Turning 55 used to mean one big question for many Singaporeans: How much of my CPF can I finally touch? In 2026, that question still matters—but the answer is more structured than most people expect.
The CPF withdrawal rules 2026 are designed around a simple idea. Give members some flexibility at 55, but protect enough savings so monthly income lasts for life. If you understand the milestones early, there are no surprises later.
The Big Change You Should Know About
One quiet but important update is this: for members aged 55 and above, the Special Account (SA) is closed. Any remaining SA savings are moved into the Retirement Account (RA). The goal is to strengthen future payouts rather than leave money scattered across accounts.
Think of the RA as your retirement “engine.” Everything now feeds into it.
Key CPF Age Milestones Explained
At age 55, CPF transfers savings from your Ordinary Account and Special Account into the Retirement Account, up to the required retirement sum. Anything beyond that threshold becomes withdrawable.
At age 65, CPF LIFE kicks in automatically. This is when monthly payouts start and continue for as long as you live. No need to apply unless you want to adjust payout options.
Retirement Sums for 2026
For members turning 55 in 2026, retirement sums have been adjusted upward to keep pace with living costs.
| Retirement Sum Type | Amount (2026) | What It’s For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Retirement Sum (BRS) | S$110,200 | Covers basic monthly needs |
| Full Retirement Sum (FRS) | S$220,400 | Standard level for comfortable payouts |
| Enhanced Retirement Sum (ERS) | S$440,800 | Higher lifelong monthly income |
Any savings above the Full Retirement Sum can be withdrawn in cash at age 55.
What You Can Withdraw at Age 55
Every member can withdraw at least S$5,000, even if retirement sums aren’t met. If your CPF balance exceeds the FRS, that excess is fully withdrawable.
Own a property? If your home lease lasts until age 95, you can pledge it to meet part of the FRS. This lowers the cash amount locked in your RA and frees up more money for immediate use.
CPF LIFE Payouts From Age 65
CPF LIFE provides guaranteed monthly income for life. The more you have in your RA, the higher your payouts. You can also defer payouts up to age 70. Each year you delay increases your monthly amount by about 7 percent.
That’s one of the few places where waiting actually pays.
Early Withdrawals: Only in Special Situations
Accessing CPF before 55 is tightly controlled. It’s allowed mainly for permanent departure from Singapore, terminal illness, or total permanent disability. Online withdrawals also have daily limits, usually capped at S$50,000, for security reasons.
Why These Rules Exist
The CPF withdrawal rules 2026 may feel strict, but they’re built around longevity. People are living longer. CPF ensures you don’t outlive your savings.
If you’re planning ahead, use the CPF Retirement Calculator to test different scenarios. It’s one of the smartest ways to avoid regret later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I withdraw all my CPF savings at age 55?
No. You can withdraw any amount above the Full Retirement Sum, plus a minimum of S$5,000. The rest stays in your Retirement Account to provide monthly payouts later.
Does closing the Special Account mean I lose money?
No. Your SA savings are transferred into your Retirement Account. The money remains yours and continues earning interest to support higher CPF LIFE payouts.
Is it better to defer CPF LIFE payouts?
If you can afford to wait, deferring payouts up to age 70 increases your monthly income significantly. It’s especially useful if you’re still working or have other income sources.