In Singapore, National Service is a shared responsibility that every eligible male citizen and permanent resident undertakes. It is a commitment that shapes the country’s defence and social resilience. To recognise this contribution, the government has announced the $200 LifeSG bonus for servicemen in 2025. This initiative, also referred to as the NS LifeSG Credits, is a token of appreciation for both current and past servicemen.
This article explains what the bonus is, who qualifies, how to redeem it, and how to make the most of it before it expires.
Understanding the $200 LifeSG Bonus
The LifeSG bonus is not given out as cash but credited digitally into the LifeSG app. It can be used for daily spending at participating merchants that support PayNow UEN QR or NETS QR payments. The intention is to make it simple, secure, and widely accessible.
By providing these credits, the government hopes to acknowledge the time and sacrifices made by servicemen while encouraging the adoption of digital payment platforms in Singapore.
Who Is Eligible
Eligibility is straightforward. Several groups of servicemen will automatically receive the credits.
First, full-time national servicemen who enlisted on or before 31 December 2024 will be included. These are the young men currently serving their two-year commitment in the Singapore Armed Forces, Police Force, or Civil Defence Force.
Second, operationally ready national servicemen, often referred to as NSmen, will also be covered. This includes those who have completed their full-time service and are now serving their reservist obligations or have already completed their cycle.
Both groups will receive the same $200 amount, regardless of the length or type of service, as long as they fall within the eligibility window.
When and How the Credits Are Disbursed
The credits are progressively disbursed through the LifeSG mobile app. Most eligible servicemen receive them automatically by the end of November 2024, and the same scheme continues into 2025 for those who were enlisted by the cutoff date.
Servicemen do not need to apply. Once disbursed, an SMS will be sent from a government sender ID notifying recipients of the credit. A hard copy letter is also mailed to their registered address as confirmation.
Validity of the Bonus
The credits remain valid for one year from the date they are issued. For example, if a serviceman receives his $200 in November 2024, he has until November 2025 to use it. Any unused amount after that date will expire.
This means it is essential to plan purchases or redemptions within the timeframe to avoid losing the benefit.
How to Redeem and Use the Credits
Redeeming the bonus is simple and entirely digital. Here is how it works:
- Download and install the LifeSG mobile app if you do not already have it.
- Log in using your SingPass account, which ensures security and identity verification.
- Within the app, check the “NS LifeSG Credits” section to see the balance and expiry date.
- At a participating merchant, scan the PayNow UEN QR or NETS QR code using the LifeSG app and pay directly with your credits.
The process is designed to be seamless, making the credits as convenient as cash in most everyday spending situations.
Where the Credits Can Be Spent
The bonus can be used at a wide range of merchants across Singapore. This includes supermarkets, retail stores, dining outlets, and online platforms that accept PayNow or NETS QR.
Additionally, organisations such as SAFRA and HomeTeamNS have partnered with the scheme, providing extra promotions and discounts when servicemen use their credits there. This allows recipients to stretch the value of their $200 further through bundled deals or member-exclusive offers.
Can the Credits Be Converted to Cash
The government’s design is for the credits to be used directly at merchants, not to be withdrawn as cash. While some indirect methods may circulate among users, the official stance is that the credits should remain digital and used as intended.
Attempting to withdraw them into cash through unofficial channels may not only be inconvenient but could also lead to complications if done improperly. The safer and more practical choice is to treat them as digital spending credits.
Tips to Maximise the $200
With one year of validity, there is plenty of time to plan how to use the credits. Here are some useful tips:
- Prioritise daily essentials such as groceries or transport-related expenses so the credits ease regular spending.
- Check participating merchants for seasonal promotions or bundles that allow the credits to stretch further.
- Consider using the credits for family dining or activities at places like SAFRA, which often provide additional perks.
- Track the balance regularly on the LifeSG app to avoid letting any amount expire.
By treating the credits as a supplement to everyday expenses rather than a one-off splurge, servicemen can derive more practical value.
What To Do If You Face Issues
In case of difficulties such as credits not appearing, expired balances, or problems at merchants, several support options are available.
Servicemen can call the NS Call Centre for assistance, email the official contact channels, or visit ServiceSG centres where staff can guide them step by step. The LifeSG support team is also active and can provide troubleshooting for app-related issues.
It is reassuring to know that multiple help channels exist so that no serviceman misses out on his bonus.
Why This Bonus Matters
Beyond the $200 value, the bonus carries symbolic weight. It reflects national recognition of the sacrifices made by servicemen and their families. It is also aligned with Singapore’s push toward digitalisation, encouraging more citizens to embrace cashless payments in daily life.
Most importantly, it offers a tangible benefit that servicemen can use immediately, whether for essentials, leisure, or family needs. For many, it feels like a small but heartfelt gesture of gratitude from the nation they served.
Conclusion
The $200 LifeSG bonus for Singapore servicemen in 2025 is a straightforward but meaningful initiative. With automatic disbursement, simple redemption through the LifeSG app, and wide acceptance at merchants, it is both practical and symbolic.
All that is required is to check the app once notified, plan spending wisely, and make use of the credits within the one-year validity period. By doing so, servicemen can enjoy the reward in ways that support their daily needs while feeling appreciated for their service to Singapore.