S$6,000 SkillsFuture JS Scheme Launches in 2025: Starting from April 15, 2025, Singaporeans facing involuntary unemployment will have a new lifeline: the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) Scheme. Offering up to S$6,000 over six months, this groundbreaking program is part of Singapore’s broader strategy to future-proof its workforce and support citizens during challenging times. If you’ve recently been laid off or are worried about job security, understanding this scheme is crucial. In this article, we’ll break down who qualifies, how much you can receive, how to apply, and smart tips to maximize your benefits — all in simple, friendly terms you can trust.
S$6,000 SkillsFuture JS Scheme Launches in 2025
The SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme is a thoughtfully designed safety net for Singaporeans navigating involuntary unemployment. By providing financial support tied to proactive job search efforts, it helps individuals stay financially stable while remaining connected to the workforce. If you or someone you know may qualify, don’t wait — start your application early, stay engaged, and make the most of this golden opportunity!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | April 15, 2025 |
| Max Payout | Up to S$6,000 across six months |
| Eligibility | Singapore Citizens (PRs eligible from Q1 2026), income ≤ S$5,000, unemployed ≥1 month involuntarily |
| Payout Breakdown | S$1,500 (1st month), S$1,250 (2nd), S$1,000 (3rd), S$750 (4th-6th months) |
| Job Search Requirement | Minimum points monthly through approved activities |
| Application Link | Apply Here |
Why Was the SkillsFuture JS Scheme Introduced?
In today’s fast-changing economy, job disruptions are increasingly common. To prevent long-term unemployment and financial strain, the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme was designed to offer both financial aid and structured job search guidance.
By tying payouts to active job-hunting efforts, Singapore ensures that individuals not only receive support but also stay connected to employment opportunities, helping maintain resilience and career momentum.
According to Workforce Singapore (WSG), the program aims to help about 25,000 workers annually.
Detailed Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify for the SkillsFuture JS Scheme if you meet all of these conditions:
- Singapore Citizen, aged 21 years and above (PRs eligible from early 2026).
- Gross monthly income of S$5,000 or less (before CPF deductions) in the past 12 months.
- Employed for at least six months in the last year.
- Involuntarily unemployed for at least one month (e.g., retrenchment, business closure, dismissal, medical).
- Living in a property with an Annual Value (AV) not exceeding S$31,000.
- Not received JS Scheme payouts in the last three years.
Special Concession: Those unemployed from April 1, 2024, onwards can qualify even if they did not meet the six-month work requirement — but must apply by June 15, 2025.
How Much Can You Receive?
The maximum payout is S$6,000 spread over six months, decreasing slightly each month:
- Month 1: S$1,500
- Month 2: S$1,250
- Month 3: S$1,000
- Months 4 to 6: S$750/month
Important: Your payout cannot exceed your previous average gross income.
Example: If you earned S$1,000/month before unemployment, your monthly JS payout is capped at S$1,000.
How Does the Points System Work?
Receiving payouts isn’t automatic. You must actively job hunt and earn points through approved activities every month:
Points Requirement
- Months 1–3: 10 points per month
- Months 4–6: 5 points per month
Approved Activities (Examples)
| Activity | Points Earned |
|---|---|
| Attending job interviews | 4 points (no monthly cap) |
| Completing career coaching sessions | 4 points (max 4 points/month) |
| Updating resume or LinkedIn | 2 points (max 2 points/month) |
| Submitting job applications | 1 point each (max 5 points/month) |
| Networking with professionals | 3 points (max 3 points/month) |
You must submit proof (screenshots, emails, attendance certificates) through an online portal to earn your payout!
Real-Life Example: How John Benefited
John, 35, was retrenched from a mid-level marketing role. He earned S$4,500 monthly before losing his job. By joining the JS Scheme:
- He received S$6,000 in total payouts.
- Attended career coaching, interviews, and updated his LinkedIn to easily hit the required points.
- Landed a new job in his fourth month, doubling his previous salary after reskilling through a SkillsFuture course!
S$6,000 SkillsFuture JS Scheme Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare documents: Termination letter, past salary records, proof of unemployment.
- Apply online: Visit go.gov.sg/jobseekersupport.
- Submit application: Fill in personal, financial, and employment details.
- Wait for approval: Processing typically takes 10 business days.
- Monthly submission: Upload proof of job search activities via the portal.
Payouts are disbursed via PayNow-NRIC, GIRO, or GovCash approximately 3–4 weeks after monthly points are verified.
Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
- Start early: Apply as soon as you hit one month of unemployment.
- Plan activities: Schedule interviews, coaching, and networking events to meet points easily.
- Record everything: Save proof immediately after each job search activity.
- Stay active: Even if you find a job early, completing monthly activities ensures you maximize your payout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing point submissions, resulting in forfeited payouts.
- Applying too late (after eligibility window closes).
- Failing to provide proper proof (e.g., screenshots, confirmation emails).
- Ignoring official instructions and updates from WSG.
How Singapore’s Support Compares Globally?
Compared to other countries, Singapore’s model is unique:
- USA: Offers unemployment benefits but not linked to job-hunting activities.
- UK: Universal Credit requires active job search but offers lower amounts.
- Australia: “JobSeeker” payments require mutual obligations, but payouts are income-tested heavily.
Singapore’s approach blends financial aid with career momentum — a smart move ensuring long-term workforce resilience.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work part-time while receiving JS payouts?
Yes, as long as your new job’s salary doesn’t exceed the income threshold, and you continue meeting monthly points requirements.
2. What if I find a job during the six months?
Congratulations! Your payouts will stop once you’re re-employed full-time. However, part-time work may still qualify depending on conditions.
3. Can I appeal if my application is rejected?
Yes, appeals can be lodged through the official portal with supporting documents.
4. Will attending courses count towards points?
Not directly. However, some SkillsFuture courses linked to job-search strategies may count if officially recognized.
