Starting 28 October 2025, eligible Singaporean households will receive a $190 Cost of Living (COL) Top-Up as part of the government’s Budget 2025 Assurance Package. This one-time payment aims to help low- and middle-income residents manage everyday expenses amid persistent inflation pressures affecting essentials like food, transport, and utilities.
The payout reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to cushioning Singaporeans from rising prices while supporting families through direct cash assistance programs.
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Singapore $190 Cost of Living Top-Up 2025
The $190 Cost of Living Top-Up complements existing schemes such as the GST Voucher, U-Save rebates, and CDC vouchers. Together, these initiatives form a comprehensive safety net for citizens dealing with inflation and higher living costs.
According to the Ministry of Finance, about 1.5 million households will benefit, particularly seniors, single-income families, and residents in smaller HDB flats. For many, this extra top-up will offer timely relief as prices of everyday goods continue to climb.
Overview
| Scheme Name | Cost of Living (COL) Top-Up 2025 |
|---|---|
| Authority | Ministry of Finance (MOF), Singapore |
| Payment Date | From 28 October 2025 |
| Payment Amount | Up to $190 per eligible household |
| Eligibility | Singaporeans aged 21+ earning ≤ $34,000 annually, owning ≤ 1 property |
| Mode of Payment | Direct deposit via PayNow-NRIC or government-linked bank accounts |
| Official Website | go.gov.sg/assurancepackage |
Eligibility Criteria
The payment is designed to reach those most affected by higher living costs. Eligibility is automatically determined through existing government records — no applications are required.
| Category | Eligibility Criteria | Payment Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (21+) | Annual income ≤ $34,000, owning ≤ 1 property | $190 |
| Seniors (65+) | Residing in 1–3 room HDB flats, receiving Silver Support | $190 + additional top-up |
| Youth (21–30) | Annual income ≤ $24,000 | $190 |
| Multi-property Owners | Own more than 1 residential property | Not eligible |
Seniors and lower-income groups living in smaller flats will receive the full $190, and may also benefit from additional support under other schemes like Silver Support or GST Vouchers.
Payment Method and Schedule
Payments will begin on 28 October 2025, and will be made directly into eligible citizens’ PayNow-NRIC-linked bank accounts or government-linked accounts (for those who receive other public payouts).
Citizens are advised to verify their PayNow-NRIC linkage and MyInfo records by 24 October 2025 to avoid delays. No cheques or cash payments will be issued, ensuring a fast and secure transfer process.
Those who do not have PayNow-NRIC can update their details through participating banks before the deadline to receive their funds on time.
Why the $190 COL Top-Up Matters
The new payout comes at a critical time as Singapore continues to manage inflationary pressures that have pushed up the cost of essential items. The $190 payment offers direct financial relief to residents whose budgets are stretched by higher prices for groceries, utilities, and transport.
For many lower-income families and retirees, this top-up represents more than a short-term subsidy — it’s a measure of reassurance that the government remains responsive to citizens’ needs.
It also aligns with Singapore’s long-term strategy of providing targeted support rather than blanket subsidies, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.
Integration with Other Assistance Schemes
The Cost of Living Top-Up is not a standalone initiative but part of a broader suite of measures under the Assurance Package. Beneficiaries can expect this top-up to work alongside other government benefits, including:
- GST Voucher – Cash and U-Save rebates to offset utility bills.
- CDC Vouchers to help cover everyday essentials at participating merchants.
- Silver Support Scheme for low-income elderly Singaporeans.
This integrated approach ensures that residents receive multi-layered support covering essential needs from groceries to healthcare.
Important Reminders for Recipients
Eligible Singaporeans are encouraged to complete these steps ahead of the disbursement date:
- Verify PayNow-NRIC linkage by 24 October 2025.
- Check MyInfo details to ensure that all information is up to date.
- Avoid scams by ignoring messages or links claiming early access or alternative registration.
All official information and updates will be available only through the official government site and legitimate government communication channels.
Wider Impact on Singaporean Households
By providing an additional $190 to eligible citizens, the government aims to stabilize consumer confidence and ease short-term financial strain. This initiative ensures that vulnerable households continue to receive steady assistance without needing to apply or submit extra paperwork.
With over a million residents expected to benefit, the payout highlights Singapore’s proactive approach to economic inclusivity and inflation management.
The Cost of Living Top-Up strengthens the social safety net and reassures citizens that the government will continue to step in when inflation bites hardest.
FAQs
A = No. Eligible Singaporeans will receive the payment automatically.
A = Payments begin from 28 October 2025 directly into linked bank accounts.
A = Individuals earning above $34,000 annually or owning more than one property.
