Over half of Jobseeker Support Scheme applicants unsuccessful as of September 2026: MOM

About 54 per cent of applicants for Singapore's Jobseeker Support Scheme (JSS) were unsuccessful as of Sep. 30, 2026.

The most common reason was that applicants were not assessed to be involuntarily unemployed, accounting for 69 per cent of unsuccessful applicants.

Another 33 per cent of unsuccessful applicants had a previous average monthly income exceeding the scheme's S$5,000-per-month threshold.

Meanwhile, 18 per cent were unsuccessful because they had not worked for at least six months in the preceding 12 months.

Some applicants were unsuccessful for more than one reason, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said.

The figures were disclosed by Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau in a written parliamentary reply on Nov. 4.

She was responding to questions from MP Patrick Tay, who asked about the reasons for unsuccessful applications and whether eligibility could be expanded to include those who had been involuntarily unemployed for longer periods.

Tay also asked whether the maximum monthly and total financial support available under the scheme would be reviewed to better assist involuntarily unemployed middle-income workers.

Scheme parameters reviewed regularly

"We recognise that a prolonged job search where jobseekers have spent many months applying for jobs, attending interviews and retraining takes concerted effort, and imposes a financial and emotional toll," Lau said.

She added that the scheme's parameters are reviewed regularly to ensure it provides appropriate support, and that Tay's suggestions would be considered in the next review.