If you’re a parent in Singapore, you probably feel the rising cost of raising a child more than anyone else. School fees, groceries, transport, learning materials — it all adds up fast. So when news breaks about financial support for families, it’s not just “helpful”… it’s a huge relief.
That’s why the July rollout of Child LifeSG credits has been one of the most talked-about updates this year. Many parents have been asking the same questions: Who gets the $500? When will it be credited? Can it be used for everyday expenses? If that sounds like you, you’re definitely not alone.
What exactly are Child LifeSG Credits?
Child LifeSG credits (CLC) are part of the Government’s 2025 household support measures designed to ease child-raising costs. Every eligible Singaporean child aged 12 and below will receive $500, credited automatically in July 2025.
Honestly, the best part for most families is how practical this support is. You don’t need to apply. There’s no complicated paperwork. And the credits can be used for daily necessities — not just child-specific purchases.
Who will receive the $500 Child LifeSG Credits in July?
Here’s the breakdown:
| Age / Birth Year | Type of Support | Expected Disbursement |
|---|---|---|
| Children aged 12 and below (born 2013–2024) | Child LifeSG Credits | Week of 7 July 2025 |
| Children born in 2025 | Child LifeSG Credits | April 2026 |
| Students aged 13–20 | $500 Edusave or PSEA Top-Up | July 2025 |
So yes — families with younger and older children will receive support, just through different channels.
In total, around 450,000 children will receive CLC, and 300,000 students will receive the Edusave or PSEA top-up.
How do parents receive the Child LifeSG Credits?
This is where things get convenient.
The credits will appear in the LifeSG app, inside a digital wallet linked to your Child Development Account (CDA) trustee.
What you need to do:
- Make sure you have the LifeSG app installed
- Ensure your mobile number is updated — because you’ll get an SMS once the credits are in
That’s it. No forms. No booking slots. No calling hotlines.
What can the Child LifeSG Credits be used for?
Think of CLC as support for real-life family needs. Parents can use the credits for:
- Groceries
- Public transport
- Utilities
- Pharmacy items
- Selected household purchases
It feels like the system was designed with busy parents in mind — the kind who are running between work, childcare and everything in between.
What about families with teens or young adults?
If you have children between 13 and 20 years old, the support will come in the form of a $500 top-up to Edusave or PSEA. This is separate from the annual Government contribution and can be used for education-related expenses such as:
- School fees
- Learning materials
- Tuition
- Enrichment courses
- Polytechnic and university expenses
Parents will also get an SMS once the funds have been disbursed.
Why this support matters more than ever
Anyone raising kids today knows raising a family is rewarding — but far from cheap. If you’ve ever looked at your bills and wondered how fast kids seem to grow along with expenses, you’re not imagining it.
This payout doesn’t solve everything, but it takes real pressure off families. And sometimes, $500 isn’t just a number — it means groceries covered for a month, transport sorted for weeks, or education costs you don’t have to worry about for a while.
If support brings peace of mind, that matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to apply for the Child LifeSG Credits?
No application is needed. Credits will automatically be disbursed to eligible children through the LifeSG app. Parents will receive an SMS once the payout is completed.
2. Can I withdraw the credits as cash?
No, the credits are not withdrawable as cash. They can only be used for approved everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, transport and household essentials.
3. My child is 13 or older — will they receive the $500 too?
Yes, but not through LifeSG credits. Students aged 13–20 will receive a $500 Edusave or PSEA top-up in July to support education-related expenses.