Raising a child in Singapore is a blessing — but let’s be honest, it’s not cheap. From baby wipes and milk powder to tuition classes and healthcare, the bills never stop coming. So when the government announced S$500 LifeSG credits per eligible child, many parents breathed a sigh of relief.
If you’re wondering how to claim these credits, use them wisely, or even cash them out (yes, there’s a smart workaround), here’s everything you need to know.
What Are LifeSG Credits and Why They Matter
The LifeSG Credits are part of Singapore’s 2025 Family Support Package — a government effort to ease the rising costs of raising children. Each eligible child receives S$500, credited directly into the parent’s LifeSG app.
The credits started rolling out in July 2025, and families have until July 2026 to use them. They’re non-transferable, which means you can’t move them to another account or cash them out directly.
Still, they’re a flexible way to pay for everyday essentials — groceries, school items, even enrichment classes — and a small but meaningful boost to your family’s monthly budget.
Who Qualifies for the S$500 LifeSG Credits
To receive the credits, your child must:
- Be a Singapore Citizen
- Be 12 years old or younger as of 1 July 2025
- Have an active Child Development Account (CDA)
The credits are automatically issued to the trustee of the CDA, usually the parent who opened the account. So if you don’t see the funds in your LifeSG app, check whether your spouse is listed as the trustee.
👉 Example: If you’ve got three kids aged 10, 6, and 3, you’ll receive a total of S$1,500 in credits.
What About Babies Born in 2026?
Don’t worry — they’re included too. Parents of babies born in 2026 will get their LifeSG credits by April 2026, once the CDA is opened and verified.
New parents should make sure to:
- Download the LifeSG app (you’ll need it to register your child’s birth)
- Open a CDA via POSB, OCBC, or UOB
- Update your Singpass and bank details for smooth disbursement
How to Access and Use Your LifeSG Credits
It’s refreshingly simple:
- Open the LifeSG app on your phone.
- Log in with Singpass.
- You’ll see the credit balance on the home screen or under your child’s profile.
You can use these credits at participating merchants or through services linked to your LifeSG wallet.
💡 Smart Hack: Some parents use their credits to buy household essentials from merchants that offer refunds or gift vouchers — effectively turning the credits into usable cash. Just be sure to stick with legitimate platforms to avoid scams.
Why the LifeSG App Is a Must-Have for Parents
Beyond the credits, the LifeSG app is a true parenting companion. You can:
- Track immunisations and medical appointments
- Register for preschools
- Check Baby Bonus and CDA balances
- Book ActiveSG sports facilities
It’s a one-stop platform for managing everything your child needs — safely and conveniently.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I withdraw my LifeSG credits as cash?
No, you can’t transfer the credits directly to your bank account. However, you can use them at selected merchants or for everyday family expenses.
2. How long are the credits valid?
They must be used by July 2026. Any unused balance after that date will expire automatically.
3. What if my spouse is the CDA trustee?
Only the registered trustee will see the credits in their LifeSG app. If you don’t find the funds, ask your spouse or co-parent to log in and check.
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