Singapore’s CPF Special Account Rules in 2026 What You Need to Know Singapore’s Central Provident Fund (CPF) Special Account (SA) has been a key component of retirement savings while earning attractive interest rates. A significant change occurred in early 2025 when the SA was closed for all members aged 55 & above. As we enter 2026 the regulations continue unchanged & retirement savings are managed through a more streamlined system. This approach ensures that funds remain protected for long-term retirement needs while continuing to generate favorable returns.
What Really Happened to the CPF Special Account in 2026?
In January 2025 the SA became unavailable for members who were 55 years old or older. The system transferred their remaining balances through a specific process. First the Retirement Account received credits up to the Full Retirement Sum amount. After that any leftover balance moved into the Ordinary Account. Members under 55 years old continue to maintain their SA account until they reach that age threshold.
Why the CPF Special Account Was Phased Out: Policy Logic Explained
The government wanted to adjust savings properly by setting different interest rates. The Ordinary Account has a lower rate because you can access that money more easily. Meanwhile the Retirement Account offers a higher rate since that money is locked in for retirement. This change makes the CPF system easier to understand and encourages people to plan better for their retirement years.
Will CPF Interest Rates Stay Attractive After the SA Closure?
The 4% minimum interest rate for Special, MediSave and Retirement Accounts will remain in place until the end of 2026. Your Retirement Account savings will continue to earn this guaranteed rate even after the account closes. This means you can feel secure about your returns regardless of what happens in the financial markets.
How the New CPF Contribution Structure Changes Retirement Savings
Starting from the new policy changes CPF contributions for members aged 55 and above will go directly into either the Retirement Account or Ordinary Account instead of the Special Account. The existing extra interest bonuses continue to apply across all accounts and help increase the total savings over time.
Smart Savings Alternatives After the CPF Special Account Ends
You can move money from your Ordinary Account to your Retirement Account up to the Enhanced Retirement Sum if you want to earn a better interest rate. Once you make this transfer you cannot undo it. However moving the money will help you get larger monthly payments when you retire. If you prefer you can leave the money in your Ordinary Account instead. This gives you flexibility to use it for different purposes like purchasing a home.
Special CPF Safeguards Introduced for Persons with Disabilities
Starting in 2026 disabled individuals who meet the eligibility requirements can receive MRSS matching funds when they make top-up contributions to their Special Account if they are under 55 years old or to their Retirement Account if they are 55 or older. This policy change allows disabled persons to start building their retirement savings at an earlier stage in life and represents a significant expansion of government support for this group.
CPF Before vs After 2026: Key Differences Retirees Must Know
| Aspect | Before 2025 (SA Active) | From 2025 Onwards (SA Closed) |
|---|---|---|
| Special Account Status | Special Account open and usable | Special Account fully closed |
| Interest on Extra Savings | Earns up to 4% interest in SA | Earns around 2.5% when moved to OA |
| Future CPF Contributions | Portion credited into SA | Credited directly into RA or OA |
| Top-Up Limit (ERS) | Maximum 3× Basic Retirement Sum | Raised to 4× BRS (up to $426,000 from 2025) |
| Withdrawal Flexibility | More flexible withdrawals from SA | Withdrawals mainly allowed from OA |
| 4% Floor Interest Rate | Applicable on SA and RA | Applicable only on Retirement Account (RA) |
The increase in salary limits & contribution rates means your CPF will grow more over time. Check your account dashboard to see how these changes work for you. The CPF Special Account will close under the new 2026 rules. This makes the system simpler while still giving you a 4% return on your retirement savings. The changes are meant to make planning easier & more reliable. Log in to your CPF account now to check your transfers and estimate your future payouts. You can also consider topping up your Retirement Account. Use these new rules to plan ahead with confidence.
