From 14 January to 31 October 2025, eligible lower-income households in Singapore can apply for the upgraded Public Transport Vouchers (PTVs) now worth up to S$90 per household, a jump from the previous S$60. These vouchers aim to cushion the impact of fare hikes and rising daily expenses by supporting everyday commutes on buses and MRTs. Each household may apply once, even if composed of multiple individuals, and vouchers can be shared across family members via PayNow linked travel cards.
Why Are Transport Vouchers Now More Powerful?
The justification is clear, public transport fares have risen about 6% since late December 2024, part of an ongoing effort to offset system costs. But to prevent undue burden, the Government has stepped in deploying over S$1 billion in annual subsidies for both bus and train services, plus a S$250 million special subsidy to soften this most recent fare hike. The enhanced PTVs are a direct, household-level relief mechanism, helping citizens manage their everyday transport costs.
Expanded Eligibility & Application Phases
The 2025 PTV rollout continues a two-stage approach the first automatic disbursement to those who previously qualified, the second from January 14, 2025, for households newly meeting the income criteria (monthly income ≤ S$1,800 per person). During Stage 2, families who narrowly missed the cut-off or experienced changes in their financial status may appeal and apply via online portals or Community Centres. Expect to receive vouchers within four to six weeks of application.
Enhanced Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) in 2025
The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) has been significantly boosted for work performed in 2025. Older workers aged 45–59 now qualify for a maximum of S$4,200 per year (up from S$3,600), while those 60 and above can receive up to S$4,900 annually. WIS payments are split 40% in cash and 60% into the CPF account credited monthly based on the previous month’s wages. This enhancement strengthens the financial buffer for older and lower-income citizens while preserving retirement savings.
What About Seniors? Silver Support Upped in 2025
In 2025, the Silver Support Scheme which aids lower-income seniors was enhanced. Singaporean residents aged 65+ living in 1-4 room HDB flats now receive quarterly payouts ranging from S$325 to S$1,080, depending on household income per person. Importantly, this support is assessed automatically no application needed and aims to reduce elderly poverty by topping up CPF contributions and subsidizing living expenses.
Could These Changes Make a Real Difference?
Together, these initiatives $90 transport vouchers, higher WIS payouts, and automated Silver Support form a multi-pronged strategy to address cost-of-living and retirement pressures. They target both active workers and elderly citizens, offering practical, ongoing relief. By combining direct cash support, CPF contributions, and commuter subsidies, the Government is promoting stability and resilience among lower-income groups.
How To Qualify and Get Involved
For PTVs, households must meet the monthly household income-per-person cap of S$1,800 and apply during Stage 2 via the official portal or Community Centres. Notification letters will be issued once eligibility is verified. Workfare recipients require no action, CPF contributions by employers automatically trigger eligibility and disbursement. Silver Support is similarly automatic for eligible seniors aged 65+ with qualifying income and housing cheques or PayNow credits will be dispatched quarterly.