Who Actually Contributes to CPF
CPF contributions are mandatory only for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. If you're a foreigner working in Singapore on an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit, you don't contribute to CPF at all — your retirement and healthcare arrangements are handled separately, typically through private means.
2026 Contribution Rates by Age
| Age | Employee | Employer | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 and below | 20% | 17% | 37% |
| Above 55 to 60 | 17% | 15.5% | 32.5% |
| Above 60 to 65 | 11.5% | 12% | 23.5% |
| Above 65 to 70 | 7.5% | 9% | 16.5% |
| Above 70 | 5% | 7.5% | 12.5% |
Rates only apply up to the Ordinary Wage ceiling ($8,000/month as of January 2026) — earnings above that in a given month aren't subject to CPF.
Where the Money Actually Goes — Three Accounts
| Account | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Account (OA) | Housing, insurance, approved investments, education |
| Special Account (SA) | Retirement savings and retirement-related investments |
| MediSave Account (MA) | Hospital bills and approved medical insurance |
Every contribution is automatically split across these three accounts based on your age, not left in one general pool — the exact allocation ratio shifts as you get older, generally moving more into MediSave over time.
Worked Example
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly wage (age 30) | $6,000 |
| Employee contribution (20%) | $1,200 |
| Employer contribution (17%) | $1,020 |
| Total monthly CPF | $2,220 |
Note the employer's 17% doesn't come out of your paycheck — it's a separate cost your employer bears on top of your salary, credited directly into your CPF accounts alongside your own contribution.
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Frequently Asked Questions
CPF rates step down progressively from age 55 as shown, reflecting recent gradual increases for older workers. Only applies to Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. The Ordinary Wage ceiling is $8,000/month (as of Jan 2026). Verify current rates with the CPF Board.