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Losing a job is never easy. Beyond the sudden loss of income, many people also struggle with uncertainty about the future. In Singapore, the government has recognised this challenge and introduced the Jobseeker Relief Scheme, officially known as the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support. Starting in April 2025, this programme aims to provide temporary financial help for citizens who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. With payouts of up to S$6,000, the scheme is designed to give jobseekers breathing space while they focus on finding meaningful employment or upgrading their skills.
This article explains how the scheme works, who qualifies, how much you can expect to receive, and what you need to do to continue receiving support.
What Is the Jobseeker Relief Scheme
The Jobseeker Relief Scheme is a targeted financial support plan for individuals who are involuntarily unemployed. Unlike traditional welfare schemes, it is not a long-term income replacement programme. Instead, it offers temporary payouts for up to six months, with the aim of cushioning the impact of job loss.
The programme is also linked to active job search efforts. Applicants are expected to demonstrate that they are actively looking for new opportunities or attending training to prepare for re-employment. In this way, the scheme balances short-term relief with long-term employability.
Who Is Eligible
Not everyone who is unemployed can apply for the scheme. The government has set out clear conditions to ensure the support reaches those most in need. To qualify, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a Singapore citizen aged 21 or above. Permanent Residents will be included from 2026.
- Have worked at least six months within the 12 months before applying.
- Have lost your job due to involuntary reasons such as retrenchment, business closure, or medical incapacity. Voluntary resignations are not covered.
- Have earned an average monthly income of S$5,000 or less in the past year, excluding employer CPF contributions.
- Live in a property with an annual value of S$31,000 or below.
- Not have received a Jobseeker Relief payout in the last three years.
These criteria ensure that support is given to lower- and middle-income workers who genuinely need help during periods of unemployment.
How Much Support Will You Receive
The maximum payout under the scheme is S$6,000, spread across six months. The amount is not fixed each month but decreases gradually. This tapering approach encourages individuals to secure employment as early as possible.
The monthly payout structure is as follows:
- First month: up to S$1,500
- Second month: up to S$1,250
- Third month: up to S$1,000
- Fourth month: up to S$750
- Fifth month: up to S$750
- Sixth month: up to S$750
There is also an income cap. You will not receive more than your previous average monthly wage. For example, if you previously earned S$1,200 per month, your payout in the first month will match that figure instead of the maximum S$1,500.
What You Need to Do Each Month
The scheme is designed to help active jobseekers, not passive recipients. To qualify for monthly payouts, you need to engage in approved activities and submit proof of participation. These activities can include:
- Applying for jobs through recognised portals
- Attending interviews or job fairs
- Participating in training courses or workshops
- Meeting career coaches for guidance
- Updating resumes and professional profiles
The requirement ensures that beneficiaries remain engaged in meaningful job search activities. If you fail to meet these conditions for a particular month, your payout for that month may be withheld.
How to Apply
Applications will be processed through the official Workforce Singapore platform. The steps usually involve:
- Logging into the Jobseeker Support portal using your Singpass.
- Filling in personal details, employment history, and reason for unemployment.
- Submitting supporting documents such as retrenchment letters or medical records.
- Providing information about your property and income levels for eligibility checks.
Once approved, you will begin receiving monthly payouts directly into your bank account, subject to completing the required job search activities.
When the Payouts Stop
Payouts continue only as long as you remain unemployed. The moment you secure a new job, your relief will stop at the end of that month. This ensures that support is channelled to those who truly need it at any given time.
Additionally, the scheme is not designed for repeat use. Once you receive support, you cannot reapply until three years have passed.
Why This Scheme Matters
The Jobseeker Relief Scheme reflects Singapore’s commitment to a fair and supportive labour system. By offering temporary assistance, the government helps ease the immediate financial burden of unemployment. At the same time, by linking payouts to job search activities, it promotes accountability and responsibility among jobseekers.
The tapering payout structure is also significant. It provides more support in the early months, when financial stress is highest, and gradually reduces the amount to encourage quicker re-entry into the workforce.
Things to Keep in Mind
While the scheme is generous, it is not a replacement for financial planning. Individuals are encouraged to maintain personal savings and explore other training subsidies, such as SkillsFuture credits, which can improve employability in the long run.
It is also important to remember that this scheme complements other forms of assistance like ComCare, not replaces them. Families in need may still access broader social support if their circumstances require it.
Conclusion
The Singapore Jobseeker Relief Scheme 2025 is more than just a financial payout. It is a well-thought-out programme that balances compassion with practicality. By offering up to S$6,000 over six months, it gives jobseekers the time and space to focus on finding the right opportunity.
Eligibility requirements ensure that the scheme is targeted at citizens who need it most, while the requirement to stay active in job search activities ensures accountability. For anyone facing involuntary unemployment, this relief can provide crucial support while paving the way for a smoother transition back into the workforce.