Singapore continues to roll out the Assurance Package (AP) Cash Payments to help citizens manage the rising cost of living. This long-term support program delivers cash directly into the hands of eligible adults, giving every Singaporean citizen aged 21 and above between $700 and $2,250 over five years.
The AP Cash payouts are carefully structured to ensure fairness. The total amount an individual receives depends mainly on their assessable income and property ownership, ensuring greater assistance to those with lower income and fewer assets.
The program, which began in 2022, will continue until 2026, with yearly payments credited each December. By the end of the scheme, millions of Singaporeans will have benefited from the initiative designed to cushion inflationary pressures.
Purpose of the AP Cash Payment
The Assurance Package (AP) was introduced by the Singapore Government as part of a broader plan to help citizens cope with the Goods and Services Tax (GST) increase and overall cost-of-living challenges. The cash component is one of the most direct forms of relief, ensuring that those with lower incomes or limited property ownership receive proportionately higher payouts.
The package reflects the Government’s commitment to maintaining social balance while ensuring that all Singaporeans continue to benefit from economic growth without excessive financial strain.
Payment Range and Distribution Period
Under the AP Cash scheme, Singaporeans will receive total payouts between $700 and $2,250, disbursed over five years (2022–2026). The payout amount depends on two main factors:
- Assessable Income (AI)
- Number of Properties Owned
AP Cash Distribution Table (2022–2026)
| Reference Year | Disbursement Period | Assessable Income (AI) up to $34,000 (Owns ≤1 property) | AI $34,001–$100,000 (Owns ≤1 property) | AI >$100,000 or Owns >1 property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Dec 2022 | $200 | $150 | $100 |
| 2024 | Dec 2023 | $600 | $350 | $200 |
| 2025 | Dec 2024 | $600 | $350 | $200 |
| 2026 | Dec 2025 | $600 | $350 | $100 |
| 2027 | Dec 2026 | $250 | $150 | $100 |
| Total | $2,250 | $1,350 | $700 |
The amounts above represent cumulative support, ensuring continued financial stability for citizens through different economic conditions.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the AP Cash payment, individuals must meet specific eligibility conditions based on citizenship, residence, and age. These ensure that support is targeted only at local citizens who contribute to and reside in Singapore.
Eligibility Requirements
- Singapore Citizenship: The applicant must be a Singapore citizen. Individuals holding dual or foreign citizenship are not eligible.
- Residency: Must be residing in Singapore at the time of payment.
- Age Requirement: Must be 21 years and above in the reference year of disbursement.
- Income Basis: Payments for each year are calculated based on the Assessable Income (AI) declared for the preceding assessment year.
For instance, the December 2024 payout will be based on the Year of Assessment 2023, which covers income earned in 2022.
Understanding Assessable Income (AI)
Assessable Income (AI) is the total amount of income subject to tax after deducting allowable expenses and approved donations. It includes various income sources such as employment wages, business income, and rental earnings.
For example:
If an individual’s income is $35,000, and they made $5,000 in donations, the AI will be $30,000 ($35,000 – $5,000).
This AI figure directly determines the payout tier under the AP Cash scheme.
Singaporeans can check their AI via the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) website by logging into myTax Portal using their Singpass, then navigating to “Notices/Letters > Individual > Year of Assessment.”
Payout Method and Timeline
The Assurance Package Cash payouts are automatically credited each December; no application is required. Eligible Singaporeans will receive the amount directly into their PayNow NRIC-linked bank account or via GovCash, depending on their registered payment method.
The next payout will be made in December 2024, marking the fourth installment of the five-year scheme. The final payment is scheduled for December 2026.
How to Check Eligibility and Payment Details
Singaporeans can log in to AP Cash e-Services using their Singpass to check their eligibility, payment history, and upcoming payout details. This portal also allows users to update banking details or verify PayNow linkage to ensure timely disbursement.
For those not enrolled in PayNow (NRIC), payments may be issued through GovCash, which can be collected at OCBC ATMs or assisted service kiosks across Singapore.
Main Points
The Assurance Package Cash is a significant component of Singapore’s effort to ease the burden of inflation and maintain financial stability among residents. Over five years, this scheme ensures continued support to more than 2.9 million adult Singaporeans, particularly those from middle- and lower-income groups.
By the end of 2026, the program will have delivered up to $2,250 in total payouts per eligible individual, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and shared progress.
