In 2025, the Singapore government offers eligible lower-income households a one-time S$60 Public Transport Voucher (PTV) to help offset recent fare increases. Launched under the 2024 PTV exercise, the voucher supports commuting costs for those most affected by rising MRT and bus fares. Qualified households can apply during the second phase, from mid-January to end October 2025, if they didn’t receive a voucher earlier. Redemption is simple—via the SimplyGo app, kiosks, ticket offices, or community centres—and the voucher remains valid until March 2026. This article explains eligibility, claim steps, usage, and key tips.
What Is the Public Transport Voucher?
Purpose and Background
The Public Transport Voucher is a government initiative designed to ease the impact of fare hikes introduced at the end of 2024. With adult fares rising by around 10 cents per trip and concession fares by 4 cents, the S$60 voucher helps reduce additional daily transport expenses for vulnerable households.
How the Voucher Works
Each eligible household can receive one voucher worth S$60. This travel credit may be used to top up fare cards up to March 2026. It is distributed on a per-household basis and allows use by any household member, enabling flexibility in usage.
Who Qualifies for the Voucher?
Income and Citizenship Rules
Households with at least one Singapore citizen and a per-person monthly income of no more than S$1,800 are eligible. This expanded threshold includes many more families compared to previous years.
Applicability of Eligibility
Only households that did not receive a voucher during the first phase in December 2024 need to apply during the second phase. Households that received vouchers earlier are not eligible to reapply.
How to Claim Your Voucher
Application Period and Steps
Eligible households that missed the first phase may apply between 14 January and 31 October 2025. Applications can be submitted:
- Online via the official PTV portal using Singpass login
- In person at any Community Centre or Club
- Appeals for missed eligibility can also be made during the same period
Submission Details
Applicants must confirm household income per person and acknowledge citizenship. Once verified, households receive a notification letter (digital or physical) within four to six weeks confirming voucher eligibility.
Redeeming the Voucher
Redemption Channels
Once approved, households can redeem the S$60 voucher at:
- SimplyGo mobile app
- SimplyGo ticket kiosks
- MRT/bus ticket offices
- Community Centre assisted kiosks
Use and Validity
Vouchers are redeemed in S$10 increments and can be loaded onto multiple travel cards. They remain valid until 31 March 2026, giving users ample time to use the credit.
Impact on Daily Commuting
Financial Relief from Fare Increases
With adult MRT and bus fares rising by 10 cents, the S$60 voucher supports about 600 commuter trips, or roughly 50 round trips. This reduces the financial strain on household budgets significantly.
Benefit for Multiple Users
Since the voucher credit can be shared across members, larger households or shared commuting schedules can maximize the benefit collectively.
Additional Support Measures
Other Travel Subsidies
This PTV benefit complements other relief schemes like Utility bill rebates, SG60 vouchers, and CDC assistance, all aiming to ease the overall cost of living.
Senior and Low-Income Support
Separate schemes—including seniors’ bonuses, U-Save rebates, and GST vouchers—further cushion households depending on age group and income profile.
What to Do If You Missed Phase One
If you did not receive a voucher in December 2024, you can apply during the second phase until 31 October 2025. If your household records changed (e.g. address or income), update your details at the Community Centre before applying. Appeals may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Tips for Applicants
Preparation Checklist
Ensure you have your Singpass enabled and correct household income data. Verify citizenship details and residency. Visit the PTV portal or local CC early to avoid delays.
Stay Alert for Notifications
Watch for letters or SMS confirming your voucher eligibility. Keep your NRIC-linked PayNow or GovCash setup active to avoid delays in disbursement or redemption.
Conclusion
The 2025 Public Transport Voucher Exercise offers eligible low-income households a useful S$60 credit to help offset fare hikes. With simple application steps, flexible redemption methods, and extended validity, it aims to ease commuting burdens for many. If you meet the criteria and did not receive the voucher in phase one, applying before the October deadline ensures you benefit from this support.
Frequently Asked Question
Can households receive more than one voucher?
No, each eligible household will receive only one voucher worth S$60 under the exercise.
Can any household member use the voucher?
Yes, credit can be shared and redeemed across travel cards belonging to different household members.
What if my household status changed after the first phase?
Changes in address or income should be updated at your Community Centre before applying for the second phase. Appeals may be approved if rightful eligibility is verified.