Starting April 2025, Singapore is launching a major support scheme for people who’ve lost their jobs.

The SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) Scheme is more than just a financial handout — it’s a smart move to help Singaporeans get back to work faster and grow their skills at the same time.

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What’s the S$6,000 Jobseeker Support Scheme?

This scheme is for Singaporeans who lost their jobs not by choice, like due to retrenchment, a company shutting down, or health issues. The government will offer up to S$6,000 in financial help over six months.

But here’s the catch (and a good one): the money is structured in a way that encourages people to find new jobs as quickly as possible.

Here’s how the payments work:

• Month 1: S$1,500
• Month 2: S$1,250
• Month 3: S$1,000
• Months 4 to 6: S$750 each month

So, the earlier you find a job, the better for your finances. The idea is to ease the pressure initially but motivate job seekers to get hired sooner.

Who Can Apply for This Scheme?

There are some clear eligibility rules for this scheme. To qualify:

• You must be a Singapore citizen aged 21 or above
  (PRs can apply starting early 2026)
• You should’ve worked at least 6 months in the past year in Singapore
• Your average income over the past 12 months must be S$5,000 or less per month
• You must live in a home that doesn’t exceed S$25,000 in annual property value
• And most importantly, you should have lost your job involuntarily

So, if you meet these criteria and actively seek work, you’re in a good position to benefit.

But Wait — You Need to Be Actively Looking for Work

This isn’t free money just for staying home. The scheme is designed to reward real job search efforts. To continue receiving payments each month, you’ll need to:

• Send job applications
• Attend career guidance sessions or workshops
• Join approved training or reskilling programs
• Take part in career coaching or attachments

All of these actions help you earn points, and these points will determine if you continue receiving support. It’s Singapore’s way of saying: “We’ll help you, but you’ve got to help yourself too.”

Extra Perks from SkillsFuture for Serious Learners

If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, there’s more good news.

Job seekers who join the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme and take up full-time courses can get a training allowance of up to S$3,000 a month for up to two years. That’s a huge boost for people looking to switch careers or build new ones.

For those aged 40 and above, there’s the Mid-Career Pathways Programme, where you can earn up to S$3,800 per month during training stints that last between four and six months.

These additional programs show that the government isn’t just giving money — they’re giving tools for long-term success.

How to Apply? Updates Are on the Way

The full application process hasn’t been released yet, but it will be shared through official government websites and the SkillsFuture platform closer to the launch. If you think you’ll be eligible, keep an eye out and get ready.

Why This Scheme Matters for Singapore?

This plan isn’t just about surviving job loss. It’s about rebuilding careers and building a future-proof workforce.

Whether you’re a mid-career worker, someone who was retrenched, or looking to restart after a break, this scheme gives a real chance to bounce back stronger.

The mix of cash aid and upskilling is what makes this approach stand out. It’s not a short-term fix — it’s a strategy to help Singaporeans stay competitive and ready for whatever comes next.

Final Thoughts

With this move, Singapore is showing that it’s serious about supporting its people through tough times — and helping them come out better on the other side.

By mixing financial support with career growth tools, the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme is one of the most forward-thinking policies in the region.

It’s not just about getting by — it’s about moving ahead.