Turning 55 feels like a milestone. For many Singaporeans, it also raises a big question: “How much of my CPF can I actually withdraw?” The CPF Withdrawal Rules 2026 try to strike a careful balance — giving you some flexibility now while protecting your income later.
And there’s an important update this year. The Special Account (SA) will be fully closed for members turning 55 in 2026. The savings will be automatically transferred to the Retirement Account (RA). No action needed. The goal? Stronger lifelong payouts.
Why CPF Withdrawal Rules Are Structured This Way
Here’s the thing. People are living longer. A retirement that once lasted 10–15 years can now stretch 20–30 years.
CPF isn’t designed as a lump-sum savings account. It’s built to provide monthly income for life through CPF LIFE starting at age 65. That’s why the CPF Withdrawal Rules 2026 allow partial withdrawals at 55 — but keep the bulk invested for steady payouts.
Think about it this way: withdrawing everything at 55 might feel good today. But what about age 85?
Retirement Sums in 2026
If you turn 55 in 2026, these are the required retirement sums:
| Retirement Sum Type | Amount (2026) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Retirement Sum (BRS) | S$110,200 | Minimum for basic monthly payouts |
| Full Retirement Sum (FRS) | S$220,400 | Standard for comfortable lifelong income |
| Enhanced Retirement Sum (ERS) | S$440,800 | Maximum for highest payouts |
Any savings above the Full Retirement Sum (FRS) are withdrawable at age 55.
If you own property with a lease lasting at least to age 95, you can pledge it. That lowers the required cash amount needed for FRS, allowing you to withdraw more upfront.
What Happens to the Special Account in 2026?
This is the key change.
For members turning 55 in 2026, the Special Account (SA) will be closed. The funds move automatically into the Retirement Account (RA).
Why does this matter?
Because the RA forms the base for CPF LIFE payouts. Consolidating funds there helps increase long-term monthly income. It simplifies the structure and focuses savings on retirement payouts instead of multiple accounts.
How Much Can You Withdraw at 55?
Under the CPF Withdrawal Rules 2026, you can withdraw:
- At least S$5,000
- Or any amount above your Full Retirement Sum
Withdrawals can be done online through cpf.gov.sg or at CPF Service Centres.
There’s also a daily online withdrawal limit of S$50,000 for security purposes.
CPF LIFE Payouts from Age 65
At 65, CPF LIFE begins monthly payouts for life.
The amount depends on your RA balance. Higher balance, higher payout. Simple.
You can also defer payouts up to age 70. Each year of deferral increases payouts by up to 7 percent per year. That can significantly boost monthly income if you don’t need the money immediately.
CPF LIFE offers three plans:
- Standard Plan
- Basic Plan
- Escalating Plan (payouts increase 2 percent yearly)
Choosing the right plan depends on your lifestyle needs and family considerations.
Early Withdrawal: Is It Possible?
Withdrawals before age 55 are very limited. They are allowed only in cases such as:
- Permanent departure from Singapore
- Terminal illness
- Total permanent disability
Otherwise, funds remain locked in to safeguard retirement income.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’re approaching 55, log in to cpf.gov.sg and use the Retirement Calculator. Test different scenarios. See how deferring payouts changes your monthly income.
The CPF Withdrawal Rules 2026 aren’t about restriction. They’re about protection. A steady monthly income for life can offer something more valuable than a large one-time withdrawal — peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much CPF can I withdraw at 55 in 2026?
You can withdraw at least S$5,000 or any savings above the Full Retirement Sum (S$220,400 in 2026). Property owners may withdraw more by pledging their home if lease requirements are met.
What happens to my Special Account when I turn 55?
In 2026, the Special Account is fully closed for members turning 55. All balances are automatically transferred to the Retirement Account to support CPF LIFE payouts.
Can I increase my CPF LIFE payouts?
Yes. You can increase payouts by setting aside more up to the Enhanced Retirement Sum or by deferring payouts up to age 70, which raises monthly income by up to 7 percent per year deferred.
Also read: Singapore Cost of Living Support 2026: Practical Relief With Automatic Benefits Explained