The Singapore government has introduced the $60 Public Transport Voucher (PTV) for 2025 to help families manage the rising cost of commuting. With public transport being the main way most residents travel to work, school, and essential services, this scheme makes sure that lower-income households are not left behind when fares increase. The voucher is part of a wider effort to keep transport affordable while balancing the realities of inflation and higher operating costs. By offering this direct financial help, the government is easing the daily burden for families that rely heavily on buses and MRT rides.
How the Voucher Helps
The main purpose of the PTV is to reduce the financial strain of transport expenses. A $60 voucher may seem small, but it goes a long way for households that are already managing tight budgets. In 2024, around 270,000 households received this support, allowing them to keep up with essential travel without cutting back on other basic needs. The programme also connects residents more closely with community organisations. Citizens’ Consultative Committees (CCCs) help review applications and appeals, ensuring that those who are struggling but may not meet the exact income criteria can still be considered for support.
Who Can Apply for the 2025 Voucher
To qualify for the voucher in 2025, households must have a monthly income of not more than $1,800 per person. This calculation is made by dividing the total household income by the number of people living in the same home. Income from salaries, self-employment, bonuses, overtime, and allowances is all included in this calculation. Another key requirement is that at least one member of the household must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident. Families who earn slightly more than the set income limit but are still facing real financial difficulties, such as job loss or medical expenses, can appeal to their local CCC for special consideration.
How the Voucher Will Be Given Out
The distribution of the voucher is carried out in two stages. The first stage took place in December 2024 and automatically covered households that had already qualified in 2023 and remained eligible. These families did not need to reapply and were notified through letters sent either by post or digitally. The second stage runs from 14 January to 31 October 2025. During this period, households that were not included in the first stage can submit an application. Applications can be made online through the official portal at go.gov.sg/ptv or in person at nearby Community Centres and Clubs. This stage also allows families to file appeals if they need extra help.
Redeeming and Using the Voucher
Each eligible household will receive a voucher worth $60. The voucher is issued in $10 parts, which makes it easy to manage and spread out. Families can choose to load the value onto one or more stored value cards, allowing all members of the household to benefit. The voucher can be used for both MRT and bus rides. Redemption can be done at TransitLink Ticket Offices, Top-Up Kiosks, and Assisted Service Kiosks. This flexible system ensures that households can use the support in a way that suits their daily travel needs.
What to Do If You Missed the First Stage
Some households may not have received their voucher during the first stage due to changes in address, duplicate household records, or updated income data. If that happens, they can apply during the second stage. Updating personal details at the nearest Community Centre and submitting the application again will make sure they are considered. Once the application is approved, families will receive an official letter within four to six weeks. This letter serves as the voucher and must be presented when redeeming it.
Why This Scheme Matters for Families
The Public Transport Voucher scheme plays an important role in keeping Singapore’s public transport system fair and inclusive. By giving timely support, it helps families continue their daily routines without added stress from higher fares. For many, this assistance is not just about money it is about maintaining stability and ensuring no one is left out of essential travel.