Singapore has launched a new citizens unemployment benefits scheme, for the first time, which provides direct financial support to involuntarily unemployed citizens. As of April 15, Singaporeans can apply for temporary financial support under the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme. The scheme offers up to $6,000 over six months to lower and middle-income Singaporeans aged 21 and above, who have lost their jobs due to retrenchment, business closure, or medical reasons. Although, eligible citizens will need to complete job search-related activities to qualify for these payouts. Here’s what we know about the new unemployment benefits in Singapore:
Do you qualify for unemployment benefits?
Applicants must have earned an average monthly income of $5,000 or less in the previous year. Plus, they must have worked at least six months in the past 12 months, and reside in a property with an annual value of $31,000 or less. Currently, this unemployment benefit scheme is for Singaporeans while Permanent Residents will become eligible in the first quarter of 2026.
This financial aid payout is designed to provide immediate relief while encouraging active job search. Eligible citizens must participate in the 13 job search activities to earn points which include going for interviews, career coaching, enrolling in training programmes, registering with an employment agency, and networking with industry professionals, to name a few.
Eligible recipients receive $1,500 in the first month, $1,250 in the second month, $1,000 in the third, and $750 for each of the remaining three months. This totals to a maximum of $6,000 if they remain unemployed throughout the period. However, the monthly payout cannot exceed the individual’s former average monthly income.
Moreover, participants must remain unemployment for at least one month before the first payment and engaging in job searching activities to receive their payout.
How to apply
Applicants must submit proof of involuntary unemployment, such as a retrenchment letter or medical certificate, to qualify for these unemployment benefits in Singapore. Plus, they must document their job search activities through an online portal. Workforce Singapore (WSG) will process applications with payouts typically starting within weeks of approval. Apply here.
Interestingly, the Singapore government has allocated $200 million a year for this scheme. Additionally, it is set to support about 60,000 people each year which is more than 60% of those currently involuntarily unemployed.
Overall, the unemployment benefit scheme is a temporary measure to help jobseekers while they search for new employment. Meanwhile, it aims to prevent long-term dependency and foster resilience by incorporating the requirements of job search activities. More to follow on the Singapore citizens unemployment benefits.
SEE MORE: Eligible Singapore Households Can Claim Up To $400 In Climate Vouchers
SEE MORE: Singapore Government Payouts 2025 Guide