Singapore has officially confirmed the continuation of its Public Transport Voucher (PTV) scheme for 2025, offering eligible households up to $50 in assistance.
This initiative aims to alleviate commuting costs for lower-income Singaporeans amid rising transportation fares. Here’s a detailed look at who qualifies, how to apply, and when to expect your voucher.
What Are Public Transport Vouchers?
Public Transport Vouchers (PTVs) are part of Singapore’s ongoing support measures to help lower-income households cope with public transport fare increases.
The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Transport and the Public Transport Council (PTC), in partnership with community organizations and grassroots advisers.
For 2025, each approved household will receive a $50 voucher that can be used to top up stored-value cards or purchase monthly concession passes.
Why Was the PTV Scheme Extended in 2025?
The fare adjustment of 7% announced in 2024 by the Public Transport Council has increased commuting costs across bus and MRT services.
Recognizing the burden this may place on lower-income families, the government expanded the PTV scheme to benefit more households, particularly those affected by inflation and living cost pressures.
The 2025 edition of the scheme continues this support and builds on Singapore’s commitment to equity and accessible transportation.
Who Qualifies for the 2025 Public Transport Voucher?
To be eligible for the $50 public transport voucher, households must meet specific income and residency criteria. Here’s a breakdown:
Eligibility Criteria for 2025 PTV
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Household Monthly Income | Gross monthly household income per person must not exceed $1,600 |
| Singapore Citizenship | At least one household member must be a Singapore Citizen |
| Residential Type | Applies to residents living in public housing (HDB) |
| Past Recipients | Households who received past vouchers must reapply |
| Not on Automatic Disbursement | Households not automatically selected need to submit applications |
This means that both new and returning applicants need to submit fresh applications if they meet the income threshold, as the scheme is not recurring unless re-applied for.
How Much Can You Get?
Each approved household will receive a $50 voucher that can be used for:
- Topping up adult or student EZ-Link cards
- Purchasing monthly concession passes
- Offsetting commuting costs for multiple household members
Households can receive more than one voucher if they meet special qualifying conditions (such as having elderly members or students), but each case is assessed individually.
When Will the 2025 Vouchers Be Distributed?
Payment and Distribution Schedule
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | 1 August 2025 |
| Application Closes | 31 October 2025 |
| Disbursement Begins | Mid-November 2025 onwards |
| Voucher Expiry Date | 31 March 2026 |
Vouchers will be mailed or digitally assigned to eligible households by grassroots organizations starting in November 2025, giving families enough time to redeem before the year-end holiday rush.
How to Apply for the Public Transport Voucher?
Applying for the 2025 PTV is straightforward and can be done in two main ways:
1. Online Application via Government Portal
Eligible households can log in with their Singpass to submit applications through:
- go.gov.sg/ptv (official site)
2. In-Person Application at Community Centres (CCs)
Residents can also apply at nearest Community Clubs or Residents’ Committees, where assistance is available for those unfamiliar with online forms.
Note: You must bring your NRIC and proof of income (e.g., CPF statements, salary slips) during in-person applications.
Can You Appeal If Rejected?
Yes. If your application is rejected but you believe you meet the criteria, you can submit an appeal through the same portal or at your community centre.
Each appeal will be reviewed based on updated documentation and household circumstances.
Why This Matters for Retirees and Low-Income Groups
Public transport remains the primary mode of commuting for many Singaporeans, especially the elderly, students, and working-class families.
With fare hikes affecting daily expenses, the PTV scheme eases financial pressure and ensures that no one is left behind when it comes to affordable mobility.
Additionally, financial planners and social workers have praised the initiative as a practical supplement to existing schemes such as ComCare, Silver Support Scheme, and Workfare.
Government’s Commitment to Inclusive Mobility
Singapore’s investment in the Public Transport Voucher Scheme is part of a broader commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and accessible urban living.
As fare adjustments become more regular due to rising operational costs and infrastructure upgrades, support measures like the PTV ensure equity is maintained.
Conclusion
The 2025 Public Transport Voucher Scheme is a timely intervention for many households navigating the rising costs of daily living.
With up to $50 in travel support, eligible Singaporeans can look forward to more affordable commutes.
Make sure to check your eligibility, apply early, and share this information with family members who might benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use the $50 voucher for private transport or ride-hailing services like Grab?
No. The voucher is strictly meant for public transport use, such as MRT, bus services, and concession passes. It cannot be used for private hire, taxi rides, or petrol.
2. Will receiving this voucher affect my other government support like Silver Support or ComCare?
No. The Public Transport Voucher is independent of other government support schemes and does not impact your eligibility or payouts under programs like ComCare, Workfare, or Silver Support Scheme.
3. What happens if I forget to redeem my voucher by the expiry date?
Unused vouchers expire on 31 March 2026. If not redeemed by then, they become void and cannot be replaced, so it is important to use them promptly.