What Childcare Subsidies Am I Entitled to in Singapore?
A complete breakdown of every government childcare subsidy, who qualifies, and how to apply through your centre.
Basic Childcare Subsidy
The Basic Subsidy is available to all families with a Singapore Citizen child enrolled at an ECDA-licensed childcare centre, where the mother is working, studying full-time, or on medical grounds. It does not depend on income.
| Programme Type | Basic Subsidy (SC Child) | Basic Subsidy (PR Child) |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Day Infant Care | Up to S$710/mo | Up to S$355/mo |
| Full-Day Childcare (18mo to 6yr) | Up to S$300/mo | Up to S$150/mo |
| Half-Day Childcare | Up to S$150/mo | Up to S$75/mo |
If the mother is not working or studying, the basic subsidy does not apply, but the father may still qualify in certain circumstances. Check with ECDA or your childcare centre directly.
Additional Childcare Subsidy (Income-Tested)
Families with lower household incomes receive an Additional Subsidy on top of the Basic Subsidy. This is assessed based on gross monthly household income. Both parents must be working or studying for eligibility.
| Gross Monthly Household Income | Additional Subsidy (Infant Care) | Additional Subsidy (Childcare) |
|---|---|---|
| S$3,000 and below | Up to S$710/mo | Up to S$467/mo |
| S$3,001 to S$4,500 | Up to S$570/mo | Up to S$374/mo |
| S$4,501 to S$6,000 | Up to S$380/mo | Up to S$247/mo |
| S$6,001 to S$7,500 | Up to S$190/mo | Up to S$120/mo |
| Above S$7,500 | No additional subsidy | No additional subsidy |
The additional subsidy cannot exceed the gross fee charged by the centre. Families who receive maximum subsidy in both tiers effectively pay very little for infant care.
KiFAS: Kindergarten Financial Assistance Scheme
KiFAS covers K1 and K2 fees for children attending MOE Kindergartens or ECDA-licensed anchor operator kindergartens. It is aimed at lower-income families and covers nearly all fees for the most eligible households.
| Gross Monthly Household Income Per Capita | KiFAS Coverage |
|---|---|
| S$625 and below | 99% of fees covered |
| S$626 to S$1,250 | Tiered subsidy (partial) |
| Above S$3,000/mo total household income | Not eligible |
KiFAS is separate from childcare subsidies and applies specifically to the kindergarten (N1 to K2) years. It does not cover optional enrichment add-ons or meal fees beyond the standard programme.
How to Apply for Childcare Subsidies
You do not apply to ECDA directly. All subsidy applications are handled through your chosen childcare centre. The process is straightforward:
- Enrol your child at an ECDA-licensed childcare centre (AO or PO for maximum subsidy eligibility)
- Complete the subsidy application form provided by the centre
- Submit income documents (latest payslips, or Notice of Assessment if self-employed)
- The centre submits your application to ECDA on your behalf
- Subsidy approval is notified within 2 to 4 weeks and is applied directly to your monthly fee invoice
Tip: Subsidy income assessments are reviewed periodically. If your household income changes significantly, inform your centre so your subsidy tier can be updated. You do not lose the subsidy if income temporarily rises due to bonuses.
| Subsidy Type | Max Amount | Eligibility | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Subsidy (Infant Care) | S$710/mo | SC child, working mother | Via centre |
| Basic Subsidy (Childcare) | S$300/mo | SC child, working mother | Via centre |
| Additional Subsidy | Varies by income | SC child, income below S$7,500/mo | Via centre |
| KiFAS | Up to 99% of fees | K1/K2, income below S$3,000/mo | Via kindergarten |
Medical disclaimer: this information is for general guidance only. Subsidy amounts and eligibility rules are set by ECDA and MSF and are subject to government review. Verify current figures at ecda.gov.sg.