Implication for Design of Social Transfer Schemes with Change in Household Income Reporting to Include Non-employment Data

Parliamentary Question by Ms Elysa Chen:

To ask the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether and how the shift to reporting household market income, including non-employment income and households with no employed persons, will affect the design and targeting of major social transfers such as ComCare, Silver Support, Workfare and the Assurance Package; and (b) whether any scheme parameters will be reviewed.

Parliamentary Reply by Senior Minister of State for Finance, Mr Jeffrey Siow:

Most government schemes rely on employment income for means-testing. There are no immediate plans to change this. That said, where appropriate, we already take into account other relevant indicators. For example, ComCare adopts a holistic assessment of an applicant’s financial circumstances, including all sources of income. This ensures that assistance is directed towards those who genuinely require support to meet their basic needs.

The Government will continue to review the parameters of our social support schemes to ensure that they remain effective in supporting their intended beneficiaries.