The CPF LIFE (Central Provident Fund Lifelong Income for the Elderly) is Singapore’s government-backed scheme that guarantees seniors a monthly income for life.
For 2025, the payout you receive depends on your Retirement Account (RA) savings and the plan you choose — Basic, Full, or Enhanced. If you begin payouts at age 65 with a Full Retirement Sum of $213,000, you’ll receive $1,610–$1,730 per month.
Those with the Enhanced Retirement Sum of $426,000 could earn $3,100–$3,330 per month.
This program ensures that Singapore’s seniors can retire with financial confidence and stability.
Table of Contents
CPF LIFE Payment 2025 Overview
| Authority | Central Provident Fund (CPF) |
|---|---|
| Program Name | CPF LIFE (Lifelong Income for the Elderly) |
| Country | Singapore |
| Eligibility | Singapore Citizens & Permanent Residents |
| Purpose | Lifelong monthly income during retirement |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly |
| Minimum Requirement | $60,000 in CPF Retirement Savings |
| Official Website | cpf.gov.sg |
Understanding the CPF LIFE Program
CPF LIFE is a mandatory national annuity scheme introduced to provide retirees with sustainable, lifelong income. It replaces older retirement schemes and is automatically applied to eligible members who meet certain savings and age requirements.
Those with $60,000 or more in their Retirement Account (RA) will be automatically enrolled in CPF LIFE, while others can opt in voluntarily.
Eligibility Criteria for CPF LIFE in 2025
To qualify for CPF LIFE payments in 2025, you must meet the following conditions:
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Be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (PR).
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Born in 1958 or later, which means currently aged 65 or above.
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Have a minimum of $60,000 in your CPF Retirement Account before applying.
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Maintain an active CPF account (automatic inclusion if criteria are met).
“CPF LIFE offers every Singaporean the confidence of knowing they’ll have a steady income for life, no matter how long they live,” said Tan Boon Kiat, Senior Financial Planner at DBS Bank.
CPF LIFE Plan Options and Payouts (2025)
CPF LIFE offers three retirement tiers — Basic, Full, and Enhanced — each offering different payout levels and flexibility.
| Retirement Plan | Retirement Sum (Approx.) | Estimated Monthly Payout (Age 65) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Retirement Plan | $93,000 | $860 – $930 |
| Full Retirement Plan | $213,000 | $1,610 – $1,730 |
| Enhanced Retirement Plan | $426,000 | $3,100 – $3,330 |
You can also choose to start payouts later than age 65 — each year of delay can increase your monthly income by about 7%.
Types of CPF LIFE Plans
Seniors can choose between three payout options under CPF LIFE:
1. Standard Plan
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Provides a fixed monthly payout for life.
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Balances lifetime income and bequest amount.
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Ideal for retirees seeking stable, predictable income.
2. Basic Plan
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Offers a lower monthly payout, but leaves more money to beneficiaries (spouse/children) after death.
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Suitable for those prioritizing inheritance.
3. Escalating Plan
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Starts with lower monthly payouts, but increases by 2% every year.
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Helps offset inflation over time and supports longer-term retirees.
“The Escalating Plan is a smart choice for retirees who expect to live longer and want protection against inflation,” explained Elaine Lim, Retirement Policy Specialist at CPF Board.
How to Apply for CPF LIFE Payments
Applying for CPF LIFE is simple, especially if you already have sufficient CPF savings.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Log in via Singpass | Access your CPF account online |
| 2 | Navigate to “My CPF” | Choose “Retirement” tab |
| 3 | Select “Join CPF LIFE” | Start your application |
| 4 | Choose Plan | Select Standard, Basic, or Escalating |
| 5 | Review & Submit | Confirm choices and submit online |
If you already meet eligibility rules, enrollment may be automatic, and you’ll be notified via your CPF account.
Additional Support: Silver Support Scheme
Low-income seniors can receive additional assistance under the Silver Support Scheme, which provides quarterly cash supplements to help with basic living expenses. This complements CPF LIFE to ensure that all elderly Singaporeans enjoy a minimum standard of living.
“Silver Support ensures that even the most vulnerable seniors are not left behind in retirement,” stated Minister Josephine Teo, former Minister for Manpower.
Key Increases and Adjustments for 2025
| Plan Type | Annual Adjustment | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Payout Age > 65 | +7% | Each year of delay increases monthly payout by ~7% |
| Escalating Plan | +2% | Monthly payouts rise 2% yearly to offset inflation |
| Automatic Enrollment | Yes | For CPF balances ≥ $60,000 |
| Lifelong Income Guarantee | Yes | Payments continue for life |
Why CPF LIFE Matters
CPF LIFE is more than a pension — it’s Singapore’s long-term solution for retirement security. It ensures retirees never outlive their savings, provides predictable income, and supports sustainable financial independence.
With the 2025 payout levels, retirees can enjoy steady income streams that adapt to their savings levels, lifestyle, and life expectancy.
“CPF LIFE gives retirees peace of mind — knowing they’ll always have a monthly payout, no matter how long they live,” emphasized Lee Wei Ming, Director of Retirement Planning, OCBC.
FAQs
1. What is the minimum age to receive CPF LIFE payments in 2025?
You must be at least 65 years old to begin receiving CPF LIFE payouts.
2. How much do I need in my CPF account to qualify?
A minimum of $60,000 in your Retirement Account is required.
3. What happens if I delay my CPF LIFE payments?
Your payout increases by about 7% per year for every year you delay after age 65.
4. How does the Escalating Plan work?
Your monthly payout increases by 2% every year to help offset inflation.
5. Is CPF LIFE automatic for all Singaporeans?
Yes, if you meet the savings and age criteria, you’ll be automatically enrolled.
6. Can I still pass on my savings to my family?
Yes, depending on your plan, unused funds will go to your nominated beneficiaries.