As we step into 2025, Singapore taxpayers are looking for ways to maximize their tax savings while staying compliant with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) regulations. Whether you are an employee, self-employed, or a business owner, understanding available tax reliefs, rebates, and deductions can significantly lower your taxable income and put more money back in your pocket.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the 2025 tax reliefs and rebates in Singapore, including eligibility criteria, actionable steps, and expert insights to help you maximize your tax savings effectively. By making informed financial decisions, you can reduce your taxable income while planning for your future retirement and financial stability.
Singapore Tax Hacks 2025:
Tax Relief/Rebate | Amount | Eligibility |
---|---|---|
Earned Income Relief | Up to SGD 8,000 | Individuals with earned income |
CPF Top-Up Relief | Up to SGD 16,000 | Voluntary top-ups to CPF accounts |
Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS) Relief | Up to SGD 35,700 | Singaporeans, PRs & Foreigners |
Course Fees Relief | Up to SGD 5,500 | Skills-related training |
Parent/Handicapped Parent Relief | Up to SGD 14,000 | Supporting parents |
NSman Relief | Up to SGD 3,000 | National Servicemen |
Donation Tax Deductions | 250% of donation amount | Donations to IPCs |
Personal Income Tax Relief Cap | SGD 80,000 | Total cap for all reliefs |
Understanding and utilizing Singapore’s 2025 tax reliefs and rebates can significantly reduce your taxable income, allowing you to save more for retirement, invest in skills upgrading, and support your family financially. By carefully planning your tax relief strategies, you can take full advantage of deductions available under CPF contributions, SRS investments, and educational incentives. Furthermore, optimizing your financial planning allows you to allocate more resources toward long-term savings, home ownership, and other essential expenses. Beyond personal gains, utilizing tax reliefs effectively ensures that you are making the most of government incentives while fostering responsible financial habits. Taking action today can lead to substantial savings over time, securing both short-term financial benefits and long-term financial stability.
Understanding Singapore’s Tax System
Singapore follows a progressive tax system, meaning the higher your income, the more tax you pay. The individual income tax rates range from 0% to 22%, with the highest rate applicable to incomes exceeding SGD 320,000. However, various tax reliefs and rebates help reduce the amount of taxable income significantly.
It is essential to understand how tax reliefs and deductions work so that you can optimize your finances effectively. By strategically utilizing available reliefs, you can significantly lower your tax obligations while ensuring financial security for yourself and your loved ones.
1. Earned Income Relief (EIR)
If you have an earned income, you are automatically eligible for this relief. The relief amount depends on your age:
- Below 55 years: SGD 1,000
- 55 to 59 years: SGD 6,000
- 60 years and above: SGD 8,000
Tip: This relief is automatically applied, so there is no need to file a separate claim. If you are employed, IRAS will consider this relief when assessing your tax obligations.
2. Central Provident Fund (CPF) Top-Up Relief
Making voluntary contributions to your CPF account or your family members’ accounts (spouse, parents, or siblings) can help lower your tax bill while securing your retirement savings.
- Self top-ups: Up to SGD 8,000
- Top-ups to family members: Additional SGD 8,000
Ensure top-ups are made before 31 December 2024 to qualify for relief in YA 2025. CPF contributions not only lower your taxable income but also help build financial security for your future.
3. Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS) Contributions
SRS is a voluntary retirement savings scheme that allows tax savings while helping you build a retirement nest egg. Unlike CPF, SRS contributions offer greater flexibility in investments while providing tax relief.
- Singapore Citizens & PRs: Max contribution SGD 15,300
- Foreigners: Max contribution SGD 35,700
Why contribute? SRS contributions reduce your taxable income while allowing your investments to grow tax-free until withdrawal. You can invest your SRS funds in stocks, bonds, or insurance plans.
4. Course Fees Relief
If you have taken a skills upgrading course in 2024, you may qualify for tax relief of up to SGD 5,500.
Key Requirement: The course must be related to your current or future profession and should not be employer-sponsored. It is an excellent way to encourage continuous learning and career progression.
5. Parent and Handicapped Parent Relief
If you are supporting your parents, grandparents, or in-laws, you can claim relief of:
- SGD 9,000 (if they live with you)
- SGD 5,500 (if they do not live with you)
- Handicapped Parent Relief: Up to SGD 14,000
Ensure your dependent earns below SGD 4,000 per year (unless handicapped) to qualify.
6. National Service (NSman) Relief
NSmen, their wives, and parents can enjoy tax relief as follows:
- Active NSmen: SGD 3,000
- Inactive NSmen: SGD 1,500
- NSman Wife/Parent Relief: SGD 750
7. Charitable Donations – 250% Tax Deduction
Singapore encourages charitable donations by offering 250% tax deductions for donations made to Institutions of Public Character (IPCs).
Deadline: Donate before 31 December 2024 for relief in YA 2025. Donations must be made to IPC-approved organizations to qualify.
8. Personal Income Tax Relief Cap
The maximum total personal tax reliefs an individual can claim is SGD 80,000 per Year of Assessment. If your total reliefs exceed this, they will be capped.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the income tax filing deadline for YA 2025?
The deadline is 15 April 2025 for paper filing and 18 April 2025 for e-filing via IRAS.
2. How can I check my eligible tax reliefs?
You can check your eligibility for tax reliefs via myTax Portal on the IRAS website.
3. What happens if I forget to file my taxes?
Late filing results in penalties, and continued non-compliance may lead to prosecution.
4. Can foreigners claim tax relief in Singapore?
Foreigners can claim certain tax reliefs such as SRS contributions and course fee relief if they meet the criteria.