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Rising transport fares are a concern for many households, especially those who rely heavily on buses and trains for daily commuting. To help cushion the impact, the Singapore Government has rolled out the $60 Public Transport Voucher (PTV) scheme for 2025, providing much-needed relief to lower-income families.
This programme is part of the country’s ongoing efforts to ensure that public transport remains affordable and accessible, even as operational costs rise.
Why the Voucher Matters
The PTV scheme is more than just a subsidy it represents the government’s commitment to keeping mobility equitable for all Singaporeans. Public transport plays a vital role in connecting people to jobs, schools, healthcare, and essential services. For families living on tighter budgets, a $60 voucher can significantly reduce financial pressure, freeing up funds for other necessities.
In 2024, close to 270,000 households benefited from the programme. Many of these families depended almost entirely on buses and MRT services, and the voucher helped to ease their transport expenses without cutting into other household needs.
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 PTV?
To qualify, households must meet specific income and residency requirements.
- Monthly household income per person: Must not exceed $1,800
- Residency requirement: At least one family member must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Income sources considered: Wages, self-employment income, allowances, overtime pay, bonuses, and commissions
For households whose income slightly exceeds the cap but who face special circumstances such as medical expenses or sudden job loss, an appeal can be filed through local Citizens’ Consultative Committees (CCCs).
Two-Stage Distribution of the Voucher
The distribution of vouchers in 2025 has been structured into two phases:
- Stage 1 (December 2024):
About 270,000 households that previously received the voucher in 2023, and who remained eligible, automatically received their vouchers. No re-application was required. - Stage 2 (14 January – 31 October 2025):
Households who did not benefit in Stage 1 but meet the eligibility criteria can apply either online at go.gov.sg/ptv or in person at Community Centres/Clubs (CCs). This phase also accepts appeals for additional support. Beneficiaries of ComCare Short-to-Medium-Term Assistance or Long-Term Assistance as of 31 March 2025 will automatically receive additional vouchers by the end of July 2025.
Redemption and Usage Rules
Each eligible household receives one $60 voucher, which can be split into $10 portions and credited to one or more public transport cards.
- Redeemable for both MRT and bus services
- Usable by all household members
- Flexibility through smaller denominations allows families to manage expenses more effectively
Redemptions can be made at TransitLink Ticket Offices, Top-Up Kiosks, or Assisted Service Kiosks.
What If You Missed Stage 1?
Households that were eligible but did not automatically receive a voucher in Stage 1 may have faced issues such as outdated address records or updated income information. These families can:
- Update their personal details at the nearest Community Centre
- Apply during Stage 2 or submit an appeal
- Provide supporting documents such as proof of income changes or medical bills
Successful applicants will be notified within four to six weeks of applying.
Final Thoughts
The Public Transport Voucher 2025 is not just about offsetting fare hikes it is about making sure that all Singaporeans, regardless of financial background, can continue to access affordable and reliable public transport. By combining automatic eligibility, flexible redemption, and an appeals process for exceptional cases, the scheme strikes a balance between efficiency and compassion.
For households managing tight budgets, this support goes a long way in ensuring daily travel remains accessible, connecting them to work, school, and essential services without added financial strain.