KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Silver Support Scheme continues in 2026 with enhanced payouts following Budget changes.
- Eligible seniors can receive up to S$1,080 per quarter, with income threshold raised to S$2,300.
- No application required — CPF Board assesses eligibility automatically each year.
The Silver Support Scheme remains a core pillar of retirement support for lower-income seniors in Singapore. In 2026, enhanced payouts and wider eligibility aim to help seniors manage rising living costs with greater assurance.
Silver Support Scheme Dates and Payout Overview (2026)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Assessment | December 2025 |
| First Payout | March 2026 |
| Payout Frequency | Quarterly (Mar, Jun, Sep, Dec) |
| Income Threshold (PPHI) | ≤ S$2,300 |
| Maximum Quarterly Payout | S$1,080 |
What Is the Silver Support Scheme?
The Silver Support Scheme is a permanent Government programme that provides quarterly cash payouts to the bottom 20% of Singaporeans aged 65 and above. It supplements retirement income for seniors who had lower earnings during their working years.
Unlike ComCare, Silver Support is designed for long-term retirement support, not short-term assistance.
What Changed for 2026?
Several enhancements introduced earlier are fully in effect for 2026.
- 20% increase in quarterly payouts across all tiers
- Higher income ceiling raised from S$1,800 to S$2,300
- Automatic inclusion with no application required
These updates ensure the scheme keeps pace with inflation and wage growth.
Eligibility Criteria for Silver Support (2026)
Eligibility is assessed automatically by the CPF Board based on four factors.
1. Age Requirement
You must be a Singapore Citizen aged 65 or above.
2. CPF Contribution History
Total CPF contributions by age 55 must not exceed S$140,000.
For self-employed persons, assessed income is based on ages 45 to 54.
3. Housing Type
You must live in an HDB flat of 5 rooms or smaller.
Neither you nor your spouse can own private property or multiple properties.
4. Household Monthly Income Per Person (PPHI)
PPHI must not exceed S$2,300, allowing more seniors to qualify under the updated rules.
Silver Support Payout Amounts for 2026
| HDB Flat Type | PPHI ≤ S$1,150 | PPHI S$1,150–S$2,300 |
|---|---|---|
| 1- & 2-Room | S$1,080 | S$540 |
| 3-Room | S$865 | S$430 |
| 4-Room | S$650 | S$325 |
| 5-Room | S$430 | S$215 |
Note: Seniors in 5-room flats qualify only for the lowest tier.
Why This Matters
Seniors living in 1- and 2-room flats often have limited financial buffers. A quarterly payout of S$1,080 (about S$360 per month) provides essential support for daily expenses such as food, utilities, and transport.
When combined with GST Voucher – Cash and U-Save rebates, Silver Support helps reduce reliance on family members while preserving CPF LIFE payouts.
How and When Payouts Are Made
- Assessment: Conducted automatically every December
- Notification: Via SMS or letter
- Payment Method: PayNow-NRIC or registered bank account
- Payout Months: March, June, September, December
No action is required unless personal details need updating.
Silver Support and Other Senior Schemes
Majulah Package
Supports younger seniors before retirement by boosting CPF savings. Silver Support provides cash during retirement.
ComCare Long-Term Assistance
ComCare recipients receive a flat S$1,080 quarterly payout, regardless of flat type.
Pioneer and Merdeka Generation Benefits
Healthcare subsidies under PG and MG schemes can be received together with Silver Support.
Practical Tips for Seniors and Caregivers
- Keep NRIC address updated with ICA
- Register PayNow-NRIC for faster payments
- Monitor household income changes
- Check eligibility via CPF’s “View My Silver Support” portal
[Link to Official Source – Apply Here]
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to apply for Silver Support in 2026?
No. Eligibility is assessed automatically by CPF Board.
Can I receive Silver Support while still working?
Yes, if your PPHI remains within S$2,300 and other criteria are met.
Does Silver Support reduce CPF LIFE payouts?
No. It is a separate cash supplement.
Am I eligible if my spouse owns private property?
No. Property ownership by either spouse disqualifies eligibility.
Why does another senior receive more than me?
Payouts depend on flat type and household income level.
Is Silver Support the same as GST Voucher?
No. They are separate schemes, and many seniors receive both.
Sources:
- Ministry of Finance (MOF) – Singapore Budget
- Central Provident Fund (CPF) Board – Silver Support Scheme
