Question 1

What is Seller's Stamp Duty (SSD) in Singapore and when does it apply?

Accepted Answer

SSD is payable when you sell a residential property within the holding period. For residential property bought on or after 4 July 2025 the holding period is 4 years, with SSD rates of 16% (sold in year 1), 12% (year 2), 8% (year 3) and 4% (year 4); no SSD after 4 years. For property bought 11 March 2017 to 3 July 2025 the holding period is 3 years (12% / 8% / 4%). SSD is charged on the higher of the selling price or market value at disposal. Source: IRAS. These are educational estimates.

Question 2

How much is ABSD (Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty) in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

From 27 April 2023: Singapore Citizens pay 0% on a first residential property, 20% on a second and 30% on a third or subsequent. Permanent Residents pay 5% / 30% / 35%. Foreigners pay 60% and entities/trustees 65% (housing developers have separate treatment). ABSD is charged on the higher of price or market value. Source: IRAS.

Question 3

How is Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) calculated?

Accepted Answer

BSD on residential property is tiered: 1% on the first S$180,000, 2% on the next S$180,000, 3% on the next S$640,000, 4% on the next S$500,000, 5% on the next S$1,500,000 and 6% above S$3,000,000, applied to the higher of purchase price or market value. Source: IRAS (rates from 15 February 2023).

Question 4

How much CPF LIFE payout will I get at age 65?

Accepted Answer

For a member turning 55 in 2026 on the CPF LIFE Standard Plan, CPF Board illustrative estimates from age 65 are about S$950/month at the Basic Retirement Sum (S$110,200), S$1,780/month at the Full Retirement Sum (S$220,400) and around S$3,180–3,440/month at the Enhanced Retirement Sum (S$440,800). These are illustrative, not guaranteed or personalised. Source: CPF Board.

Question 5

What is the HDB loan limit, interest rate and MSR/TDSR?

Accepted Answer

An HDB housing loan offers up to 75% loan-to-value at a concessionary 2.6% per annum (a peg above the CPF OA rate). The Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR) caps the monthly instalment at 30% of gross monthly income for HDB flats and ECs from the developer; bank loans are also subject to the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) of 55%. Source: HDB / MAS. Indicative only.

Question 6

Is PlanLiaoMah free, and is it affiliated with the government?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all calculators are free with no sign-up, in English and 中文. PlanLiaoMah is an independent educational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to any Singapore government agency. Results are illustrative estimates, not financial, tax or legal advice.

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