate records of income and spending
• Using CPF savings effectively
• Building an emergency fund
• Exploring private insurance options

With smart financial planning, workers can maximise the WIS benefits and protect against future risks.

Moving Toward Inclusive Growth for All Workers

The 2025 upgrades to the Workfare Income Supplement mark a major stride in protecting Singapore’s evolving workforce. With regular payouts, enhanced CPF contributions, and stronger support for vulnerable groups, the government shows it’s serious about inclusion.

As the gig economy continues to grow, WIS stands out as a symbol of fair growth and social protection, giving every worker—no matter how they earn—a real chance to build a secure financial future.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.