Desperate for money and really considering whether to list your black heart on the market for some pocket cash?
Well, there might be a way out.
This November, a total of 1.4 million Singaporeans will receive their Bicentennial Bonus benefits, and according to reports…
These benefits will include a cash payment under the GST Voucher scheme, a Central Provident Fund (CPF) top-up as well as a Workfare bonus for lower-income workers.
But of course, there’s the distinct possibility that you’re not one of the 1.4 million (as we’ll find out later on). Though for the sake of your inscrutably black heart…
I hope you test positive here.
1.4 Million Singaporeans To Receive Bicentennial Bonus Benefits Like GST Vouchers In November
Back in February during Budget 2019, the Government announced an S$1.1 billion Bicentennial Bonus package to celebrate Singapore’s bicentennial, as well as to support those in need.
And it seems that the time has come.
Next month, in November, all 1.4 million Singaporean adults aged 21 years and above this year, with an assessable income of up to S$28,000 for 2018, will receive the coveted GST Voucher cash payment.
And depending on the value of their homes, they will receive either S$150 or S$300.
Singaporeans eligible for the GST Voucher, and who’ve registered their phone number with SingPass, will get an SMS notification by the end of October 2019.
“Huh but I don’t have a phone leh… how?” you ask in desperation.
Worry not, because letters will also be sent to all eligible Singaporeans. Though if you’re 21 and above, you probably should get a phone. You know, for your own convenience.
Other Bonuses
The 400,000 workers who qualify for the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) will be granted the Workfare Bicentennial Bonus this end-October.
According to the finance ministry, they will receive an additional 10 per cent of the total annual payment for work completed in 2018, or a minimum payment of S$100, to assist them with their daily expenses.
As for those with disabilities or who are below 35 years old in 2018 (and who also fulfil the WIS eligibility criteria), they will qualify for a payment of between S$100 and S$150 based off work completed last year.
In addition, a total of 300,000 Singaporeans will be eligible for CPF top-ups, and will receive both their letter notification and payment next month. Those aged between 50 and 54 will be granted S$300 to S$1,000, the sum depending on their joint CPF Ordinary and Special Account or Retirement Account balance.
To meet the criteria for the top-up, the individual’s assessable income for 2018 must not exceed S$28,000.
The person’s home should also not have an annual value of more than S$28,000 as of 31 Dec 2018, and he or she should not hold on to more than one property.
And So… Now What?
Well, if you’re a Singaporean aged 21 and above with an accessible income of up to $28,000 for 2018, congratulations;
You’ve gained access to the legendary Golden Sands Ticket.
Alright, joking, it’s a plain GST voucher but it’s admittedly still a lot of money.
Meanwhile, if you’re below 21, do not be put off by this latest development. Instead, just treat it as motivation.
Road to being 21 and legal, you know?
