KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- CareShield Life 2026 provides lifelong monthly payouts for Singaporeans with severe disability, with higher payouts locked in at claim.
- Monthly payouts exceed S$689 in 2026 and rise yearly; premiums are payable until age 67 and can be covered using CPF MediSave.
- Coverage is mandatory for those born in 1980 or later, while others may opt in using Singpass with a 60-day free-look period.
Healthcare and long-term care costs in Singapore continue to rise as the population ages. CareShield Life 2026 remains a core protection scheme, offering lifelong income support if severe disability occurs at any stage of life.
CareShield Life Overview(2026)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly payout (from 2026 claim) | From S$689, increases yearly |
| Payout duration | Lifetime |
| Premium payment age | Up to 67 |
| Payment mode | CPF MediSave or cash |
| Eligibility | SCs & PRs (born 1980 onwards or opted in) |
What Is CareShield Life?
CareShield Life is Singapore’s national long-term care insurance scheme administered by the CPF Board and overseen by the Ministry of Health.
It provides monthly cash payouts for life when a person is assessed to be severely disabled — defined as being unable to perform at least 3 out of 6 Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):
- Washing
- Dressing
- Feeding
- Toileting
- Transferring
- Mobility
The payouts are flexible and can be used for home care, caregivers, nursing homes, or daily living needs.
Key Features of CareShield Life in 2026
Lifetime payouts
Once approved, payouts continue for life with no cap on duration.
Built-in inflation protection
Monthly payouts increase annually until age 67 or until a claim is made.
Mandatory national coverage
Applies to Singapore Citizens and PRs born in 1980 or later, or those who opted in.
MediSave integration
Most members can pay premiums fully using CPF MediSave, limiting cash outlay.
CareShield Life Payout Amounts (2026–2030)
Once a claim is approved, the payout level is locked in for life.
| Year of Successful Claim | Monthly Payout |
|---|---|
| 2026 | S$689 |
| 2027 | S$717 |
| 2028 | S$745 |
| 2029 | S$775 |
| 2030 | S$806 |
Payouts are not means-tested. Income, savings, or family support do not affect eligibility.
CareShield Life Premiums in 2026
Premiums depend on age, gender, and entry age, and are payable only until 67.
They increase gradually with age but are designed to remain affordable.
Government Support Measures
- Premium subsidies for lower- and middle-income households
- Additional assistance for those who still face difficulty paying
- MediSave usage to minimise cash payments
No one loses coverage due to inability to pay.
Who Is Covered?
You are covered if you:
- Are a Singapore Citizen or PR
- Were born in 1980 or later, or opted in earlier
- Develop severe disability at any age
Coverage applies regardless of employment status — employees, freelancers, self-employed persons, and homemakers are all included.
How to Claim CareShield Life
Step 1: Medical assessment
An MOH-accredited healthcare professional assesses disability status.
Step 2: Submission to CPF Board
Results are submitted on your behalf.
Step 3: Approval and payout
Monthly payouts begin and continue for life once approved.
Claims can be initiated by the individual, family members, or legal caregivers.
CareShield Life vs ElderShield
| Feature | ElderShield | CareShield Life |
|---|---|---|
| Payout duration | Limited | Lifetime |
| Monthly payout | Lower | Higher & increasing |
| Coverage | Optional | Mandatory |
| Inflation protection | No | Yes |
CareShield Life addresses longevity risk more effectively as life expectancy rises.
Should You Consider a CareShield Life Supplement?
CareShield Life provides baseline protection, but actual long-term care costs in Singapore can exceed S$2,000–4,000 per month, especially for full-time care or nursing homes.
Private supplements can:
- Increase monthly payouts
- Provide higher total coverage
- Enhance long-term affordability
Supplements are optional and depend on personal financial capacity.
Why This Matters
One in two Singaporeans is expected to experience severe disability in their lifetime. With rising care costs and smaller household sizes, relying solely on family support is increasingly risky. CareShield Life ensures a minimum lifelong income stream, reducing financial strain on loved ones and supporting independence.
How to Join CareShield Life
Since 2020, about 1.9 million policyholders have joined, including those who upgraded from ElderShield.
If you were not auto-enrolled:
- Apply using Singpass
- Enjoy a 60-day free-look period
- Coverage starts once accepted
[Link to Official Source – Apply Here]
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CareShield Life compulsory in 2026?
Yes, for eligible Singaporeans and PRs unless medically exempted.
Can I opt out?
No. Once enrolled, you cannot opt out, but supplements are optional.
Can premiums be paid in cash?
Yes, though CPF MediSave is recommended.
Does it cover mental illness?
Coverage depends on functional disability, not diagnosis.
Is CareShield Life enough on its own?
It provides basic support. Many combine it with supplements or savings.
Conclusion
CareShield Life 2026 is a cornerstone of Singapore’s long-term care framework. While it may not cover all expenses, it guarantees lifelong income support against severe disability — a risk that increases with age and medical progress. Understanding the scheme early helps Singaporeans plan responsibly and avoid last-minute financial pressure.
