Every August, many Singaporeans look forward to a little financial relief from the Government. In 2025, the GST Voucher (GSTV) returns as part of the permanent scheme to help lower- and middle-income households cope with the rising cost of living. This year, eligible adults can receive up to S$850 in cash payouts, while seniors will get additional top-ups in their MediSave accounts.
The GST Voucher is more than just a “bonus.” It’s a targeted support measure designed to offset the impact of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for households that may feel the pinch the most. With prices of food, utilities, and daily essentials continuing to climb,
The payout offers meaningful relief, especially for families on tighter budgets. Let’s break down exactly who qualifies, how much you can expect, and when the money will reach your hands.
What is the GST Voucher Scheme?
The GST Voucher (GSTV) scheme was first introduced in 2012. Its goal is simple: to ensure the GST system remains fair by redistributing revenue back to Singaporeans who need more support.
The scheme has three main components:
- GSTV – Cash: Direct payouts to eligible adults.
- GSTV – MediSave: Top-ups to CPF MediSave accounts for seniors aged 65 and above.
- GSTV – U-Save: Utilities rebates for eligible HDB households.
For 2025, the headline figure is the S$850 cash payout, the highest amount under this scheme so far.
GST Voucher 2025 Cash Payout: Who Gets $850?
Eligibility is based on several factors age, income, property ownership, and the annual value of your home.
Key Eligibility Criteria for GSTV – Cash (2025)
- Must be a Singapore citizen residing in Singapore.
- Must be aged 21 and above in 2025.
- Annual Assessable Income (AI) for Year of Assessment 2024 must not exceed S$39,000.
- The Annual Value (AV) of your home as of 31 December 2024 must not exceed S$31,000.
- Must own no more than one property.
Payout Tiers (2025)
Here’s a quick snapshot of how much you can receive:
| Annual Value of Home (as of 31 Dec 2024) | Annual Assessable Income (YA2024) | Cash Payout in Aug 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Up to S$21,000 | ≤ S$39,000 | S$850 |
| Between S$21,001 – S$31,000 | ≤ S$39,000 | S$450 |
| Above S$31,000 | – | Not Eligible |
| Owns more than 1 property | – | Not Eligible |
This makes it immediately clear who qualifies for the S$850 payout and who will receive a smaller amount.
GST Voucher 2025 MediSave Top-Ups
For seniors aged 65 and above, the MediSave component provides additional healthcare security. The amount depends on both age and home value:
- 65–74 years old: S$150–S$250
- 75–84 years old: S$250–S$350
- 85 years and above: S$350–S$450
These top-ups are credited directly into CPF MediSave accounts, meaning they can be used for medical bills, insurance premiums, and other approved healthcare expenses.
When Will the 2025 GST Voucher Be Paid?
One of the most common questions is: When will the money come in? The Government has set clear timelines.
GSTV – Cash (August 2025)
- From 6 August 2025: For those with PayNow-NRIC linked accounts.
- From 15 August 2025: For those receiving via bank crediting.
- From 22 August 2025: For those opting for GovCash collection.
GSTV – MediSave (August 2025)
- From 11 August 2025: Automatically credited into MediSave accounts.
Important Sign-Up Dates
- If you’ve already signed up for past Government payouts, no action is required.
- If not, you must sign up by 13 July 2025 to receive your payout in August.
- Signing up later (between 14 July 2025 and 20 June 2026) means the payout will be credited within two months of your sign-up date.
Why the GST Voucher Matters in 2025
Singapore’s inflation has eased slightly compared to the peak years of 2022–2023, but the cost of essentials like food, transport, and utilities still weighs heavily on households. The Government estimates that over 1.5 million adult Singaporeans will benefit from the 2025 GSTV payouts.
For example:
- A single mother earning below the income cap and living in a 3-room HDB flat may receive S$850 in cash plus utilities rebates, which could offset several months of grocery and electricity bills.
- An elderly couple aged 70 and 75 living in a modest flat may receive S$850 cash each, plus MediSave top-ups worth S$250 and S$350 respectively.
These examples highlight how the scheme provides targeted relief rather than a blanket payout.
How Does This Compare to Previous Years?
In 2024, the maximum cash payout was also S$850, but fewer Singaporeans qualified at that tier because of higher property AV thresholds. The continued support in 2025 signals the Government’s recognition that cost-of-living pressures remain a concern.
Compared to broad-based vouchers like CDC Vouchers, the GST Voucher is narrower in scope but more significant in dollar value for eligible individuals.
Tips to Ensure You Get Paid Smoothly
- Link your NRIC to PayNow: Fastest way to receive the cash payout.
- Check your eligibility online: Use Singpass to log in to the GSTV e-services portal.
- Update bank details: Outdated accounts may delay your payout.
- Sign up early: Don’t miss the 13 July 2025 deadline.
(FAQ,s)
1. Do I need to apply every year for the GST Voucher?
Not necessarily. If you’ve already signed up for past Government payouts, you’re automatically considered. New sign-ups are only needed if you’ve never registered before.
2. Can permanent residents (PRs) receive the GST Voucher?
No, the GST Voucher is strictly for Singapore citizens.
3. What happens if I own two properties?
You will not be eligible, even if your income is below the cap. The scheme is designed to exclude higher-asset households.
4. How do I know if my home’s Annual Value is above S$21,000?
You can check the AV of your property by logging in to IRAS with your Singpass. AV is based on the estimated annual rental value of your property.
5. What if I miss the July 2025 sign-up deadline?
You can still sign up until 20 June 2026, but your payout will only be credited within two months of your registration, not in August.
Conclusion
The GST Voucher 2025 is a timely measure that puts real money back into the hands of Singaporeans who need it most. With up to S$850 in cash payouts, additional MediSave top-ups for seniors, and utility rebates, the scheme directly addresses cost-of-living challenges.
While the payout may not solve every financial concern, it can ease the burden of everyday expenses whether it’s paying the electricity bill, topping up groceries, or saving for medical needs. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria, make sure your details are updated and linked so the support reaches you without delay.
Nand Kishor is a content writer covering business, economy, and world affairs. With a background in journalism, he focuses on clear, ethical, and insightful reporting. Outside of work, he enjoys chess, cricket, and writing short stories.