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Singapore has rolled out the new SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) Scheme, a financial assistance programme designed to help citizens and, later, permanent residents who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Administered by Workforce Singapore (WSG), the scheme offers up to S$6,000 over six months, providing both short-term relief and incentives for active job search efforts.
Who Can Apply
The JS Scheme is open to Singapore Citizens from April 2025, with Permanent Residents becoming eligible in early 2026. Applicants must be 21 years and above, with at least six months of local work experience within the past year before becoming unemployed.
To qualify, the applicant’s average monthly income over the last 12 months must not exceed S$5,000 before CPF deductions. In addition, the Annual Value (AV) of their residence should be S$31,000 or lower, which typically covers most HDB flats and lower-valued private homes.
The scheme specifically supports those facing involuntary unemployment, such as retrenchment, company closure, medical incapacity, or dismissal unrelated to misconduct.
How the Support Works
Unlike a one-time payout, the scheme provides monthly disbursements linked to active job-seeking efforts. The maximum payout is capped at the applicant’s previous income, with the overall ceiling set at S$6,000 over six months.
Monthly payout breakdown:
- Month 1: Up to S$1,500
- Month 2: Up to S$1,250
- Month 3: Up to S$1,000
- Month 4: Up to S$750
- Month 5: Up to S$750
- Month 6: Up to S$750
Payments stop once the applicant finds employment.
Points-Based Requirement
To qualify for each monthly payout, applicants must meet a points target by completing approved job search or training activities.
Examples include:
- Submitting job applications (1 point per application, up to 5 per month)
- Attending a job interview (4 points, no limit)
- Joining a career advisory session (3 points, once per month)
- Enrolling in a SkillsFuture-approved training course (2 points, once per month)
- Networking with industry professionals (2 points per engagement, no cap)
This system ensures recipients remain active in seeking re-employment and upgrading their skills.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through the official portal at go.gov.sg/jsscheme-eligibility using Singpass. Supporting documents include:
- A termination or dismissal letter from the last employer
- CPF contribution history for the past 15 months
- For health-related cases, a medical certificate from a recognised institution
WSG will verify the information with the applicant’s former employer. Processing typically takes 10 working days, with results notified by email.
More Than Just Financial Aid
Beyond monetary support, the JS Scheme integrates with broader programmes such as Career Conversion Programmes, Mid-Career Pathways, and SkillsFuture training. Applicants also gain access to resources like resume workshops and interview preparation guides, ensuring they are better positioned to re-enter the workforce.
Strengthening Workforce Resilience
By tying payouts to active job-seeking and learning, the government aims to strike a balance between short-term financial relief and long-term employability. The JS Scheme reflects Singapore’s commitment to helping its workforce navigate career disruptions while staying competitive in a rapidly evolving economy.