The gig economy in Singapore has seen exponential growth, with over 200,000 workers contributing to industries such as transportation, delivery, and freelancing. These platform workers are essential to Singapore’s economic ecosystem but often face challenges due to irregular income and limited access to benefits like CPF contributions.
Recognizing these issues, the Singapore government launched the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) to offer targeted financial support to low-income workers. The initiative has undergone significant reforms to address the specific needs of platform workers. Starting from 2025, WIS payments will be issued monthly, providing more consistent support.
Singapore Workfare Income Supplement Program
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) is a financial assistance program designed to support lower-income workers by supplementing their income and CPF savings. It is particularly beneficial for platform workers, who often work on contract-based terms with little financial stability.
From 2025, significant reforms will ensure that platform workers receive financial assistance more frequently and that their CPF contributions align with those of traditional employees.
Changes to WIS for Platform Workers
- Monthly Payments – One of the most notable reforms is the shift from annual to monthly payments. This change ensures that workers receive consistent financial assistance, helping them manage living expenses more effectively.
- CPF Contribution – Another critical change is the introduction of mandatory CPF contributions by platform operators. These contributions will be deducted monthly, promoting long-term financial security for workers by building their retirement and healthcare savings.
- Parity in CPF and WIS Benefits by 2029 – From 2029, platform workers who voluntarily or mandatorily contribute more to CPF will receive WIS benefits at the same level as regular employees. This aims to create parity between gig workers and traditional employees, reducing financial disparities.
Who Is Eligible for WIS?
To qualify for WIS, platform workers must meet specific criteria regarding their citizenship, age, income, and property ownership.
- Must be a Singapore Citizen.
- Workers must be at least 30 years old by the end of the work year.
- Persons with disabilities can qualify regardless of age.
- Gross monthly income must be between $500 and $3,000 for the past 12 months.
- The worker must reside in a property with an annual value not exceeding $21,000.
- Married workers must ensure that the combined assessable income of both spouses does not exceed $70,000.
Workers with disabilities may qualify for the WIS scheme even if their income falls below the $500 threshold. This provides additional support to individuals who face employment barriers.
How Much Can Platform Workers Receive?
The amount of WIS varies based on the worker’s age. The table below provides a breakdown of maximum payouts:
| Age Group | Maximum WIS Per Year |
|---|---|
| 30 – 34 | $1,633 |
| 35 – 44 | $2,333 |
| 45 – 59 | $2,800 |
| 60 and above | $3,267 |
For persons with disabilities, the maximum amount matches the payout for workers aged 60 and above.
Allocation of Payments
WIS payments are divided into two portions:
- 10% Cash: Directly deposited into the worker’s PayNow-linked NRIC account, registered bank account, or GovCash.
- 90% MediSave: Allocated to the worker’s MediSave account to support future healthcare needs.
This allocation ensures that workers have both immediate and long-term financial support.
Payment Timelines
Starting in March 2025, WIS payments will be made monthly. The table below outlines the payment timeline:
| Month Worked | Payment Received by | Via PayNow/Bank | Via GovCash |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | End of March | 1st Week of April | 1st Week of April |
| February | End of April | 1st Week of May | 1st Week of May |
| March | End of May | 1st Week of June | 1st Week of June |
For work done in 2024 or earlier, workers will be paid under the guidelines applicable to Self-Employed Persons (SEPs).
Steps to Ensure WIS Eligibility
Platform workers do not need to apply for WIS. The CPF Board will automatically assess their eligibility based on declared income from platform operators.
If a platform operator is not making CPF contributions, workers should raise the issue directly with the operator. If unresolved, they can escalate the matter to the CPF Board for assistance.
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme for platform workers is a significant step in improving financial security for those engaged in gig work. With monthly payments, mandatory CPF contributions, and enhanced eligibility criteria, the program is designed to bridge the gap between gig workers and traditional employees.
As the reforms roll out in 2025, platform workers can look forward to greater stability and support, ensuring a more equitable and inclusive workforce in Singapore.