KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Working Singaporeans aged 51+ can receive up to S$1,000 yearly in CPF top-ups.
- No application needed — eligibility is checked automatically.
- Bonus paid in March 2025 and March 2026 based on work done.
The Majulah Earn & Save Bonus (ESB) is real money going straight into your CPF — every year — just for staying employed.
For many Singaporeans, this is the most valuable part of the Majulah Package. Quietly powerful, but often misunderstood.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Singapore citizens aged 51 and above |
| Bonus amount | S$400 – S$1,000 per year |
| Paid as | CPF top-up (not cash) |
| Where it goes | CPF SA (51–54) or CPF RA (55+) |
| Interest earned | Minimum 4% per year |
| Payout timing | March 2025 and March 2026 |
What Exactly Is the Earn & Save Bonus?
The ESB is an annual CPF top-up given to lower- and middle-income older workers.
No cash.
No spending temptation.
The money goes straight into your CPF Special Account (SA) or Retirement Account (RA), where it compounds quietly.
Honestly speaking, this is the kind of support that actually helps retirement — not kopi money.
Who Can Get It? (2025 & 2026 Criteria)
You must meet all four conditions below.
1. Age
Born on 31 December 1973 or earlier
(That means 51 years old and above in 2024)
2. Employment Status
You must be working:
- Employee, or
- Self-employed (freelancer, hawker, private-hire driver, etc.)
3. Income Range
Your average monthly income must be between:
S$500 and S$6,000
Anything outside this range — no ESB.
4. Property Conditions
- Living in a property with Annual Value ≤ S$25,000
- Own only one property
All HDB flats qualify. Some lower-value private homes also qualify.
How Much Will You Receive?
Your income decides the bonus amount.
| Average Monthly Income | Annual ESB |
|---|---|
| S$500 – S$2,500 | S$1,000 |
| Above S$2,500 – S$3,500 | S$700 |
| Above S$3,500 – S$6,000 | S$400 |
Lower income, higher support.
Simple and fair.
If you earn below S$500, you usually won’t qualify. The scheme is meant to reward active work.
Special Notes for Self-Employed Singaporeans
Yes, freelancers and gig workers are included.
But there are two must-do steps:
- Declare your Net Trade Income (NTI) to IRAS or CPF Board
- Pay required MediSave contributions for that work year
Miss either one, and the bonus won’t come.
When Will the Money Be Paid?
This is not instant. It’s yearly.
- Work done in 2024 → Paid in March 2025
- Work done in 2025 → Paid in March 2026
Where it goes:
- Age 55+ → CPF Retirement Account (RA)
- Age 51–54 → CPF Special Account (SA)
Why this matters:
These accounts earn at least 4% interest, guaranteed.
Why the Earn & Save Bonus Is a Big Deal
This isn’t flashy. But it’s powerful.
1. Compounding Does the Heavy Lifting
A S$1,000 top-up every year, earning 4%, adds up to much more over time.
You don’t feel it today — but future you will.
2. Part-Time Work Becomes Worth It
For seniors easing into semi-retirement, earning just S$500–S$1,000 a month can still bring in a S$1,000 CPF boost.
Check your eligibility status today on the govbenefits.gov.sg portal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to apply for the Earn & Save Bonus?
No need. Eligibility is assessed automatically using CPF and tax records. If you qualify, you’ll be notified via SMS or LifeSG.
Can I withdraw the bonus as cash?
No. The bonus stays in CPF and contributes to your future CPF LIFE monthly payouts from age 65.
What if I stop working halfway through the year?
It’s based on average monthly income for the year. If your total income divided by 12 stays within S$500–S$6,000, you’re still eligible.
A Practical Tip for 2026
If your income is close to S$6,000, watch your bonuses and overtime carefully.
Cross the ceiling, and you lose the S$400.
On the flip side, if you’re just under S$500, a small increase in hours could make a big difference. No need to overthink — the maths is very clear.
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