S$6,000 SkillsFuture JS Scheme Launches in 2025 – You In? If you’re a Singaporean who’s recently lost your job or worried about job security, good news!
From 15th April 2025 , the SkillsFuture JS (Jobseeker Support) Scheme will give eligible citizens up to S$6,000 over 6 months to help you stay afloat while you look for a new job.
It’s not just a financial safety net — it’s also meant to encourage active job hunting with structured support.
Let’s get into the details: who’s eligible, how much you can get, what to do, and how to make the most of this.
Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | April 15, 2025 |
| Max Payout | Up to S$6,000 across 6 months |
| Eligibility | SCs aged 21+, income ≤ S$5,000, involuntarily unemployed |
| Monthly Points Requirement | Yes – tied to job search activities |
| Application Link | go.gov.sg/jobseekersupport |
| Special Provision | PRs eligible from Q1 2026 |
Why Jobseeker Scheme Was Introduced
The world of work is changing fast. Industries are evolving and layoffs are happening more often and Singaporeans are finding themselves out of work unexpectedly.
To help bridge the gap and keep people engaged in the job market, the government has launched this scheme.
Instead of just giving money, the SkillsFuture JS Scheme ties payouts to job-hunting efforts , so recipients stay connected to employment opportunities and continue building their skills.
According to Workforce Singapore (WSG), the aim is to support around 25,000 workers each year during times of career transition.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for the SkillsFuture JS Scheme, you must meet all of the following conditions:
- Singaporean , aged 21 years or older (PRs can apply starting early 2026)
- Earned S$5,000 or less monthly before CPF deductions in the last 12 months
- Worked at least six months in the past year
- Involuntarily unemployed for at least one month (e.g., retrenched, laid off, dismissed, or due to medical reasons)
- Live in a home with an Annual Value (AV) under S$31,000
- Not received JS payouts in the last three years
Special Rule for Early Applicants:
Those who became unemployed on or after April 1, 2024 , but didn’t work for six months , can still qualify if they apply by June 15, 2025 .
How Much Can You Get?
Maximum payout is S$6,000 over six months , with the amount decreasing slightly each month:
| Month | Payout |
|---|---|
| 1 | S$1,500 |
| 2 | S$1,250 |
| 3 | S$1,000 |
| 4–6 | S$750/month |
Note: Your payout cannot exceed your previous average gross income .
For example, if you were earning $1,000/month before unemployment, your monthly JS payout will cap at that amount.
How the Points System Works
You must actively look for jobs and earn points every month through approved activities:
Monthly Point Requirements:
- Months 1–3 : 10 points/month
- Months 4–6 : 5 points/month
Approved Activities & Points Earned:
| Activity | Points |
|---|---|
| Attend job interviews | 4 points (no limit per month) |
| Complete coaching sessions | 4 points (max 4/month) |
| Update resume or LinkedIn profile | 2 points (max 2/month) |
| Submit job applications | 1 point per app (max 5/month) |
| Network with professionals | 3 points (max 3/month) |
You’ll need to upload proof (like screenshots or confirmation emails) via an online portal to claim your payout.
Real-Life Example: John’s Story
John, 35, was retrenched from his marketing job. His salary was S$4,500/month .
He applied for the JS Scheme and got the full S$6,000 over six months.
During that time, he attended career coaching, updated his LinkedIn and went for interviews — all helping him hit his monthly point targets easily.
By the fourth month, he landed a better-paying role — thanks to reskilling through a SkillsFuture JS course .
How to Apply – Step-by-Step
Here’s how to get started:
- Prepare documents:
- Termination letter
- Salary records
- Proof of unemployment
- Apply online at:
go.gov.sg/jobseekersupport - Fill out personal, employment and financial details
- Wait for approval (usually within 10 business days)
- Submit proof of job search activities monthly
- Payouts are disbursed via PayNow-NRIC, GIRO or GovCash after verification (approx. 3-4 weeks)
Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
- Start early — apply as soon as you’ve been unemployed for a month.
- Plan ahead — schedule interviews and coaching sessions so you don’t miss your point goals.
- Keep proof handy — save screenshots, emails and certificates right away.
- Stay active — even if you land a job quickly, completing the month’s activities ensures you get the full payout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing monthly point submissions → forfeited payout
- Applying too late → missed eligibility window
- Failing to provide proper proof → rejection
- Ignoring updates from WSG → confusion or delays
How Does Singapore Compare Globally?
Singapore’s approach stands out:
- USA : Offers unemployment benefits but no activity tracking.
- UK : Universal Credit requires job search but offers lower amounts.
- Australia : “JobSeeker” payment comes with strict mutual obligations but limited flexibility.
Singapore’s model blends financial support with career momentum — helping people bounce back stronger.
FAQs
Can I work part-time while receiving payouts?
Yes, as long as your income is below the threshold and you meet point targets.
What if I find a job during the six months?
Great! Payments stop when you’re employed full-time, but part-time work may still count depending on circumstances.
Can I appeal if my application gets rejected?
Yes — submit an appeal with supporting documents through the portal.
Do SkillsFuture JS courses count towards points?
Not unless they’re officially linked to job search activities.