KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Singapore seniors will receive the final Assurance Package Seniors’ Bonus payout in February 2026.
- Eligible seniors get S$200 to S$300 cash, plus a S$150 MediSave top-up for healthcare costs.
- No application needed — payouts are automatic and credited directly.
Imagine reaching retirement age but still worrying about grocery prices, electricity bills, or medical expenses. For many older Singaporeans, this isn’t a “what if” situation — it’s everyday reality, especially with GST hikes and cost of living increases over the past few years.
That’s why the Singapore Government is going ahead with the final phase of the Assurance Package (AP) Seniors’ Bonus in 2026. This last payout is meant to cushion the impact of higher GST, inflation, and daily expenses, while recognising the decades seniors spent working, paying taxes, and building Singapore’s economy.
What exactly is the Assurance Package Seniors’ Bonus?
The AP Seniors’ Bonus was first announced during Budget 2022 as part of a broader cost-of-living support plan. Its goal is straightforward: provide targeted cash assistance to older Singaporeans who are more sensitive to rising prices, especially retirees relying on CPF savings, CPF LIFE payouts, or family support.
Eligible seniors receive cash payouts spread across three years, with the final payout scheduled for February 2026. Over the full period, seniors will receive S$600 to S$900, depending on the Annual Value (AV) of the home they live in. For 2026 alone, about 850,000 seniors are expected to receive S$200 to S$300 in cash.
Seniors’ Bonus payout breakdown (2026)
| Property Annual Value (AV) | Cash Payout (Feb 2026) | Total Over 3 Years |
|---|---|---|
| Lower AV tiers (most HDB flats) | Up to S$300 | Up to S$900 |
| Higher eligible AV (up to S$31,000) | S$200 | S$600 |
For most HDB-dwelling seniors, this final payout is the largest single-year cash support under the Assurance Package.
Who qualifies for the 2026 payout?
The eligibility rules are designed to focus support on seniors who need it most, especially those with lower income and fewer assets. To qualify for the 2026 Seniors’ Bonus, seniors must meet all of the following conditions:
- Be a Singapore Citizen residing in Singapore
- Be 55 years old or above
- Have an assessable income of S$34,000 or below (based on the latest tax assessment)
- Own no more than one property
- Live in a home with an Annual Value of S$31,000 or below
There is no application required. Eligibility is automatically assessed using government records, similar to other schemes like GST Voucher payouts, Silver Support Scheme, and CPF-related benefits.
When and how will payments be made?
The cash payout starts from 5 February 2026. Seniors will receive their money through one of the following methods:
- PayNow (linked to NRIC)
- Direct bank credit
- GovCash (for seniors without bank accounts)
If PayNow-NRIC is already set up, that’s usually the fastest and most convenient option — no queues, no paperwork.
Extra support for healthcare: MediSave top-ups
Daily expenses are one thing, but healthcare costs often hit harder in later years. That’s why there’s additional support beyond cash payouts.
From February 2026, every Singaporean aged 55 and above, as well as those aged 20 and below, will receive a S$150 MediSave top-up. The amount will be credited directly into CPF MediSave accounts on 11 February 2026.
In total, around 2 million Singaporeans are expected to benefit. For seniors, this MediSave top-up can help cover outpatient visits, medications, chronic disease management, or future hospital bills — reducing reliance on cash savings.
Why this matters for everyday seniors
Honestly speaking, this isn’t about suddenly having extra luxury spending. But for many seniors, a few hundred dollars can make a real difference — groceries for the month, utility bills, or part of a medical expense.
With Singapore’s ageing population and rising living costs, schemes like the Assurance Package Seniors’ Bonus provide practical, targeted relief. For families supporting elderly parents, it also eases financial pressure and brings some peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do seniors need to apply for the 2026 Seniors’ Bonus?
No. There is no application required. Eligibility is automatically assessed, and payouts are credited directly to eligible seniors.
2. Will the Seniors’ Bonus affect other government payouts like CPF or GST Vouchers?
No. The Seniors’ Bonus is separate and does not reduce CPF LIFE payouts, GST Vouchers, Silver Support, or other government assistance schemes.
3. What if a senior has no bank account?
Seniors without bank accounts will receive their payout via GovCash, which can be collected at designated locations using NRIC verification.