In a big win for Singapore’s gig economy and low-income workforce, the government has introduced a new $1,000 cash support plan in 2025. Aimed at uplifting informal and lower-wage workers, this initiative offers much-needed relief amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
The move signals a major step forward in recognizing the contributions of workers often excluded from traditional support systems — such as delivery riders, cleaners, stall assistants, and part-time workers. Here’s everything you need to know about this latest payout scheme and how to check if you’re eligible.
Why This $1,000 Cash Plan Matters
The COVID-19 pandemic and economic shifts have highlighted the vulnerabilities of informal and lower-wage sectors. While Singapore has provided various assistance schemes in recent years, many gig and part-time workers have fallen through the cracks.
This new $1,000 cash plan, introduced under the broader Progressive Support Package, is designed to:
- Provide direct financial relief to workers in informal jobs
- Recognize non-traditional forms of employment in a modern economy
- Boost income security for low-wage earners
- Encourage job resilience and training participation
The payout also complements ongoing efforts like the Workfare Income Supplement and SkillsFuture support.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,000 Support?
The plan targets informal workers and low-wage Singaporeans who may not qualify for CPF-linked assistance. Here’s a quick look at the eligibility criteria:
✅ Must be a Singapore Citizen
✅ Aged 30 and above
✅ Engaged in informal work or earning a monthly income below $2,500
✅ Not already receiving high levels of CPF contributions
✅ May include delivery riders, hawkers’ assistants, freelance service workers, cleaners, and more
You must have worked at least 3 consecutive months over the last 6 months to qualify, even if part-time or freelance.
How Will the $1,000 Be Disbursed?
The government will provide the $1,000 in two tranches:
- $500 in July 2025
- $500 in October 2025
Payments will be made via PayNow-NRIC or direct bank transfer linked to the CPF system. Applicants without a registered account will be notified to complete verification via Singpass or their nearest Social Service Office (SSO).
This staggered disbursement encourages continued work engagement and helps recipients plan their monthly expenses more effectively.
How to Apply or Check Eligibility
Unlike automatic schemes such as the GST Voucher, this plan requires basic self-declaration of employment status for verification.
Application steps:
- Visit the official portal at www.supportgowork.gov.sg
- Log in with your Singpass credentials
- Fill out a short form declaring your job type and income range
- Submit supporting documents (e.g. recent payslips, screenshots of gig work earnings)
- Wait for eligibility confirmation via SMS or email within 2 weeks
Alternatively, workers without digital access can head to their local CC or SSO, where staff will assist with applications.
What If You Also Qualify for Other Support?
Great news — this $1,000 cash assistance does not affect your eligibility for:
- Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)
- Assurance Package payouts
- Silver Support Scheme (for seniors)
- ComCare or other social assistance
In fact, many workers could receive over $1,800 in combined benefits this year when stacking this new payout with other schemes.
What the Government Is Saying
According to the Ministry of Manpower and the Ministry of Finance, this initiative is part of a long-term shift toward inclusive employment recognition:
“We understand that many Singaporeans are working hard in flexible or non-standard jobs. This payout recognises their contributions and provides a cushion as we strengthen support for all types of workers,” a joint statement noted.
Officials also hinted at more permanent assistance options for informal workers in future budgets.
Stories from the Ground
For many gig workers, this support couldn’t have come at a better time.
Mr. Azmi, a 47-year-old delivery rider, shared:
“Rain or shine, I’m out there riding to support my family. This $1,000 helps a lot — I can use it for groceries, school supplies, and bills.”
Likewise, Mdm Ong, a part-time cleaner at a hawker centre, said:
“I don’t have CPF and I’m not covered by most schemes. This is the first time I’m getting direct help — I feel seen.”
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s new $1,000 cash support plan is a timely and powerful gesture — one that finally brings gig and informal workers into the fold of national support. As the nature of work continues to evolve, this scheme sets the stage for more inclusive, flexible, and worker-friendly policies in the years to come.
📅 Applications are open now — don’t miss your chance to claim what you’ve earned