MOM tackles Parliamentary query on enhancements on Singapore’s Silver Support Scheme

The ministry said the scheme is reviewed periodically, taking into account considerations such as inflation, while ensuring the scheme remains fiscally sustainable. 

Starting January 2025, the Silver Support Scheme in Singapore will provide higher financial assistance to lower income seniors, with an increased qualifying per capital household income threshold and a 20% increase in quarterly payouts. 

Responding to a Parliamentary query on the economic indicators guiding decisions behind the timing and extent on any adjustments made, as well as whether a systematic review process will be implemented to keep the threshold aligned with the cost of living, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said the scheme is reviewed periodically taking into account certain considerations. 

In particular, this targets support for seniors in Singapore who need it most, considering factors such as inflation while ensuring the scheme remains fiscally sustainable.  

To recap, effective January 2025, the following adjustments have taken effect: 

1) Higher income threshold 

• The per capita household income threshold for eligibility has been raised from $1,800 to $2,300.  

2) Increased payouts  

• Quarterly payments under the scheme will see a 20% increase.  

The total CPF contribution threshold, which reflects the income seniors earned during their working years, is periodically reviewed. Notably, it was doubled in the last review in 2021, from eligibility and ensuring the scheme’s sustainability. 

“The Government has rolled out additional measures to support all Singaporeans with cost-of-living pressures,” MOM added.  

These include enhancements to the Assurance Package, which now exceeds S$10bn. Key measures include the Budget 2024 Cost-of-Living Special Payment disbursed in September 2024, CDC Vouchers provided to offset daily expenses, and additional U-Save and S&CC rebates to assist households with general household expenses. Seniors requiring further assistance can also tap on ComCare support. 

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