Improve the means tested scheme

2 February 2012 

Eidtor, Forum Page

Straits Times

A panel of Member of Parliaments have the Government

to refine its means testing to make them more equitable and

representative. 

This testing is now used for large scale transfer schemes, such 

as GST Voucher and Central Provide Fund top-ups. Currently, 

they are based on assessable income and annual value of 

residences. 

There has been many complaints from retirees who have 

insufficient income but now live in property with annual values that

exceed the thresholds. 

As means testing is going to be used quite often, the Government

should take the additional step of keeping a record of people

who fall within the test.  The people who qualify could fall within

the currently used criteria. 

Those who fall outside the criteria and do not have adequate income

can apply to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. If approved, their

record can be updated to allow them to be entitled to the financial 

assistance. 

At a later date, applicants can apply for a "means tested card" that can 

be used to access other benefits, such as health care or transport.

Tan Kin Lian