The Singapore government has taken an important step to support its elderly citizens. From June 2025, senior citizens will receive a monthly pension of S$1250 under the CPF LIFE scheme. This move helps retired citizens live with peace and dignity, without money worries.
This plan gives lifelong monthly income, helping elderly people stay independent during their retirement years.
What is CPF LIFE Scheme?
CPF LIFE stands for Central Provident Fund Lifelong Income for the Elderly. It is a plan that gives money every month to senior citizens for as long as they live.
The goal is to make sure older people do not need to depend on others for daily needs or medical bills.
There are two CPF LIFE plan types:
- Standard Plan – You get a fixed monthly amount.
- Escalating Plan – The amount increases by about 2% every year to match rising costs.
When Does the Pension Start?
You can begin receiving the pension from age 65. However, you can choose to delay it until age 70.
If you wait till 70, the monthly payout increases by around 7%.
This allows people to decide what works best for them.
Who Can Get S$1250 Monthly Pension?
To receive the full S$1250 pension, you need to meet some rules:
- You must be 65 years old or more.
- You must have a working CPF retirement account.
- You should have more than S$60,000 in that account.
- You must be a citizen or permanent resident of Singapore.
If you don’t have S$60,000 in your account, there is another option called the RSS.
What is the Retirement Sum Scheme (RSS)?
The RSS is for people who cannot join CPF LIFE because their balance is below S$60,000.
It still gives a monthly pension, but only for around 20 years or until the account runs out of funds.
Though it’s not lifelong, RSS is helpful for people with low savings during retirement.
How to Apply for CPF LIFE or RSS?
Applying is easy and online. You will need a Singpass account to use the official portal.
Here are the steps:
- Check your age and CPF balance.
- Log in to the Singpass portal.
- Go to the “Start My Payout” section.
- Choose CPF LIFE or RSS.
- Enter your bank details to receive the money.
This online method makes the process smooth for senior citizens and their families.
When Will the Payments Start?
The first S$1250 payment under CPF LIFE will begin in June 2025.
The CPF Board will inform eligible people and help them activate their payments on time.
Why This Scheme Matters
Today, the cost of living and healthcare is going up. Older people often struggle with daily expenses.
With CPF LIFE, they will receive fixed monthly income. This gives them confidence and financial freedom.
The plan also shows that the government respects and values its elderly citizens.
Why Do We Need Schemes Like CPF LIFE?
Longer Life Expectancy
People live longer today. So, they need money for more years after retirement.
Changing Family Setup
Earlier, big families supported the elderly. Now, most families are small. This means each person must plan their own future.
High Medical Costs
As people age, they need more healthcare. A steady income helps cover these expenses.
CPF LIFE Scheme Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
| Monthly pension amount | S$1250 |
| Starting age for payout | 65 to 70 years (your choice) |
| Option for low savings | Retirement Sum Scheme (RSS) |
| Automatic enrolment | For those with S$60,000+ |
| Application process | Online via Singpass portal |
| First payout date | June 2025 |
FAQs
What is CPF LIFE?
It’s a monthly pension for seniors in Singapore.
When does CPF LIFE start?
It starts from June 2025.
What’s the payout amount?
S$1250 per month.
Who can apply?
Singapore citizens or PRs aged 65+ with S$60,000+ in CPF.
How to apply?
Use the Singpass portal online.
