In Parliament today (March 7), Senior Minister of State for Manpower Koh Poh Koon provided an update on the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) scheme, which aims to assist retrenched workers with financial support to aid their job search efforts. Learn more about the eligibility criteria and how the scheme works.
The SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) scheme, announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at the National Day Rally last year, has been introduced to provide financial support for retrenched workers engaging in job search activities. The scheme offers payouts of up to S$6,000 over six months to lower- and middle-income workers. With over S$200 million allocated by the government for the scheme, it aims to help individuals navigate their way back into employment.
How Does the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) Scheme Work?
According to Dr Koh, the JS scheme offers a structured approach to guide jobseekers through the process of seeking employment. To qualify for payouts under the scheme, jobseekers must engage in various activities such as updating their resumes online, attending career fairs, using CareersFinder on the MyCareersFuture portal, and participating in career coaching sessions. Additionally, applicants must read employment-related articles, attend workshops, submit job applications, and attend training courses to continue receiving payouts for the following months.
Who is Eligible for the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support (JS) Scheme?
Individuals seeking to apply for the JS scheme must meet specific criteria set by Workforce Singapore (WSG). Eligible candidates include Singapore Citizens aged 21 and above, Permanent Residents aged 21 and above, earning an average monthly income of S$5,000 or less in the past 12 months, and were previously employed in Singapore for at least six months within the last year. Applicants must have become unemployed for involuntary reasons and reside in properties with an annual value of S$31,000 or less in Singapore. Those who have not received payouts from the scheme in the last three years are also eligible.
Approximately 60,000 people are expected to qualify for the JS scheme annually, covering more than 60% of involuntarily unemployed individuals. Detailed information on the application process will be released in mid-April 2025 by Workforce Singapore (WSG).
In addition to the JS scheme, there are other support programs available to individuals facing financial difficulties and undergoing training. By combining the JS scheme with the SkillsFuture Level-up Programme, applicants may receive up to S$21,000 in total, including training allowances and scheme payouts. Moreover, those in need of additional assistance can seek social support from ComCare.
Stay informed about Singapore affairs by reading more articles on similar topics. For more details on the JS scheme and how to apply, keep an eye out for updates from Workforce Singapore (WSG) launching in mid-April 2025.
Feature Image Credit: August Phunitiphat/ Shutterstock
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