INFOGRAPHIC: Why Your CPF Savings Are Not Enough for Retirement

Ryan Ong

Ryan Ong

Last updated 23 November, 2015
<span id="hs_cos_wrapper_name" class="hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_text" style="" data-hs-cos-general-type="meta_field" data-hs-cos-type="text" >INFOGRAPHIC: Why Your CPF Savings Are Not Enough for Retirement</span>

Many Singaporeans think CPF savings alone are enough to cover their retirement costs in Singapore. Here's why they're sorely mistaken.

Most Singaporeans rely on their CPF savings to provide for retirement. But with the rising cost of living, and CPF already used to pay for your flat, there's a chance it may not be enough for a comfortable retirement.

Here's what you need to know about whether or not your CPF will suffice.

infographic CPF retirement

Your CPF is an important retirement tool - but it's not going to be enough. Here's why:

Inflation Rate Risk

Typical rate of inflation in Singapore: 3% per annum

CPF interest rates: 2.5% - 3.5% for Ordinary Account, 5% for Special Account and Medisave Account

After inflation, the CPF OA may only be growing at around 0.5% per annum. Enough for a basic retirement, but it may not be a comfortable one!

The CPF Must Pay For Your House Too

HDB loan rate = 0.1% ABOVE the prevailing CPF rate (approx. 2.6%)

Downpayment for the house: 10% of property value. For a S$200,000 flat, S$20,000 is deducted from CPF for the down payment.

If your flat is too expensive, you might have nothing but a "bare bones" retirement.

CPF Can't Save You From Loss of Income

CPF is made of 20% of your pay, plus 17% employer's contribution.

If you are ever unable to work (e.g. medical emergency), your CPF will stop growing. You may not have enough for retirement.

Complement your existing MediSave with private insurance policies!

You Might Also Want to Read:

INFOGRAPHIC: How to Save on Maternity Costs in Singapore

What Are You Doing to Plan For Your Retirement?

blog CTA

Ryan has been writing about finance for the last 10 years. He also has his fingers in a lot of other pies, having written for publications such as Men’s Health, Her World, Esquire, and Yahoo! Finance.

FINANCIAL TIP:

Use a personal loan to consolidate your outstanding debt at a lower interest rate!

Sign up for our newsletter for financial tips, tricks and exclusive information that can be personalised to your preferences!