Starting from 1 July 2026, Singapore will increase the official retirement age from 63 to 64 and the re-employment age from 68 to 69 year by year, step by step.
Oldest workers would have job security and more years to earn money, and the companies would be able to keep skilled workers which were also the reasons for the change, Singaporeans are living longer, healthier and many want (or need) to work until retirement age. This was the main reason for the change, Singaporeans are living longer, healthier and many want (or need) to work until retirement age. Besides, companies would be able to retain skilled workers which was also one of the main reasons for the change.
What “Retirement Age” Really Means
The retirement age means the time when the employee can be required to leave the job merely because he or she has reached that age. The retirement age after July 2026 becomes 64 years. Until that time, any employee can be asked to leave only because of poor performance or health issues.
Re-Employment – The Next Safety Net
After an employee becomes 60 years old, he/she can be offered re-employment not only for this three year period but also up to 69 years which is the new limit. An employee can work fewer hours or in a different capacity but still keep his/her income and CPF contributions coming.
Why Singapore Is Raising the Ages Now
People in the past were getting fit and active only for a short time compared to the current situation. Many people over 60 who are still active would rather work for financial reasons or personal satisfaction. At the same time, fewer young people are coming into the job market. Retaining older employees helps plug this gap.
Benefits for Workers Over 60
You will get paid for three more years, and your CPF savings will continue. Besides that, you will stay socially connected. A longer work life generally means a considerable increase in monthly CPF LIFE payouts at the time of retirement.
Support Available for Employers
The government grants and credits are financial aids that help companies in hiring or keeping older employees. Among others, the Senior Employment Credit and Part-Time Re-employment Grant (maximum amount is $125,000) are such examples.
Who Qualifies for Re-Employment?
The employee must be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, must be physically fit, and must have done a satisfactory job. If he/she joined after turning 55, then a minimum of two years of service is required to qualify.
Timeline of the Age Increases
The age limits for retirement and re-employment will be increased as follows:
| Period | Retirement Age | Re-Employment Age |
|---|---|---|
| Until 30 June 2026 | 63 | 68 |
| From 1 July 2026 | 64 | 69 |
| By 2030 | 65 | 70 |
Good News: CPF Payout Age Stays 65
The age for starting CPF withdrawals or receiving CPF LIFE monthly payouts will continue to be 65. The worker can keep receiving CPF income and working at the same time if desired.
The extension of the retirement age to 64 years and of the re-employment age to 69 years per step from July 2026 lasts longer and more secured working lives for aging citizens and is also beneficial for the economy.
For more information about your situation regarding this change, visit the Ministry of Manpower website (mom.gov.sg) or consult your employer/HR team today. Early planning turns this change into an advantage!
