Written Answer to PQ on Silver Support Scheme Total CPF contributions criterion

NOTICE PAPER NO. 242 OF 2025 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 5 NOVEMBER 2025

QUESTION NO. 600 FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

MP: Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim

To ask the Minister for Manpower whether the Ministry will consider greater flexibility in the criteria for the Silver Support Scheme, for seniors who exceeded the CPF savings threshold at age 55 but have since depleted much of their savings for housing and medical expenses, so that their current financial, health, or employability conditions at age 65 can be more accurately reflected in the assessment.

Answer:

1. The Silver Support Scheme is targeted at seniors who had lower incomes during their working years and now have little or no family support and resources in their retirement.

2. The total CPF contributions (TCC) criterion refers to the total sum in the Ordinary and Special Accounts at age 55, including amounts withdrawn for housing, education and investment, and is indicative of the incomes that seniors earned during their working years.

3. We periodically review the Silver Support Scheme. The TCC threshold was doubled from $70,000 to $140,000 in 2021. We also raised the qualifying monthly per capita household income threshold from $1,800 to $2,300 in 2025, enabling more seniors to qualify. At the same time, quarterly payments were raised by 20% to keep pace with inflation.

4. Seniors facing unique situations can write in to the CPF Board to review their eligibility for Silver Support. We will review their circumstances holistically on a case-by-case basis. Seniors in need can also consider seeking financial assistance from their nearest Social Service Office.