Sandwich generation in Singapore : what support is available for low-income families ?

As part of the 2026 budget, the Singapore government has significantly strengthened its support measures to combat inflation and the rising cost of living, with a focus on low-income families and so-called « sandwich generation » households (those caring for both young children and elderly parents).

Direct Cash Payments (Assurance Package)

The government has injected additional funds into the Assurance Package to mitigate the impact of the GST (local VAT) increase:

Singaporean adults will receive cash payments ranging from $200 to $800, depending on their income and their Real estate assets.

An additional exceptional payment (Cost-of-Living (COL) Special Payment) is specifically planned for low-income households to help them cope with rising food and energy prices.

Housing and household utility support

Families living in high-density housing (HDB) will receive discounts on their utility bills (water, electricity), potentially amounting to several months of free service for the smallest apartments.

Each Singaporean household will receive a new tranche of $600 in CDC vouchers, redeemable at participating local merchants and supermarkets.

Education and Early Childhood

Singapore is focusing on social mobility from a young age: The cap on monthly fees for childcare centers run by partner operators has been reduced, allowing parents to make substantial savings.

A one-time contribution is paid into the Edusave or Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) of all Singaporean students to help cover school and extracurricular expenses.