If you’re nearing 55 in Singapore, CPF suddenly feels very real. Questions pop up fast. How much can I withdraw? Should I take it now or wait? What changed in 2025? The CPF withdrawal rules 2025 are designed to give flexibility—but only if you understand how the pieces fit together.
I’ve seen many people rush withdrawals without thinking about the long-term impact. Let’s slow this down and look at what actually matters.
The Two CPF Ages That Matter Most
CPF still works around two key ages, and this hasn’t changed in 2025.
- Age 55: You get partial access to your savings
- Age 65: Monthly retirement payouts begin
What’s important is this: the payout age stays at 65, even though Singapore’s statutory retirement age is rising. That separation gives members breathing room to manage short-term needs without sacrificing future income.
What Happens When You Turn 55
On your 55th birthday, something automatic happens. Your Ordinary Account (OA) and Special Account (SA) savings are transferred into a Retirement Account (RA), up to the required retirement sum.
A big 2025 update is that the Special Account is closed for members aged 55 and above. Any remaining SA funds are redirected into the RA or OA. The idea is simple: less complexity, more focus on retirement income.
Here’s how the retirement sums look in 2025:
- Basic Retirement Sum (BRS): S$102,900 – supports modest payouts
- Full Retirement Sum (FRS): S$205,800 – standard retirement income
- Enhanced Retirement Sum (ERS): S$411,600 – higher payouts for those who can top up
Any amount above what’s needed for your chosen sum becomes withdrawable.
How Much Can You Withdraw at 55?
At minimum, CPF allows a S$5,000 withdrawal at age 55. If you’ve already met the required retirement sum, you can take out more.
Own a property? You may be able to pledge it, which reduces how much cash you must keep in CPF. That often frees up more money for withdrawal—but remember, it also lowers future monthly payouts.
Early withdrawals are allowed only in special cases, such as medical grounds or permanent departure from Singapore. Online withdrawals also have daily limits for security reasons.
Why Many People Choose Not to Withdraw Everything
Here’s the thing many overlook. Money left in your Retirement Account earns higher interest than most low-risk alternatives. That balance later funds CPF LIFE, which provides monthly payouts for life starting at 65.
You can even defer payouts up to age 70. Doing so increases your monthly income significantly. For people with other savings, waiting can be a smart move.
How to Plan Smarter in 2025
Use the CPF online dashboard. It shows exactly what you can withdraw and lets you simulate different scenarios. With longer life expectancy, CPF’s rules are clearly designed to prevent people from outliving their savings.
If you’re unsure, rely on official CPF guidance. The rules may feel restrictive at times, but they exist to protect future you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I withdraw all my CPF savings at 55?
No. You can only withdraw amounts above the required retirement sum. CPF ensures a portion remains set aside to provide monthly income from age 65.
What does the closure of the Special Account mean?
For members aged 55 and above, the SA no longer exists. Funds are transferred to the Retirement Account or OA, simplifying CPF management and strengthening retirement payouts.
Is it better to withdraw early or wait?
It depends on your needs. Withdrawing early helps with immediate expenses, but leaving funds in CPF earns higher interest and increases lifelong payouts later.