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As the cost of living continues to rise in Singapore, especially for elderly citizens, the government has taken steps to ensure that seniors receive additional financial support. In 2025, one of the key initiatives is the Silver Support Scheme, also known as the Old Age Payment. Eligible seniors can receive up to $1,080 annually in quarterly payouts to help ease their financial burdens. This guide explains who qualifies, how the scheme works, and how seniors can receive their payments.
What is the Silver Support Scheme?
The Silver Support Scheme is a long-term government initiative designed to help older Singaporeans who had low incomes throughout their working lives and now have little or no family support. It provides them with regular cash payouts to help them meet their daily living expenses. The scheme has been around for several years, but in 2025, enhancements have been made to increase both the number of people who qualify and the amount they receive. The main goal is to support seniors who may not have saved enough in their CPF accounts during their working years.
Who is eligible for the 2025 payment?
Not every senior automatically qualifies for the $1,080 Old Age Payment. There are specific eligibility criteria in place to ensure the support goes to those who need it most. Here are the key requirements in 2025
You must be a Singapore citizen aged 65 or above. Permanent residents do not qualify for this scheme.
You must have had low income throughout your working life. Typically, this means your total CPF contributions by age 55 should not exceed $140,000.
You must live in a 1- to 5-room HDB flat. Seniors who live in larger flats or private property are generally not eligible.
You must not own more than one property, and your spouse should also not own multiple properties.
Your monthly household income per person must be $2,300 or less.
In most cases, if you meet the above criteria, you do not need to apply. The government automatically assesses your eligibility using data from CPF, HDB, and other agencies. If you’re eligible, you’ll be notified and receive the payment without submitting any forms.
How much will you receive?
In 2025, eligible seniors can receive up to $1,080 per year. The payment is distributed in four equal parts across the year, which means you can receive up to $270 every three months. The amount may vary based on your household income, type of housing, and CPF contribution history. Seniors with slightly higher income or living in larger flats may receive a smaller payout. The payment schedule is quarterly, and the funds will be credited to your PayNow account, registered bank account, or via GovCash if no bank account is available.
When are the payments made?
Payments are made every quarter in the months of March, June, September, and December. If you turn 65 during the year, you will start receiving payments from the quarter in which your birthday falls. For example, if you turn 65 in April, your first payment will be made in June. The government notifies eligible seniors before each payment is made. It’s important to ensure your contact information and bank details are up to date to avoid any delays.
How do you receive the money?
There is no need to apply separately for this scheme if you meet the criteria. The government automatically checks your eligibility. Here’s how you will receive the payment
If you have linked your NRIC to PayNow, the money will be credited directly to your PayNow account.
If you do not use PayNow but have provided a bank account for other government payments, the funds will be sent there.
If you don’t have a PayNow or bank account, you will receive the payment through GovCash, which can be withdrawn at OCBC ATMs or accessed via the LifeSG app.
It’s important to make sure your bank account or PayNow registration is active and correctly linked to your NRIC. This helps you get your payment quickly and safely.
What should you do to prepare?
Although no application is required, there are a few simple steps you can take to make sure everything goes smoothly
Link your NRIC to PayNow through your bank to receive payment faster
Check that your household records with HDB and CPF are accurate and up to date
Make sure your income and property details are correct in government databases
Look out for official letters or SMS from the CPF Board or Ministry of Finance
If you have family members who may qualify, help them check their eligibility as well
Why this support matters
Many seniors in Singapore face daily financial challenges. For those who earned lower wages and did not accumulate large CPF savings, this support can make a real difference. The Silver Support Scheme is designed to give these seniors more confidence and security in their retirement years. The payout may help with essentials such as groceries, medication, transport, and utilities. It can also reduce the burden on family members who may be providing financial assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this payment affect my CPF payouts or other government schemes?
No, the Silver Support Scheme is separate from CPF Life, Workfare, and other government support. It is an additional payment and does not affect your other benefits.
What if I don’t receive a notification even though I think I qualify?
You can check your eligibility by logging in to the CPF website using your Singpass. You may also contact the CPF Board or visit a Social Service Office for assistance.
Can I receive this payment if I live with my children?
Yes, but your total household income per person must still be within the $2,300 monthly limit. If your children earn high incomes, you may not qualify based on the household income criteria.
What if I only recently turned 65?
You will start receiving payments from the quarter in which you turn 65, as long as you meet all other criteria.
Final thoughts
The Singapore Seniors Support 2025 initiative through the Silver Support Scheme offers meaningful help to elderly citizens who need it most. With a maximum of $1,080 in annual support, it helps many seniors manage rising costs and live with greater peace of mind. The scheme reflects Singapore’s ongoing commitment to supporting its aging population with dignity and care. Seniors or their caregivers should stay informed and make sure their personal and household details are up to date to ensure they receive the full benefits available to them.