The Singaporean government has introduced the Assurance Package (AP) to assist citizens in managing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) increase and rising living costs.
A key component of this initiative is the AP Cash Payout, providing financial relief to eligible Singaporeans over a five-year period from 2022 to 2026.
What is the Assurance Package (AP)?
Launched during Budget 2020, the Assurance Package aims to cushion the impact of the GST hike, ensuring that Singaporeans, especially those with lower and middle incomes, receive support through various benefits, including:
- AP Cash Payouts: Direct financial assistance to help with daily expenses.
- MediSave Top-Ups: Annual contributions to CPF MediSave accounts for healthcare expenses.
- U-Save Rebates: Quarterly utility bill rebates for eligible households.
- CDC Vouchers: Vouchers redeemable at participating heartland merchants and hawker centres.
AP Cash Payout Details
The AP Cash Payout is structured based on assessable income (AI) and property ownership, with payouts distributed annually from 2022 to 2026.
READ MORE: Singaporeans To Benefit From $700 Government Payout In April 2025
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the AP Cash Payout, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship and Residency: Must be a Singapore citizen residing in Singapore.
- Age: Must be aged 21 and above in the reference year.
- Assessable Income (AI): AI must be $100,000 or less.
- Property Ownership: Must own no more than one property.
Payout Breakdown
The total AP Cash Payout over five years varies depending on income and property ownership. The following table outlines the annual payouts:
| Income Tier | Annual AI | Property Ownership | Total Payout (2022–2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Income | ≤ $22,000 | Max 1 | $2,250 |
| Middle Income | $22,001–$34,000 | Max 1 | $1,750 |
| Upper-Middle Income | $34,001–$100,000 | Max 1 | $1,250 |
| Higher Income | $100,000 | 1 | Not eligible |
Payment Schedule
Payouts are disbursed annually in December. For example, the 2025 payout, based on 2023 AI, was credited in December 2024.
Payment Methods
Eligible individuals can receive their payouts through:
- PayNow-NRIC: Linking NRIC to PayNow ensures prompt payment.
- Bank Transfer: If bank details are registered, payments are credited directly.
- GovCash: For those without linked bank details, payments are available via GovCash.
Additional Benefits Under the Assurance Package
Beyond cash payouts, the Assurance Package includes:
- MediSave Top-Ups: Annual contributions to CPF MediSave accounts for eligible individuals.
- U-Save Rebates: Quarterly utility rebates for eligible HDB households.
- CDC Vouchers: Vouchers redeemable at participating merchants and hawker centres.
In conclusion, the $2,250 AP Cash Payout under Singapore’s Assurance Package offers vital financial relief to eligible citizens.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, payout methods, and additional benefits, Singaporeans can effectively access this support to alleviate rising living costs and enhance their financial well-being in 2025.
FAQs
How can I check my eligibility for the AP Cash Payout?
Log in to the SupportGoWhere portal using SingPass to verify eligibility.
When will I receive the AP Cash Payout?
Payments are disbursed annually in December, with the 2025 payout credited in December 2024.
Do I need to apply for the AP Cash Payout?
No application is necessary; eligible individuals are automatically notified.