We want the best for our children — and that includes protecting their health so that they grow up safe and well. While the costs of raising a child in Singapore may be high, thankfully, there are schemes in place to help parents. One of these government schemes is the Baby Bonus Scheme, which aims to provide families with financial support.
Here’s what you need to know about the Baby Bonus Scheme, and how you can use these funds to pay for your childcare costs at any of our DA clinics.
What is the Baby Bonus Scheme?
Part of the Ministry of Social and Family Development’s Marriage and Parenthood Package, the Baby Bonus Scheme is meant to help reduce the financial costs of raising a child. It consists of two portions: 1) Cash Gift and 2) a special savings account, called the Child Development Account.
Your child will have to be a Singaporean citizen to be eligible for this; you can check their eligibility here.
How do I apply for this scheme?
You can submit an online application as early as 2 months before your little one’s estimated delivery date. What you’ll need on hand while applying is: a bank account (and the details of the account holder) for the cash gift to be deposited in and your marriage certificate.
How much will I receive for the cash gift?
The amount for the one-off cash gift depends on the number of children you have. For a full breakdown of the amount, you can refer to the table on the official website.
You’ll receive the first portion of the cash gift within 7 – 10 days of your little one’s birth (after you’ve applied for the scheme); and the full amount will be given out over 18 months, which you can use to help with the costs of a newborn.
What is the Child Development Account (CDA)?
The CDA is a special savings account for your child, which comes with several benefits:
- A deposit of $3,000 under the CDA First Step Grant
- A dollar-for-dollar Government co-matching for each dollar you deposit in your child’s account (up to a certain amount, until your child turns 12 years old)
The CDA account will be opened under DBS, POSB, OCBC, or UOB (depending on your preference).
What can I use it for?
Funds in the CDA can be used for educational and healthcare expenses at a Baby Bonus Approved Institution — which all 9 DA clinics are a part of. You can keep an eye out for the Baby Bonus logo, to see if the clinic or institution is under the Baby Bonus.
What sort of healthcare services are covered under the Baby Bonus?
All our clinics are Baby Bonus Approved Institutions. You can use your child’s Baby Bonus to pay for:
- Consultations with a child’s health GP and prescribed medication
- Child Developmental Assessments to stay on top of your child’s developmental milestones
- Recommended childhood vaccinations, as listed by the Ministry of Health
Speak to our clinic staff when making your appointment to be sure of your coverage, if you have any additional clarifications.
What do I need to do at the clinic, to pay using the Baby Bonus?
All you need to do is present your Baby Bonus card when you’re making payment.
You can count on our GP doctors for routine health checks, vaccinations and medical advice and treatment for childhood illnesses. Here’s where you can find your nearest DA clinic — our friendly GPs and clinic team are always ready to help!
