The Singapore Government has confirmed that self-employed individuals who qualify for the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) will receive a special $2,800 bonus payout in August 2025. This measure is part of ongoing efforts to support lower-income workers and help them cope with rising living costs, while recognizing their contributions to the economy.
What Is the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)?
The Workfare Income Supplement is a long-standing scheme designed to:
- Provide extra income to lower-wage workers.
- Encourage continued work participation among older workers.
- Enhance retirement savings through CPF contributions.
For self-employed persons (SEPs), WIS is especially valuable as it supplements their often-variable income and ensures they can maintain both current expenses and future financial stability.
Details of the $2,800 August 2025 Bonus
The $2,800 bonus will be a one-time cash payout to qualifying self-employed individuals. It is in addition to the regular WIS amounts distributed quarterly.
Key Highlights:
- Payout Date: August 2025.
- Amount: $2,800 (cash).
- Recipients: Eligible self-employed persons under WIS criteria.
- Purpose: To help manage living expenses and provide financial relief amid higher inflation.
Eligibility Criteria for Self-Employed Individuals
To receive the $2,800 bonus, SEPs must:
- Be Singapore Citizens.
- Be aged 30 years and above (or above 13 for persons with disabilities).
- Have an annual net trade income not exceeding the WIS threshold.
- Make annual MediSave contributions in line with their income.
- Be actively working as a self-employed person during the qualifying period.
The Government will automatically assess eligibility based on income tax filings and CPF contribution records—no separate application is required.
How the Payment Will Be Made
- Direct Bank Transfer: The preferred method, ensuring faster payment.
- GovCash: Available for those without bank accounts.
- CPF Top-Ups: Regular WIS also boosts CPF savings, but this bonus will be entirely in cash to give immediate spending flexibility.
Why This Bonus Is Important in 2025
The cost of living in Singapore has been under pressure from global inflation, higher energy prices, and increased business costs. Self-employed individuals often face income uncertainty, making them more vulnerable to economic fluctuations.
This $2,800 bonus:
- Provides instant cash relief.
- Recognizes the essential contributions of freelancers, delivery riders, hawkers, and gig workers.
- Strengthens financial resilience for self-employed persons with lower incomes.
Comparison With Regular WIS Payouts
While regular WIS payouts for self-employed workers vary depending on age and income, the August 2025 bonus is significantly larger than any single regular quarterly payout. This makes it a substantial boost for eligible recipients.
Steps to Ensure You Get the Bonus
Self-employed individuals should:
- File income tax returns accurately and on time.
- Ensure MediSave contributions are fully paid up.
- Keep CPF and contact details updated to avoid payout delays.
Overview Table – $2,800 Workfare Bonus for SEPs in 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bonus Amount | $2,800 (one-time cash) |
| Payout Month | August 2025 |
| Eligible Group | Self-employed Singaporeans under WIS |
| Minimum Age | 30 years (13+ for PWDs) |
| Income Cap | Within WIS annual threshold |
| Payment Method | Bank transfer or GovCash |
Other Support for Lower-Income Workers in 2025
The $2,800 Workfare bonus is part of a broader support package that includes:
- Regular WIS payouts – Quarterly supplements to income and CPF savings.
- CDC Vouchers – Up to $800 for all households, with more for lower-income groups.
- U-Save Rebates – Offsetting utility bills for eligible HDB households.
- Public Transport Subsidies – Lower fares for concession cardholders.
These combined efforts create a more comprehensive safety net for vulnerable workers.
How This Supports the Economy
Beyond direct financial relief, the bonus also:
- Boosts domestic spending – More disposable income means more local consumption.
- Supports small businesses – Self-employed workers often spend in heartland shops.
- Encourages continued work participation – Incentivizing SEPs to remain active in the labor force.
FAQs
1. Do I need to apply for the bonus?
No. If you meet WIS criteria, the bonus will be credited automatically.
2. Will the bonus affect my regular WIS payouts?
No, it is a separate, additional payment.
3. Can foreigners or PRs receive the bonus?
No, it is only for Singapore Citizens.