Singapore households are set to receive a significant financial cushion in 2025 as the government expands its CDC Voucher Scheme and GST Voucher Scheme. These initiatives, introduced as part of Singapore’s wider Assurance Package, are designed to offset the impact of inflation and rising goods and services tax (GST), providing much-needed relief for both lower- and middle-income families.

For millions of Singaporeans, this is more than just a one-time benefit—it’s an ongoing strategy to ensure daily essentials like food, healthcare, utilities, and transport remain accessible despite escalating living costs.

Big CDC and GST Vouchers for 2025

The CDC Voucher Scheme continues to be a cornerstone of Singapore’s social support framework. In 2025, every Singaporean household will receive \$300 worth of CDC vouchers, issued in two phases. These vouchers can be used at participating hawker stalls, heartland shops, and supermarkets, directly benefiting small local businesses while easing the burden on households.

Alongside this, the GST Voucher Scheme provides targeted relief to lower- and middle-income Singaporeans. As GST remains at 8% in 2025, these vouchers help mitigate the added expenses caused by the consumption tax. Depending on income and property value, households can receive between \$450 and \$850 in cash, MediSave top-ups, and utility rebates.

Together, the two schemes reflect the government’s dual approach: support consumption at the community level while protecting household budgets from systemic inflationary pressures.

Eligibility Criteria for CDC Vouchers

Unlike many social assistance programs, the CDC Voucher Scheme is deliberately inclusive. To qualify, households must meet only two conditions:

• At least one household member must be a Singapore citizen.
• Claimants must have an active Singpass account to access vouchers digitally.

There are no restrictions related to household income, property ownership, or employment status. This ensures that a wide spectrum of Singaporeans—from elderly citizens living alone to young couples in new BTO flats—can benefit.

For those unable to claim online, physical vouchers can be obtained at Community Centres with assistance from staff. This makes the program accessible even for seniors who may not be comfortable with digital platforms.

Eligibility Criteria for GST Vouchers

The GST Voucher (GSTV), however, is more targeted. It is aimed at Singaporeans with lower assessable incomes and modest property holdings. To qualify in 2025:

• The claimant must be a Singaporean citizen, aged 21 or above.
• Annual assessable income for YA2023 must be below \$34,000.
• The annual value of the residence must not exceed \$25,000.
• The individual must not own more than one property.

These criteria are designed to direct relief to households most affected by inflation, ensuring that limited government resources reach those who need them most.

How to Claim the Vouchers

Claiming the vouchers is simple, but the process differs between schemes.

For CDC vouchers:

• Log in at the official CDC Vouchers portal with Singpass.
• After verification, a secure link is sent via SMS.
• This link can be shared with household members and used at participating outlets until 31 December 2025.
• Seniors without smartphones can claim printed vouchers at their nearest Community Centre.

For GST vouchers:

• If you’ve received them before, no application is needed—the process is automatic.
• New claimants, or those updating bank details, must submit changes through the GSTV e-services portal by 20 June 2025.

This digital-first approach ensures fast distribution, while maintaining in-person alternatives for citizens who need them.

Payment Dates and Amounts

The government has staggered distribution to prevent system overload and ensure smoother redemption.

CDC Voucher Payouts:

• First tranche of \$300 distributed in June 2024.
• Second tranche of \$500 to be distributed in September 2025.

GST Voucher Payouts:

• Annual cash and MediSave components: August 2025.
• U-Save rebates for utilities and S\&CC rebates for housing: quarterly (April, September, October 2025).

GST Voucher Breakdown by Property Value

• Households with annual property value ≤ \$21,000: up to \$850.
• Households with property value between \$21,001 and \$31,000: up to \$450.

Why the Vouchers Matter in 2025

The voucher programs come at a time when global economic conditions remain uncertain. Rising energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and GST adjustments all contribute to financial pressure for families.

For a single parent, the CDC vouchers could mean groceries for an entire month. For an elderly couple on fixed income, the GST rebates could offset rising utilities and healthcare costs. These vouchers are more than symbolic gestures—they represent direct, practical assistance.

Benefits Beyond Households

The impact of these schemes extends beyond individuals.

1. Support for local businesses: By spending CDC vouchers at heartland shops and hawkers, households inject money back into the local economy.
2. Encouragement of digital participation: Singpass usage and e-vouchers promote greater digital literacy.
3. Social stability: Financial relief helps reduce inequality, maintaining confidence in government policies during turbulent times.

Addressing Common Challenges

Despite widespread success, past rollouts highlighted challenges:

• Some seniors struggled with digital redemption.
• Delays occurred for households with outdated bank details.
• Misunderstandings arose over voucher expiry dates.

To address these, the government is increasing outreach through Community Development Councils (CDCs), offering helplines, and extending deadlines where necessary.

A Step Toward Financial Stability

The combined effect of CDC and GST vouchers underscores Singapore’s unique model of targeted but inclusive social support. By offering universal aid through CDC vouchers and focused help through GST vouchers, the government is balancing equity and efficiency.

Citizens are encouraged to:

• Check eligibility early.
• Claim vouchers promptly.
• Plan spending to maximize value before expiry.

As Singapore navigates inflationary challenges, these vouchers represent a commitment to resilience and shared prosperity.

5 FAQs

Q1: How much will households receive in CDC vouchers in 2025?
Every household will get \$300 in CDC vouchers, released in two phases during 2024 and 2025.

Q2: What are the eligibility criteria for GST vouchers?
You must be a Singapore citizen, aged 21+, with annual assessable income below \$34,000, property annual value below \$25,000, and not own more than one property.

Q3: How do I claim CDC vouchers if I don’t have Singpass?
You can visit your nearest Community Centre with your NRIC and request printed vouchers.

Q4: Will these vouchers expire?
Yes. CDC vouchers must be used by 31 December 2025, while GST vouchers follow standard payout timelines.

Q5: Can both CDC and GST vouchers be claimed together?
Yes. They are separate schemes and many households will benefit from both simultaneously.