The Majulah Earn and Save Bonus 2026, commonly known as the ESB, plays a major role in supporting older Singaporean workers who continue contributing to the workforce. Since many citizens remain actively employed beyond age 50, the Government created this scheme to reward consistent work and strengthen long-term retirement adequacy. Although it does not provide cash, the bonus enters CPF directly, which helps savings grow steadily at attractive interest rates.
Many people underestimate the power of this scheme because the payout occurs silently in the background. Yet it remains one of the most impactful components of the Majulah Package. Since the top-up goes directly to the Special Account or Retirement Account, it compounds year after year. In fact, the structure ensures that seniors enjoy higher CPF LIFE payouts in future, especially when they stay employed.
Because the scheme operates automatically, members do not submit any forms or applications. Instead, CPF Board reviews income information, employment data, and property details before awarding the bonus. This process keeps the scheme simple and efficient while ensuring support reaches those who genuinely qualify.
What the Earn and Save Bonus Provides
The Earn and Save Bonus is an annual CPF top-up awarded to lower and middle-income older workers. While it does not arrive as cash, it offers something more meaningful. Since the bonus enters the CPF system, it earns at least 4 percent interest each year. Over time, this growth builds a stronger retirement foundation.
Another major advantage is the automatic crediting process. Members do not track deadlines or complete forms. Instead, their CPF accounts receive the top-up based on income and employment information already recorded in the system. As a result, seniors receive support without additional effort.
Moreover, the ESB specifically targets those who continue working. Whether someone works part-time, full-time, or as a self-employed person, the bonus encourages consistent effort. Because of this, even small monthly earnings can unlock meaningful CPF growth.
Summary Table
Key Point |
Details |
|---|---|
Scheme Name |
Majulah Earn and Save Bonus 2026 |
Eligibility |
Singapore Citizens aged 51 and above |
Annual Amount |
S$400 to S$1,000 |
Payment Type |
CPF top-up only |
CPF Account Credited |
SA for ages 51 to 54, RA for ages 55 and above |
Payout Timeline |
March 2025 and March 2026 |
Minimum Interest Earned |
At least 4 percent per year |
Official Website |
Who Can Qualify for the Earn and Save Bonus
The eligibility criteria remain simple and consistent across both 2025 and 2026. To qualify, a member must meet all four conditions below.
1. Age Requirement
- Must be born on or before 31 December 1973
- Must be at least 51 years old in 2024
2. Employment Requirement
A member must be working during the assessment year. This includes:
- Employees
- Self-employed individuals such as freelancers, drivers, hawkers, tutors, and gig workers
3. Income Requirement
The average monthly income for the year must fall within the range of:
- S$500 to S$6,000
Anything below or above this range will disqualify the member. This requirement ensures the scheme supports those who actively participate in the workforce.
4. Property Requirement
Members must meet both conditions:
- Live in a property with an annual value of S$25,000 or below
- Own only one property
Since most HDB flats fall well within this limit, the majority of older Singaporeans can easily meet the housing criteria.
How Much the Member Will Receive
The ESB uses a simple and transparent structure where income determines the bonus amount.
Average Monthly Income |
Annual ESB Amount |
|---|---|
S$500 to S$2,500 |
S$1,000 |
Above S$2,500 to S$3,500 |
S$700 |
Above S$3,500 to S$6,000 |
S$400 |
Lower income results in higher support because the scheme aims to bridge retirement gaps more effectively for those who earn less. Since the system rewards continued employment, even part-time workers can enjoy a full S$1,000 boost.
If income falls below S$500, the member will not qualify. Because the scheme encourages active participation in the workforce, the minimum threshold ensures that only working individuals receive the reward.
Notes for Self-Employed Singaporeans
Self-employed individuals qualify as long as they complete two important actions each year:
- Declare Net Trade Income to IRAS or CPF Board
- Pay the required MediSave contributions
If either requirement is not fulfilled, CPF Board cannot credit the bonus. Since many freelancers overlook these steps, staying compliant helps them unlock the full benefit.
When the Bonus Will Be Paid
The ESB does not pay immediately. Instead, payouts follow a clear timeline.
- Work completed in 2024 results in payment in March 2025
- Work completed in 2025 results in payment in March 2026
The payment goes into different accounts depending on age:
- Ages 55 and above receive the money in the Retirement Account
- Ages 51 to 54 receive it in the Special Account
Because both accounts earn at least 4 percent yearly interest, every dollar grows significantly over time.
Why the Earn and Save Bonus Matters
The Earn and Save Bonus may appear modest, but it creates strong long-term value.
1. Compounding Strengthens Retirement Income
Even a recurring S$1,000 top-up eventually grows into a much larger amount. Since CPF interest compounds every year, the ESB has the potential to significantly increase CPF LIFE payouts at age 65.
2. Part-Time Work Still Unlocks Benefits
Many older workers choose part-time jobs or short-hour roles. Because the minimum income threshold starts at S$500, these individuals can still qualify for the highest bonus tier.
3. Strong Incentive to Stay Economically Active
The scheme encourages older workers to remain connected to the workforce. Even moderate income helps build retirement savings faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to apply for the Earn and Save Bonus
No. CPF Board assesses eligibility automatically using income and tax records.
2. Can I withdraw the bonus as cash
No. The bonus remains in CPF and enhances future CPF LIFE payouts.
3. What happens if my income changes during the year
CPF Board calculates the average income for the full year. As long as it stays within S$500 to S$6,000, you remain eligible.
4. Will I qualify if I stop working partway through the year
Yes, if your overall average income still stays within the required range.
5. How can I check my eligibility
You can check your status on platforms such as the LifeSG app or the official benefits website.
Final Take
The Majulah Earn and Save Bonus 2026 stands out as a reliable, long-term retirement booster for older Singaporeans who continue working. Since the money grows at attractive interest rates, the bonus steadily strengthens future retirement payouts. With automatic processing, clear income tiers, and inclusive eligibility rules, the ESB offers practical support that rewards consistent work and enhances overall financial security.
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