Workfare supplements income and retirement savings of lower-wage workers, and encourages upskilling with training support.
Workfare is a key pillar of Singapore's social security landscape.
What it comprises
Workfare Income Supplement (WIS)
WIS was introduced in 2007 as a permanent feature of Singapore's social security system.
WIS supplements the incomes and CPF savings of lower-wage Singaporean workers and encourages them to work regularly. Older workers and all persons with disabilities will receive the highest payments.
Who is eligible
You may be eligible for WIS if you:
- Are a Singapore citizen
- Are at least 30 years old, or at least 13 years old for Persons with Disabilities
- Meet other eligibility criteria listed on CPFB's website
How it works
WIS is automatically paid out in cash and CPF every month to eligible employees and platform workers. Eligible self-employed persons are paid annually.
The WIS quantum varies depending on income and age.
Enhancements to WIS
The latest enhancements to WIS took effect from 1 January 2025.
For more information
Workfare Skills Support (WSS)
WSS encourages lower-wage workers to go for training to upgrade their skills, giving them the opportunity to earn more and find better jobs.
Who is eligible
You may be eligible for WSS if you:
- Are a Singapore citizen
- Are at least 30 years old, or at least 13 years old for Persons with Special Needs
- Earn a gross monthly income of not more than $3,000 for the past 12 months
- Meet other eligibility criteria listed on WSG's website
Training types covered
WSS (Basic) supports short training, such as:
WSS (Level-Up) supports long-form training, such as:
How it works
Eligible workers undertaking short training can receive WSS (Basic) support:
- Training allowance of $6 per hour up to 180 hours a year, for selected courses that workers had paid for themselves.
- Training commitment award of up to $1,000 per year, as a cash award for completing multiple courses.
- Employees can receive this support automatically via NRIC-linked PayNow accounts. Self-employed persons have to submit their claims online.
Employers sponsoring eligible employees for short training can receive WSS (Basic) support:
Eligible workers taking long-form training can receive WSS (Level-Up) support:
- For full-time trainees, training allowance of 50% of their average income over the latest available 12-month period, with a minimum minimum of $300 per month.
- For part-time trainees, training allowance of $300 per month.
- Trainees should apply for WSS (Level-Up) online. Applications open from 9 February 2026, for training done from 1 March 2026 onwards.
For more information
For more details on WSS, including eligibility criteria and training types covered:
- Visit the WSG website
- Call the WSG hotline: 1800 536 8333 (Monday to Friday, 8:30AM to 5:30PM)
Note that airtime charges apply for mobile calls to 1800 service lines.