Cash given to 2.4 million citizens to help

Singapore – The world’s second richest country is giving cash payments to more than 2.4 million adult citizens to help them cope with the rising cost of living.

Eligible Singaporeans will receive between $400 and $600 Singapore dollars (about US$312 to US$468). The payments will start on September 9, 2026.

Who can get the payment?

To receive the money, a person must be:

· A Singapore citizen

· Living in Singapore

· At least 21 years old in 2026

· Earning no more than S$100,000 in the 2025 assessment year

· Owning no more than one property

How much will people get?

The amount depends on the person’s income and the value of their home.

· People with lower incomes (up to S$22,000) and homes with a lower annual value (up to S$15,000) will receive the full S$600.

· People with higher incomes (up to S$100,000) and homes with a higher annual value (above S$31,000) will receive S$400.

No application needed

Citizens do not need to apply for the payment. The government will send the money automatically.

Those who have linked their bank details to the national digital identity system (PayNow) will receive the payment earlier. Others will get it through bank transfer by September 17 or through cash vouchers by September 24.

Why is the government giving this money?

The payment was first announced as part of Singapore’s 2026 national budget. The government added more money in April to help households and businesses deal with price increases linked to the Middle East conflict.

“It is to help Singapore citizens with their living expenses, with more support for the lower-income,” the Ministry of Finance said.

The government has set aside nearly S$1 billion for this support package.