A major financial boost is coming for Singapore’s self-employed population this August 2025. The government has confirmed a one-time Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) bonus of up to $2,800 for eligible self-employed persons (SEPs), aimed at supporting low-income earners and encouraging long-term participation in the workforce.
Overview
| Scheme Name | Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Bonus for SEPs 2025 |
|---|---|
| Announced By | Ministry of Finance (MOF) & Ministry of Manpower (MOM) |
| Payout Amount | Up to $2,800 |
| Payout Month | August 2025 |
| Eligible Group | Self-Employed Persons (SEPs) aged 30 and above |
| Purpose | Boost retirement savings, supplement income, reward regular CPF contributions |
Key Goals of the 2025 SEP Workfare Bonus
- Support lower-income self-employed Singaporeans with a meaningful payout.
- Encourage CPF Medisave contributions, which are often voluntary for SEPs.
- Reduce income inequality by providing additional support to working citizens outside of traditional employment structures.
- Reinforce long-term participation in the national savings and insurance ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the $2,800 Workfare Bonus in August 2025, self-employed individuals must meet the following conditions:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 30 years or older as of 31 December 2024 |
| Citizenship | Must be a Singapore Citizen |
| Work Status | Must have been actively self-employed in 2024 |
| Income Ceiling | Annual Net Trade Income (NTI) must not exceed $25,000 |
| CPF Contributions | Must have made Medisave contributions for 2024 by 31 December 2024 |
| Property Ownership | Must not own more than one property |
| Annual Assessable Income of Household Members | Should be within reasonable range (typically under $100,000 each) |
Breakdown of the $2,800 SEP Bonus
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cash Payout | $1,400 (50%) |
| CPF Medisave Top-Up | $1,400 (50%) |
| Total Bonus | $2,800 |
Note: Exact amount varies based on age and income tier. Those with lower NTI may receive a partial bonus.
Payment Timeline
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| 31 Dec 2024 | Deadline for CPF Medisave contributions for SEP eligibility |
| June–July 2025 | Notification letters and digital updates sent via Singpass |
| August 2025 | Disbursement of payouts via PayNow-NRIC or direct bank credit |
| August–September 2025 | CPF Medisave top-up reflected in CPF accounts |
How to Ensure You Qualify
Self-employed individuals are strongly advised to:
- Declare income for Year of Assessment 2024 to IRAS.
- Make Medisave contributions promptly by the December 2024 deadline.
- Update bank details and PayNow-NRIC linkage via their bank or Singpass.
- Use the CPF Workfare Checker Tool to verify estimated payout eligibility in July.
How This Bonus Fits into the Workfare Enhancement Framework
This $2,800 bonus is part of the Workfare Enhancements 2023–2025, which include:
- Raised maximum annual WIS payouts (up to $4,200 for employees and $2,800 for SEPs).
- Increased income thresholds and simplified eligibility.
- Stronger CPF Medisave incentives to help build SEP retirement and healthcare funds.
Economic & Social Impact
- Over 120,000 self-employed Singaporeans are expected to benefit.
- The payout is expected to inject $280 million into the economy.
- Promotes long-term retirement adequacy and healthcare resilience.
- Encourages better income reporting and CPF compliance among SEPs.
Common Examples of Eligible Self-Employed Workers
| Occupation | Examples |
|---|---|
| Freelancers | Tutors, graphic designers, writers |
| Private Hire/Delivery | Grab, Gojek, Lalamove riders & drivers |
| Home-based Services | Bakers, beauticians, tailors |
| Gig Workers | Online streamers, digital service providers |
| Tradesmen | Electricians, plumbers, handymen |
Conclusion
The new $2,800 Workfare Bonus for Self-Employed Persons reaffirms Singapore’s continued effort to include all working citizens—regardless of employment type—in its social support net. By tying eligibility to CPF contributions and proper income declaration, the scheme encourages financial responsibility while delivering impactful relief.
Self-employed Singaporeans should act now to ensure they meet all the necessary conditions before the December 2024 deadline.
FAQs – $2,800 SEP Workfare Bonus 2025
Q1: Do I need to apply for the SEP bonus?
No, eligible individuals will automatically be assessed and notified. Just ensure your Medisave contributions are made and income is declared.
Q2: What if I miss the Medisave payment deadline?
You will not qualify for the bonus. Make your payment by 31 Dec 2024 to be considered.
Q3: How will I receive the payment?
Cash will be paid via PayNow-NRIC or direct bank transfer; CPF top-ups will go to your Medisave.
Q4: Can I still qualify if I only started self-employment recently?
Yes, if you earned self-employed income in 2024 and meet the other criteria, you may still qualify for a prorated amount.
Q5: Where can I check my eligibility?
Use the CPF Board’s Workfare Checker or call the Workfare hotline for help.