Starting a family can be joyful but also very expensive. To help parents, the Singapore government gives financial support through the Baby Bonus Scheme. This support helps cover early costs like diapers, preschool, and doctor visits. The scheme also encourages families to plan for their children’s future.
In 2025, this scheme gives parents up to $13,000 per child. The money is paid in small amounts over several years, and there is also a special savings account called the Child Development Account (CDA). The government matches what parents put into this account, which helps savings grow quickly.
This support is part of the government’s plan to make Singapore more family-friendly. It helps parents feel more confident about raising children. Whether you are a first-time parent or have a big family, this scheme can help you manage costs and prepare for your child’s future.
What Is the Baby Bonus Scheme?
The Baby Bonus Scheme includes two main parts:
- Cash Gifts: Paid in stages during the child’s early years.
- CDA Savings Support: A savings account with money from the government.
There is also a Child Savings Account (CSA), where the cash gift is placed. The government created this plan to support families with everyday needs and long-term planning.
Who Can Get the Baby Bonus?
Not every child can receive this support. Here are the rules:
- The child must be a Singapore citizen.
- Parents should be lawfully married.
- The child must be born on or after 14 February 2023 to get enhanced benefits.
- Babies born from 18 February 2025 will receive the highest amount.
- Children who become citizens after birth may get part of the benefit.
Parents can use the LifeSG app or website to check if their child qualifies.
What Is the Child Development Account (CDA)?
The CDA is a savings account for your child. The government adds money in two ways:
- First Step Grant: A starting amount given automatically.
- Dollar-for-Dollar Matching: The government matches what parents save, up to a limit.
From 18 Feb 2025, children who are the 3rd or more in the family will get a larger First Step Grant of $10,000.
Where Can CDA Money Be Used?
Money in the CDA can only be spent at Approved Institutions (AIs) for things such as:
- Childcare and preschool fees
- Doctor visits and hospital costs
- Special education needs
- Medical items and health products
This ensures the money is used to help the child grow in a healthy and educated environment.
How to Register for Baby Bonus Support
Parents can apply online starting from 1 July 2024. It is easy and fast:
- Go to the LifeSG Website or use the LifeSG App
- Submit your child’s details and documents
- Wait for approval and the start of payments
Apply as early as possible after the baby is born to receive full benefits.
Extra Help for Big Families
If you have three or more children, the Large Families Scheme gives extra help:
- Starting 18 February 2025, the CDA First Step Grant is doubled from $5,000 to $10,000 for 3rd and later children.
- This extra amount supports parents handling the costs of raising bigger families.
The goal is to reduce the financial pressure on large households and encourage family growth.
Why This Support Is Important
Raising a child in Singapore can be costly, but the government is helping through this scheme. The Baby Bonus gives parents more freedom to focus on raising healthy, happy children instead of worrying about money.
This plan offers both short-term relief and long-term benefits. Whether you’re buying baby clothes, paying medical bills, or saving for school, the Baby Bonus Scheme makes a big difference in the early years of parenting.