In a nation as fast-paced and developed as Singapore, financial hardships can still affect many households, especially those with low or no income. Whether caused by job loss, illness, or age-related issues, these difficulties can disrupt daily life and basic needs. Recognizing the importance of timely and targeted support, the Singapore government continues to prioritize comprehensive aid programmes for its citizens.
One such initiative is the ComCare Assistance Programme, which serves as a financial safety net for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents facing economic distress. It’s designed to cover a wide range of circumstances—from urgent emergencies to long-term disabilities—offering tailored support that includes direct cash payouts, medical subsidies, and essential household aid. This ensures that vulnerable communities are not left behind during tough times.
With different tiers of aid—Interim, Short-to-Medium-Term (SMTA), and Long-Term Assistance (LTA)—the programme is flexible and accessible. Whether someone has been recently laid off or is permanently unable to work, ComCare has a solution to meet their needs. By applying through Social Service Offices or the Support Go Where portal, individuals can seek help in a dignified and confidential manner, empowering them to regain stability and dignity.
What is the ComCare Assistance Programme?
The ComCare Assistance Programme is run by Singapore’s Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). It’s aimed at helping lower-income households, seniors, and individuals in distress due to unemployment, illness, or lack of family support. The programme is categorized into three levels of financial aid:
- ComCare Interim Assistance for emergency needs
- Short-to-Medium-Term Assistance (SMTA) for temporary setbacks
- Long-Term Assistance (LTA) for individuals unable to work permanently
Each category is uniquely structured to provide financial, medical, and social support depending on the applicant’s situation and eligibility.
ComCare Interim Assistance (Emergency Relief)
This aid is for individuals or families experiencing sudden crises, such as the loss of income, housing instability, or medical emergencies. It provides:
- Cash support
- Food rations
- Supermarket vouchers
Eligibility:
- At least one household member must be a Singapore Citizen
- Monthly income per household member must not exceed $800
How to Apply:
- Visit the nearest Social Service Office (SSO)
- Reach out to a Family Service Centre (FSC), Community Centre, or Grassroots Leader
- Those referred by the Community Justice Centre (CJC) or residing in special shelters may also qualify
ComCare SMTA: Short-to-Medium-Term Relief
This tier helps those who are temporarily unable to manage their finances due to job loss, caregiving responsibilities, or short-term illness. The assistance includes:
- Monthly cash payouts
- Bill payment support (rent, utilities, etc.)
- Medical assistance at public hospitals
- Employment services and job training
- Referrals to additional social support agencies
Eligibility Criteria:
- At least one immediate family member must be a Singapore Citizen
- Household income per person ≤ $800
- Applicants must have minimal savings and limited or no family support
- Consideration is still possible for those slightly above the income limit
Application Process:
- Submit online via the Support Go Where portal
- Or apply in person at the nearest SSO
- Required documents: bank statements, medical records, utility bills, and identity cards
ComCare Long-Term Assistance (LTA)
This level of support is for individuals who are permanently unable to work due to age, chronic illness, or disability. It offers:
- Monthly financial assistance, based on family size
- Medical subsidies at public healthcare institutions
- Free or highly subsidised access to other support services
New Assistance Rates (April 2025):
- 1 person: $760 (was $640)
- 2 persons: $1,250 (was $1,080)
- 3 persons: $1,760 (was $1,510)
- 4 persons: $2,230 (was $1,930)
Eligibility Conditions:
- Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Must be permanently unfit to work
- Have little or no financial/family support
- Even seniors receiving minimal CPF Life payouts may qualify
- Elderly with children earning below $800 per capita also eligible
Application Steps:
- Visit a Social Service Office
- Submit supporting documents including medical certificates, bank statements, identity cards, and CPF or insurance papers
Additional Help and Contact Info
To ensure easy access, the government provides multiple ways to reach out for help or submit an application:
- ComCare Hotline: 1800 222 0000 (Free from landlines in Singapore)
- Email: Ask_SSO@msf.gov.sg
- Walk-in Support: Visit the nearest Social Service Office (SSO)
All personal data is handled under the Personal Data Protection Act, guaranteeing applicants’ privacy and confidentiality throughout the process.
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