In August 2025, many Singaporeans will benefit from government support under the permanent Goods and Services Tax Voucher (GSTV) scheme. Eligible individuals can receive a combined total of up to $1,300, including both cash and MediSave components, which aims to provide meaningful assistance with daily living costs and healthcare needs.
The GST Voucher scheme is a long-standing initiative that began in 2012. It forms part of Singapore’s ongoing social support system, designed to help lower- and middle-income citizens manage the financial impact of the Goods and Services Tax while easing the burden of everyday expenses.
Over the years, the GSTV scheme has been adjusted to reflect rising living costs and incomes. For 2025, the income ceiling for the cash payout has been increased from $34,000 to $39,000 for the Year of Assessment 2024, allowing those with slightly higher incomes to remain eligible.
Eligibility for GSTV Cash Payout
The GSTV cash payout is available to adults who meet specific eligibility criteria. These are primarily based on age, income, property ownership, and the annual value (AV) of the home. The AV is determined by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore and reflects the estimated annual rental value of the property.
To qualify for the maximum cash payout of $850, an individual must be 21 years or older in 2025, have an assessable income of $39,000 or less, own only one property, and reside in a home with an AV of $21,000 or less.
Individuals who meet the age and income criteria but live in a home with an AV between $21,000 and $31,000 are eligible for a reduced payout of $450. Citizens who own more than one property are not eligible for the GSTV cash component.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025:
- Age 21 or above, income up to $39,000, one property, home AV up to $21,000: $850
- Age 21 or above, income up to $39,000, one property, home AV $21,001–$31,000: $450
- More than one property: Not eligible
GSTV Cash Payment Schedule
The cash payout will be automatically distributed to eligible citizens who have registered in time. The disbursement dates depend on the payment method:
- PayNow linked to NRIC: From 6 August 2025
- GIRO (bank transfer): From 15 August 2025
- GovCash: From 22 August 2025
Eligibility for GSTV MediSave Top-Ups
MediSave top-ups are specifically intended for seniors aged 65 and above who meet the eligibility requirements. The top-ups are deposited directly into the CPF MediSave accounts, which can be used for hospital bills, outpatient treatments, and approved health insurance.
The top-up amount depends on the senior’s age and the AV of their property. Older seniors and those living in homes with lower AV receive higher amounts. For instance, seniors aged 85 or above living in homes with AV up to $21,000 are eligible for the maximum $450 top-up.
These MediSave credits will be automatically applied starting 11 August 2025, and seniors do not need to reapply if they are already enrolled in the scheme.
Payment Methods for GSTV Benefits
The government has organized different payment methods to ensure timely distribution of benefits:
- PayNow linked to NRIC provides the fastest access to funds starting 6 August 2025
- GIRO bank transfers begin on 15 August 2025
- GovCash withdrawal is available from 22 August 2025
Registration and Late Applications
The sign-up period for August 2025 GSTV payments closed on 13 July 2025. Citizens who registered before this date will receive their payouts in the August cycle.
Those who apply between 14 July 2025 and 20 June 2026 will still be eligible, but payments will be processed within two months after registration. Applications can be submitted online at govbenefits.gov.sg using Singpass.
Notifications and Scam Awareness
After the benefits are credited, recipients will receive an SMS from “gov.sg” confirming the payment. Official messages only provide payment details and do not request personal information, bank credentials, or any action.
Citizens without a Singpass-linked mobile number will receive a notification letter at their NRIC-registered address. Residents are advised to remain vigilant against scams.
Additional Government Support in 2025
The GSTV benefits are part of a larger set of financial measures introduced in Budget 2025. This includes SG60 vouchers, CDC vouchers, and various rebates aimed at helping households manage living costs. Combined with the GSTV payouts, eligible citizens may receive up to $1,300 in August 2025, supporting both daily expenses and healthcare needs.