Picture yourself at retirement age. Instead of enjoying slower mornings and time with loved ones, you find yourself worrying about whether your savings can keep up with rising prices. This is a real concern for many older Singaporeans.
Recognising these pressures, the Singapore Government will roll out the final phase of the Assurance Package (AP) Seniors’ Bonus in 2026. This last payout reflects a continued commitment to support seniors through the GST increase and higher living costs, while also acknowledging their lifelong contributions to building the nation.
What Is the Seniors’ Bonus?
The AP Seniors’ Bonus is a key component of the Assurance Package first announced during Budget 2022. Its purpose is to cushion the impact of the GST hike and rising daily expenses, particularly for older Singaporeans with lower incomes.
Under this scheme, eligible seniors receive cash payouts over three years (2023–2025), with the final payout taking place in February 2026. Over the full period, seniors receive between $600 and $900, depending on their residential property’s annual value.
In 2026 alone, around 850,000 seniors are expected to receive $200 to $300 in cash.
Who Qualifies for the 2026 Seniors’ Bonus?
Eligibility criteria are designed to ensure that support goes to seniors who need it most. To qualify for the 2026 payout, seniors must:
- Be Singapore citizens residing in Singapore
- Be 55 years old or above
- Have an assessable income of $34,000 or less (based on the latest tax assessment)
- Own no more than one property
- Live in a home with an Annual Value (AV) of $31,000 or below
There is no application required. Eligibility is automatically assessed by the government, and payments are made directly.
Payout Amounts and Schedule for 2026
Below is a clear breakdown of the final Seniors’ Bonus payout:
| Property Annual Value (AV) | Cash Payout in Feb 2026 | Total Over 3 Years (2023–2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Lower AV tiers (e.g. most HDB flats) | Up to $300 | Up to $900 |
| Higher eligible AV (up to $31,000) | $200 | $600 |
Payment date:
- From 5 February 2026
Payment modes:
- PayNow (linked to NRIC)
- Bank credit
- GovCash (for those without bank accounts)
Additional Support: MediSave Top-Ups
Beyond cash support, healthcare affordability remains a priority.
From February 2026, every Singaporean aged 55 and above, as well as those aged 20 and below, will receive a $150 MediSave top-up.
- The top-up will be credited directly into CPF MediSave accounts on 11 February 2026.
- Approximately 2 million Singaporeans are expected to benefit.
This helps seniors better manage medical expenses and long-term healthcare needs.
Why the Seniors’ Bonus Matters
The AP Seniors’ Bonus is not just about extra cash. It is about peace of mind during uncertain economic times. For many seniors, even a few hundred dollars can make a meaningful difference—helping with groceries, utilities, medical bills, or simply easing day-to-day worries.
As Singapore’s population ages, targeted schemes like this ensure that seniors are not left behind. They reflect a broader social commitment: that those who contributed to the nation throughout their working lives continue to receive care, dignity, and support in their later years.
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