The Central Provident Fund (CPF) continues to be the backbone of Singapore’s retirement and social security system. Its primary purpose is to ensure that citizens have enough savings for retirement, housing, and healthcare. However, the scheme also recognizes that life can be unpredictable, and therefore allows members to withdraw savings early under specific circumstances. These provisions include medical grounds such as reduced life expectancy or severe health conditions, as well as partial withdrawals that begin from age 55.
Why Early Withdrawals Are Allowed
The CPF framework is carefully designed to strike a balance between protecting long-term savings and addressing short-term needs. For example, members who face serious medical challenges can tap into their CPF funds earlier, while those entering retirement age have structured withdrawal options. According to official CPF data, about four in five Singaporeans aged 55 and above can set aside at least the Basic Retirement Sum (BRS), which means they can withdraw part of their savings while still securing lifelong monthly payouts under CPF LIFE.
Medical Grounds for Early Withdrawal
Members diagnosed with severe illnesses, reduced life expectancy, or permanent incapacity are eligible to apply for early withdrawals. These funds can be used to meet urgent medical expenses, daily living costs, or other financial responsibilities. To qualify, members must be assessed by accredited doctors from public hospitals, polyclinics, or specialist medical institutions. The medical assessment will determine if the member has a shortened life expectancy, is permanently unfit for work, or has lost mental capacity as defined under the Mental Capacity Act.
Conditions and Documentation Required
For members applying on medical grounds, documentation plays a vital role. A Medical Assessment Report (MAR) must be completed by the attending doctor and sent directly to the CPF Board. In cases of mental incapacity, legal representatives such as donees or court-appointed deputies are required to submit additional documents, including a certified Court Order or Lasting Power of Attorney. Withdrawals cannot include MediSave balances or funds from government top-up schemes like the Matched Retirement Savings Scheme.
Withdrawal Rules at Age 55
From the age of 55, CPF members gain broader withdrawal rights. At this stage, a Retirement Account (RA) is created, and savings from the Ordinary Account (OA) and Special Account (SA) are transferred into it. Members are allowed to withdraw at least $5,000 regardless of their total balance. Beyond this, withdrawals are permitted for any amount above the Full Retirement Sum (FRS). For those who own property with a remaining lease of at least 95 years, the requirement is lowered to the Basic Retirement Sum (BRS), allowing them to withdraw more in cash.
Additional Flexibility at Age 65
To give retirees greater control over their finances, CPF allows an extra withdrawal from age 65. Members born in 1958 or later may withdraw up to 20% of their Retirement Account savings at this stage. This flexibility is intended to help cover additional expenses in the early years of retirement while still ensuring long-term financial stability through CPF LIFE monthly payouts.
How to Apply for CPF Withdrawals
Applications for both medical and age-based withdrawals are processed online through CPF e-services using Singpass. Once approved, funds are credited directly to the member’s registered bank account. For overseas members, documents must be certified true by officials at Singapore Overseas Missions to ensure smooth processing.
Support for Members
CPF provides several support channels for those who need help understanding the rules or completing applications. Members can call the CPF hotline at 1800-227-1188, make appointments at service centres, or access detailed guides on the CPF website. For seniors or individuals less comfortable with online systems, in-person assistance at service centres ensures that the process remains accessible to all.
Striking the Right Balance
The CPF withdrawal rules in 2025 reflect a balance between safeguarding retirement adequacy and offering flexibility when it is truly needed. By allowing early withdrawals on medical grounds and structured access from age 55 onwards, the system protects long-term security while showing compassion in times of hardship. With clear eligibility conditions and straightforward application processes, Singaporeans can make informed financial decisions that secure both their present needs and future retirement stability.