CPF LIFE is a retirement scheme of Singapore which converts your CPF money into a monthly payment for your whole life. Thus, it ensures a stable income during the retirement period. Usually, the people will receive these payments at 65 years but there is also the option of flexibility to select a different age.
Currently, as the number of Singaporeans with a long life increases, it is important to know the date of the starting of your payouts to plan a retired life that is both comfortable and secure.
What Is CPF LIFE?
Automatically, CPF LIFE registers you as a member if you are 55 years old and have S$60,000 or more in your Retirement Account (RA). The capital is the monthly payment for your entire life even if you live up to 95 years.
The whole idea is to provide psychological comfort by shielding you from the risk of running out of money.
The Standard Start Age: 65
Standard age for the payout is 65. In case you do not take any action, the monthly payments will start automatically when you reach 65.
This age has been consistent over the years and is not going to be changed in 2025 and 2026.
Why Age 65 Is the Default
Age 65 is a good compromise between earlier access and the growth of the capital. Payouts starting at 65 allow the funds to earn higher interest (up to 6%) for a decade past 55.
It coincides with the usual retirement age that many people have in mind.
Option to Start Earlier or Later
Payouts can start as early as age 62 (lower monthly amount) or can be delayed up to age 70 (higher monthly amount).
Payouts from delaying will be bigger, which is advantageous if you think you will be on the longer side of life.
How Delaying Affects Your Monthly Payout
The later the waiting period, the larger the amount of each monthly payment. The delay from 65 to 70 can result in your payout being increased by around 7% for every year that has passed by when you were supposed to start receiving it.
This is because of the interest accumulated and the shorter expected payout period.
CPF LIFE Start Age Options at a Glance
Look at the following table for clarification of the available options:
| Start Age | Monthly Payout Level | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62 | Lowest | Need cash earlier | Smaller amount for life |
| 65 | Standard | Most common choice | Automatic if no action taken |
| 68 | Higher | Want more income | Good middle option |
| 70 | Highest | Healthy, expect long life | Maximum monthly amount |
How to Choose Your Start Age
You may select any day between 55 and 70. The CPF Retirement Planner available online will help you to see the exact numbers.
One you have made the start, you can not change the date later on so be careful while choosing.
Good News: No Change in 2026
Even with the increase of the retirement age to 64 in July 2026 and onwards, the start age of CPF LIFE will still be 65. Your monthly income timing will not be affected.
The CPF LIFE payout start age of 65 ensures a reliable, lifelong income stream, with the flexibility to adjust it between 62 and 70 according to your needs.
Today, log in to your CPF account and use the retirement planner, check your savings, and determine the best start age for you. Early planning is the key!