Losing a job can be tough, especially when you’re struggling to meet daily needs. To help people during this difficult time, the Singapore government has introduced a new financial support program for jobseekers. It aims to give people some money every month for six months while they look for new work or join skills training.
This program is called the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) Scheme. It will offer up to SGD 6,000 in total to each qualified person. The main goal is to help workers who lost their jobs due to company closure, layoffs, or economic changes. It also encourages them to stay active in finding jobs or upgrading their skills.
The JS Scheme is part of Singapore’s bigger plan to make sure the workforce remains flexible and ready for future challenges. The support doesn’t just give out money — it also requires jobseekers to keep looking for work or attend career programs, creating a balanced system of help and responsibility.
What Is the Skills Future Jobseeker Support Scheme?
The JS Scheme is a new government program designed to help unemployed people while they look for a new job. The program:
- Offers cash support to cover basic needs.
- Encourages jobseekers to attend training or take upskilling opportunities.
- Helps people move into new jobs, especially in industries changing due to technology or the economy.
- Reduces the chance of people staying jobless for a long time.
- Supports workers in switching careers or industries.
With this program, the government wants to reduce stress for jobseekers and keep them focused on improving their future employment opportunities.
Who Can Get This Help?
Not everyone can apply for this scheme. It’s meant for those who are really in need and willing to work for a better future.
Monthly Support Breakdown
The financial aid is given out over six months, but the amount decreases each month.
- The first payout is the highest to provide quick help.
- The amount goes down each month to push jobseekers to find work faster.
- If someone finds a job before six months, the payments stop.
Why This Scheme Is Good for Jobseekers
This new program has many benefits that go beyond just giving out money:
1. Covers Urgent Needs
It helps pay for rent, food, and transport — things jobseekers need while searching for new work.
2. Encourages Upskilling
People are pushed to take training or join courses that can improve their job chances.
3. Avoids Long-Term Unemployment
Since payments reduce over time, it encourages jobseekers to find work faster.
4. Keeps the Economy Steady
Giving people support helps them keep spending, which helps businesses and the overall economy.
Where the Program Can Improve
While the program is helpful, it still has a few areas that need fixing:
1. Slow Payouts
Processing applications and sending money must be quick to really help people in need.
2. Gig Workers Left Out
Freelancers and self-employed workers aren’t included. This leaves out a growing part of the workforce.
3. Time Limit May Be Too Short
Some jobseekers in special fields may need more than six months to get a job.
How to Apply for This Program
You can apply online through Workforce Singapore (WSG). Follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility based on income and job history.
- Apply online at WSG’s official website.
- Submit documents like job history, proof of retrenchment, and training certificates.
- Attend an interview if WSG asks for one.
- Wait for approval and start receiving payments if you qualify.
Make sure all your information is correct and complete so your application doesn’t get delayed.