KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- CPF Full Retirement Sum (FRS) for 2026 is set at S$228,200, with higher caps under the Enhanced Retirement Sum (ERS).
- Singaporeans turning 55 in 2026 will see changes due to the Special Account (SA) closure and updated CPF LIFE payouts.
- Early planning, voluntary top-ups, and understanding BRS–FRS options can significantly improve retirement income.
Singaporeans approaching age 55 in 2026 will face updated CPF retirement benchmarks that directly affect lifelong monthly payouts. Understanding these figures early helps avoid last-minute shortfalls.
CPF Retirement Sums for 2026 (At Age 55)
| Retirement Sum Type | Amount (SGD) | Who It Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Retirement Sum (BRS) | S$114,100 | Property owners meeting lease requirements |
| Full Retirement Sum (FRS) | S$228,200 | Standard benchmark for CPF LIFE |
| Enhanced Retirement Sum (ERS) | S$456,400 | For higher lifelong monthly payouts |
Understanding BRS, FRS and ERS in 2026
The CPF retirement sums are calculated based on essential spending needs of lower-middle income retirees in Singapore.
BRS (S$114,100)
Available to members who own a property with a lease covering them to at least age 95. This option allows higher CPF withdrawals at 55 but results in lower monthly payouts.
FRS (S$228,200)
This is the standard benchmark. Members who meet the FRS receive higher CPF LIFE payouts, providing stronger protection against rising living costs.
ERS (S$456,400)
From 2025 onwards, the ERS cap increased to 4× BRS. Members who top up to this level can secure substantially higher lifelong income.
Special Account (SA) Closure: What Changes in 2026
From 2025, the Special Account is closed for CPF members aged 55 and above.
What happens at 55:
- SA savings are transferred to the Retirement Account (RA) up to the FRS.
- Any excess SA balance moves to the Ordinary Account (OA).
- Funds in RA earn up to 4.08% p.a., while OA earns 2.5% p.a.
This change makes it easier to meet the FRS automatically but requires proactive action for those aiming beyond it.
CPF LIFE Payouts for FRS 2026
Meeting the FRS allows automatic enrolment into CPF LIFE, Singapore’s national annuity scheme managed by the Central Provident Fund.
Estimated monthly payouts (from age 65):
- FRS (S$228,200): ~S$1,700 to S$1,900 under the Standard Plan
- ERS (S$456,400): Can exceed S$3,500 per month
CPF LIFE Plans:
- Standard Plan: Higher, fixed payouts
- Escalating Plan: Starts lower, increases ~2% yearly
- Basic Plan: Lower payouts with higher bequest
How to Reach the FRS by 2026
1. Retirement Sum Topping-Up (RSTU)
- Up to S$8,000 tax relief per year for self top-ups
- Additional S$8,000 for top-ups to family members
2. Voluntary Contributions (VC)
- Useful for self-employed or irregular income earners
- Safe, government-backed interest rates
3. Ordinary Account Optimisation
- OA funds beyond S$20,000 can be invested under CPFIS
- Options include Singapore T-Bills and low-cost funds
Property and the BRS Option
Property owners may withdraw CPF savings above the BRS if their lease covers them to age 95.
However, leaving funds in the RA up to the FRS usually results in much stronger monthly income, which is often more practical than a lump-sum withdrawal.
Why This Matters
Singapore’s retirement sums rise by about 5% annually. For younger workers, future FRS levels could exceed S$300,000.
Planning early reduces reliance on property pledges and helps compound CPF interest over decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot meet the FRS in 2026?
You will still receive CPF LIFE payouts based on your RA balance, but monthly income will be lower.
Can property be used to meet the FRS?
Yes. You may set aside the BRS in cash and pledge your property for the balance.
Is the ERS for 2026 really S$456,400?
Yes. It is set at 4× the BRS following recent Budget changes.
Does SA closure make retirement harder?
It simplifies meeting the FRS but requires action for those saving beyond it.
Are CPF LIFE payouts inflation-protected?
The Escalating Plan offers a built-in annual increase of about 2%.
Conclusion
The CPF FRS 2026 of S$228,200 is a critical retirement benchmark for Singaporeans. With SA restructuring and higher ERS limits, proactive planning matters more than ever.
Review your CPF balances early, consider voluntary top-ups, and choose a CPF LIFE plan aligned with your long-term needs.
Sources
- CPF Board: Retirement Sum Topping-Up Scheme
