To ease the impact of rising transport costs on lower-income families, the Singapore government continues to offer Public Transport Vouchers (PTVs) worth $50 each to eligible households in 2025. This targeted support is part of a larger effort to ensure affordable and inclusive access to public transport, especially following fare adjustments.
Public Transport Vouchers 2025
Overview
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Voucher value | $50 per successful application |
| Purpose | Offset rising public transport fares |
| Target group | Lower-income Singaporean households |
| Application method | Application via CCs or online through appointed grassroots organisations |
| Disbursement mode | Credited to the applicant’s registered EZ-Link or SimplyGo card |
| Redemption validity | Usually valid for 12 months after issuance |
| Official portal | www.go.gov.sg/ptv |
Why This Voucher Is Being Rolled Out Now
With regular fare reviews by the Public Transport Council, public transport fares may rise due to higher energy prices, inflation, and increased operational costs. These adjustments, while necessary for system sustainability, can disproportionately affect lower-income households.
To address this, the government allocates a Public Transport Fund to issue vouchers that help cushion the cost of daily commuting. The move ensures that essential transport remains accessible and affordable, even amid broader economic pressures.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the $50 Public Transport Voucher in 2025, households must meet the following conditions:
- At least one Singapore citizen in the household
- Monthly household income per person of $1,600 or less
- Reside in HDB flats or other qualifying residences
- Must apply through the proper channels (vouchers are not auto-disbursed)
Those who previously received a voucher may apply again, but approval is subject to reassessment.
Breakdown of the Scheme
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Voucher amount | $50 credited to transport card |
| Use | To offset bus and MRT rides |
| One-time or repeatable | May apply again if eligible, but not guaranteed |
| Distribution agencies | Community Centres (CCs) and local grassroots organisations |
| How to redeem | Voucher is directly added to your travel card for immediate use |
Multiple members of the same household may not each receive separate vouchers; it is one per eligible household.
Payment Timeline
Applications for the 2025 Public Transport Voucher are expected to open in the second half of the year, depending on when the fare adjustments are implemented.
- Application period: Typically starts a few weeks before the fare hike takes effect
- Voucher issuance: Within 2–3 weeks of application approval
- Usage period: Valid for 12 months after being added to the transport card
Announcements will be made via national media and government websites once the application window opens.
How to Apply
Applications can be made through:
- Your nearest Community Centre (CC)
- Online application portals (usually hosted at go.gov.sg/ptv)
- Assistance from grassroots leaders or Social Service Offices (for those without internet access)
Applicants must provide:
- Proof of income (e.g., CPF contributions, payslips)
- NRICs of all household members
- Details of the registered EZ-Link/SimplyGo card to load the voucher
You will be notified by SMS or mail once your application is approved.
Automatic Disbursement
Unlike the Assurance Package or Silver Support Scheme, the Public Transport Voucher is not automatically issued. Households must actively apply, even if they’ve qualified in previous years. However, the application process is kept simple and accessible to ensure no one is left out due to technological or language barriers.
Tips on Using the Voucher Wisely
Once credited to your EZ-Link or SimplyGo card, the $50 voucher will be used automatically with each ride on public buses or MRT services.
To maximize value:
- Top up your card early after voucher crediting
- Track your transport usage via the SimplyGo app
- Ensure the card is registered to the applicant’s name for proper usage
The voucher cannot be withdrawn as cash and is strictly for travel fare payments.
A Practical Measure for Everyday Relief
The Public Transport Voucher scheme is a practical and targeted way to ensure that lower-income families are not priced out of essential mobility. With Singapore’s continued emphasis on a car-lite society and environmental sustainability, supporting public transport users is a long-term national priority.
For many families, the $50 voucher helps cover at least a month’s worth of rides—a meaningful savings for those living paycheck to paycheck.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need to apply for the voucher every year?
A: Yes. PTVs are not auto-renewed. You must apply each year when the scheme opens.
Q2: How will I know if I got the voucher?
A: You’ll receive an SMS or letter from your local CC or agency after approval.
Q3: Can I get the voucher if I live in private housing?
A: Most recipients live in HDB flats, but other cases are reviewed based on income and need.
Q4: Can I apply online?
A: Yes. Once the scheme opens, online applications are typically accepted via the official portal.
Q5: Can I use the voucher for private transport or Grab rides?
A: No. It is only valid for bus and MRT fares via registered transport cards.