KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- SG60 Vouchers are part of Singapore’s SG60 cost-of-living support to help households manage daily expenses.
- Unused or poorly planned voucher spending leads to real SGD value loss, especially before expiry deadlines.
- Households should plan early, prioritise essentials, and track official updates to maximise voucher value.
SG60 Vouchers are meant to ease cost pressures for Singapore households during SG60 celebrations. Poor planning, however, can reduce their real value.
This guide highlights the most common mistakes and how to avoid them so every SGD works harder for your household.
SG60 Voucher Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Offset daily living costs for Singapore households |
| Valid Uses | Participating heartland merchants, hawkers, wet markets, selected supermarkets |
| Invalid Uses | Overseas spending, luxury retailers, non-participating chains |
| Expiry | Strict expiry dates apply (varies by tranche) |
| Access | Singpass-linked or CDC-managed platforms |
Mistake #1: Not Understanding Where SG60 Vouchers Can Be Used
Many residents assume SG60 Vouchers work like cash. They do not.
These vouchers are restricted to approved local merchants, mainly heartland businesses and selected supermarkets. They cannot be used online with overseas platforms or at non-participating chains.
How to avoid this
- Check the official merchant list from your CDC before shopping
- Prioritise vendors you already frequent
- Plan purchases in advance to avoid checkout issues
Mistake #2: Waiting Until the Last Minute to Spend
Every year, vouchers expire unused simply due to delay.
Last-minute redemption often results in unnecessary purchases, poor value, or unused balances.
How to avoid this
- Mark expiry dates clearly in your calendar
- Spread usage across multiple shopping trips
- Treat vouchers as part of your monthly budget, not a bonus
Mistake #3: Spending on Non-Essentials
Using vouchers for impulse buys reduces their economic benefit.
The purpose of SG60 Vouchers is to replace essential spending, not increase discretionary consumption.
Smarter uses
- Groceries and household staples
- Hawker meals and daily food expenses
- School-related items
- Pharmacy and basic healthcare needs
Mistake #4: Poor Household Coordination
In multi-member households, uncoordinated usage leads to duplication and wasted value.
How to avoid this
- Track voucher usage at household level
- Assign categories such as groceries or meals
- Coordinate across generations, especially in shared households
Mistake #5: Ignoring Discount Stacking Opportunities
SG60 Vouchers can often be used together with in-store promotions and loyalty programmes.
Failing to do so means missing extra savings.
Best practice
- Use vouchers during supermarket promotions
- Combine with member discounts where allowed
- Check weekly merchant deals before redeeming
Mistake #6: Falling for Scams or Sharing Voucher Details
Scammers actively target government support schemes.
Common risks include fake SMS links, phishing websites, and calls requesting Singpass or QR details.
Stay safe
- Access vouchers only via official Singpass-linked platforms
- Never share QR codes, OTPs, or login details
- Refer only to official government agencies
Mistake #7: Treating Vouchers as Long-Term Financial Solutions
SG60 Vouchers offer temporary relief, not permanent financial security.
They should not replace budgeting, savings, or insurance planning.
Correct approach
- Use vouchers to offset essentials
- Redirect freed-up cash to savings, insurance, or debt repayment
- View vouchers as a buffer against inflation, not income
Mistake #8: Not Checking Policy Updates
Voucher rules and merchant lists can change.
Missing updates may result in incomplete redemption or incorrect assumptions.
What to do
- Follow CDC and People’s Association updates
- Check official announcements regularly
- Confirm rules before large purchases
Why This Matters
In a high-cost environment, unredeemed vouchers are equivalent to lost income. Strategic use of SG60 Vouchers improves household cash flow, reduces out-of-pocket spending, and strengthens short-term financial resilience. Planning early and using vouchers on essentials creates measurable value, especially for families managing tight budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can SG60 Vouchers be used at supermarkets in Singapore?
Yes, but only at participating supermarkets listed by the CDC.
Are SG60 Vouchers taxable?
No. They are government assistance and not subject to income tax.
Can SG60 Vouchers be transferred to family members?
Rules vary. Some are household-based, others are Singpass-linked and non-transferable.
What happens if I do not use my vouchers?
Unused vouchers expire and cannot be refunded or extended.
Are SG60 Vouchers the same as CDC Vouchers?
No. They are related but issued under different support frameworks.