Singapore’s Baby Bonus Scheme benefits mostly cash and CDA (Child Development Account) benefits new parents. The question does arise, however, whether the government will raise the cash amount in 2026 to further support families.
Despite the already low birth rates and high costs of child-rearing, people are still looking and hoping for updates. The scheme made a small step forward in 2025 but Budget 2026 could be the one to bring fresh good news.
The Baby Bonus gives parents who are entitled to it both cash in hand and savings equal to whatever amount of money they will spend on the child’s early years, up to a specified limit. This includes Childcare, healthcare and education at places that are approved.
Cash Gift Amounts Currently
For infants who will be born on or after the 18th of February 2025:
- First two children: S$11,000
- Third one and the rest: S$13,000
Payments are distributed over a period, with larger upfront portions for immediate needs.
The CDA First Step Grant
Every child who meets the eligibility criteria will receive S$5,000 deposit into their CDA account at no cost.
For the third child and above under the Large Families Scheme, it is S$10,000.
Government Matching in the CDA
The more parents save, the more the government will increase the amount saved up to a certain cap.
This is a way to double your contributions for a longer-term growth.
Eligibility Rules
Children enrolled must be Singaporean citizens. Parents must be lawfully married (or satisfy the conditions for the unmarried category).
Application must be done at the time of birth registration or afterwards via LifeSG.
How Benefits Are Paid
The cash gift is delivered every half year, up to the child’s 6.5 years of age.
The amount of CDA funds that are available for approved expenses is limited to the child’s 12 years of age or the amount transferred to education accounts.
Possible Changes in 2026
There has been no official word on any cash gift increase yet. February’s Budget 2026 may be the one to announce the updates.
History of enhancements shows that the government is responsive to family demands.
Baby Bonus Benefits Comparison
Check the table below to see benefits for children born on/after 18 Feb 2025:
| Birth Order | Cash Gift Total | CDA First Step Grant | Matching Cap (Typical) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st or 2nd | S$11,000 | S$5,000 | Up to caps per child |
| 3rd and subsequent | S$13,000 | S$10,000 (Large Families) | Higher for larger families |
| All | Paid over years | Auto-deposited | Dollar-for-dollar |
Tips for New Parents
Early registration to start the benefits. Save in CDA to maximize the matching grant.
Always check the official websites for the most recent updates.
The Baby Bonus Scheme is a very strong support for parents with cash gifts up to S$13,000 and highly generous CDA benefits. Although there is still no 2026 increase confirmed, it is still worth keeping an eye on the budget announcements.
Why not take a trip to madeforfamilies.gov.sg or LifeSG today to learn more or to apply when your baby arrives? Every little bit helps create a wonderful beginning!