The Central Provident Fund (CPF) in Singapore is a social security savings plan that allows access to money during crucial periods of life. The primary access points are from the age of 55 for full withdrawals and 65 for monthly payouts. The governing regulations will not change until 2026, though the contribution rates will be increased and other regulations like the latter will still be active.
More and more individuals are contemplating retirement amidst an increase in their life span, thus being aware of these regulations will assist in planning their cash requirements while investing the rest of the funds in a secure way for future use.
Withdrawals Commence at Age 55
As soon as you turn 55, you will have the option to take a portion of your CPF account for your urgent needs. A Retirement Account (RA) will be set up, and the sum of that particular cohort will be set aside first.
Even if the amounts are not met, you will always get at least $5,000 without any conditions.
What You Can Withdraw at 55
First set aside the Full Retirement Sum (FRS, which is about $220,400 for the people turning 55 in 2026), withdraw the excess from the Ordinary Account (OA) and whatever is left.
The owners of property who have enough left on the lease can set aside a smaller amount and withdraw a larger amount.
Monthly Payouts Starting from 65
At 65, you are still eligible to receive the payout – this has not changed with the rise of the retirement age to 64.
Join the CPF LIFE scheme to receive a monthly payment for life. You can commence anytime between 65 to 70; if you postpone, the amounts will be increased.
Extra Lump Sum at 65
Once you reach the age of 65, you can take out 20% of the RA savings as a lump sum as often as you like.
This provides flexibility during the time when only a few funds are controlling steady payouts.
Impact of Special Account Closure
The 2025 closure of SA for those over 55 will not have any impact on the withdrawal rules. The excess will be either put in the OA (which can be withdrawn) or the RA (for payouts).
In 2026, the focus will be on RA for a guaranteed retirement.
Other Withdrawal Scenarios
Are you leaving Singapore for good? Withdraw the entire amount. On medical grounds or if you show reduced life expectancy, you can access your funds earlier.
Withdrawal Options Comparison
The following table shows the major rules for the cohort turning 55 in 2026:
| Age | Key Rule | Amount Withdrawable | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | Lump sum after RA set-aside | Min $5,000 + excess above FRS | Property pledge for more |
| 55-64 | Ongoing for needs | No limit on applications | From OA mainly |
| From 65 | Start monthly payouts | Lifelong via CPF LIFE | Delay to 70 for higher |
| From 65 | Extra lump sum | Up to 20% of RA | Anytime |
| Special Cases | Full/partial early | Varies | Leaving SG, medical |
Advices to Prepare
If there is no immediate need for the money, better to leave it in CPF for an interest of up to 6%. Contribute to RA for larger payouts.
The withdrawal provisions from CPF in Singapore by 2026 mean a compromise between flexibility and security—lump sums from 55, and stable income from 65.
To check balances, estimate withdrawals, or devise a payout strategy, log in to your CPF dashboard today! Ready for a retired life with no hassles? Start your planning now!