Singapore has always been proactive in easing the financial burden on its citizens, especially when it comes to daily essentials like transportation. With rising costs of living, public transport fares can sometimes take a significant chunk out of a household’s budget. Recognizing this, the Singapore government has rolled out the $60 Public Transport Voucher (PTV) Scheme for 2025.
This initiative aims to make commuting more affordable for lower-income families while encouraging the use of public transport. If you’re wondering whether you qualify for this support and how to claim it, here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.
Table of Contents
What is the $60 Public Transport Voucher Scheme?
The Public Transport Voucher (PTV) Scheme is part of the Singapore government’s ongoing efforts to support households with their commuting costs. Each eligible household receives a voucher worth S$60, which can be used to offset the cost of public transport fares.
This scheme is particularly beneficial for those who rely heavily on buses and trains for work, school, and daily errands. Over the years, the scheme has helped thousands of households manage their travel expenses more effectively.
Key Benefits of the PTV Scheme
- Reduced commuting costs: Offset part of your monthly transport expenses.
- Encourages public transport use: Promotes eco-friendly commuting.
- Simple redemption process: Vouchers can be used via SimplyGo App and other convenient channels.
Who is Eligible for the 2025 PTV Scheme?
Eligibility for the PTV Scheme is based on household income, residency status, and family composition. Here’s a breakdown:
Income Criteria
To qualify:
- Your household’s monthly income per person should not exceed S$1,800. This is an increase from the previous threshold of S$1,600, allowing more households to benefit.
- Household income is calculated by dividing the total gross monthly household income by the number of members living together.
Residency Requirements
- At least one member of the household must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (PR).
Household Composition
- Income assessment includes all members living together in the same household.
- Families with students, elderly members, or those with special needs often benefit the most.
Quick Eligibility Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Income per person | ≤ S$1,800/month |
| Residency | At least 1 Singapore Citizen or PR |
| Household | All members living together |
If you meet these requirements, you’re likely eligible to apply.
How to Apply for the 2025 PTV Scheme
Applying for the PTV is straightforward. The process has two main stages:
Automatic Distribution
- December 2024: About 270,000 households that received vouchers in 2023 and still met the eligibility criteria were automatically notified.
- No action is required if you are part of this group.
Open Applications
- From January 14, 2025, to October 31, 2025, eligible households that didn’t receive Stage 1 vouchers can apply.
- Online: Submit applications at go.gov.sg/ptv.
- In-person: Visit your nearest Community Centre/Club (CC) for support.
Additional Notes
- Appeals: If you missed the income criteria or faced issues during application, you can submit an appeal online or in person.
- Assistance: Call the hotline 1800-2783500 for help.
How to Redeem Your PTV
Once you receive the voucher, you have several convenient ways to use it:
- SimplyGo App – Top up your e-wallet and pay for rides.
- SimplyGo Kiosks – Available at MRT stations.
- Top-Up Kiosks & Assisted Service Kiosks – Found at key locations for on-the-spot redemption.
- SimplyGo Ticket Offices – Staff-assisted top-up available.
Validity: The vouchers are valid until March 31, 2026, giving users ample time to use them.
Comparison of Redemption Channels
| Channel | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| SimplyGo App | Convenient, digital, fast | Requires smartphone and app setup |
| Kiosks | Easy, widely available | Queues possible during peak hours |
| Ticket Offices | Staff-assisted | Limited locations, office hours only |
Real-World Impact
Consider the case of a family of four with a monthly household income of S$6,800 (S$1,700 per person). Without the PTV, their monthly commute expenses could eat up a substantial portion of their budget. With a S$60 voucher, they save nearly 5% of their transport costs, which can be redirected to groceries, utilities, or savings.
The scheme also encourages the use of public transport, reducing reliance on private vehicles and contributing to Singapore’s sustainability goals.
FAQ,s
Q1: Can I apply if I just became a PR or citizen in 2025?
- A: Yes, as long as your household meets the income and residency criteria, you are eligible to apply during the open application period.
Q2: Can the voucher be used on any mode of public transport?
- A: The PTV can be used on MRT, LRT, and public bus services that support SimplyGo payment methods.
Q3: What happens if I miss the application period?
- A: You may submit an appeal or wait for the next PTV exercise. It’s best to apply as early as possible.
Q4: Can the voucher be transferred to another person?
- A: No, the PTV is non-transferable and is linked to your household.
Q5: How do I check if my application was successful?
- A: You will receive a notification through your registered contact details or can check online via the official portal.
Conclusion
The Singapore $60 Public Transport Voucher Scheme for 2025 is a timely initiative to ease commuting costs for eligible households. By targeting lower-income families, it not only helps save money but also promotes the use of public transport, aligning with Singapore’s sustainability and urban mobility goals. With simple application and multiple redemption channels, the scheme ensures that support is accessible and practical. If your household meets the eligibility criteria, applying early is the best way to benefit from this government-backed support and make your daily commute more affordable.