In this article, let’s look at how to apply for the Housewife Bonus and some of the important details you should know about this scheme.
Understanding the Housewife Bonus
The Housewife Bonus is a tax rebate given to married Singaporean mothers who have a child born on or after 1st January 2008. The rebate is aimed at recognizing the hard work of mothers who forgo their careers to take care of their children at home.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Housewife Bonus, the following requirements must be met:
– You must be married and living with your spouse
– You must be a Singaporean citizen
– You must have a child born on or after 1st January 2008
– You must be a stay-at-home mother and not earning any income
How to Apply for the Housewife Bonus
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the Housewife Bonus through your annual income tax. Here are the steps to apply:
Step 1: Complete your annual income tax return
The Housewife’s Bonus scheme is tied to your annual income tax return, so the first thing you need to do is to complete your tax return.
Step 2: Complete the Parenthood Tax Rebate Form
After you have completed your tax return, you need to complete the Parenthood Tax Rebate Form. This form is available on the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) website. You can also request for a copy to be sent to you by calling the IRAS hotline at 1800-356-8300.
Step 3: Submit the form
Once you have completed the form, you need to submit it to IRAS together with your tax return. You can do this by mail or through e-Filing.
Important Details to Note
– The Housewife Bonus is given once a year and is capped at $1,000 per household regardless of the number of eligible mothers.
– If you have more than one qualifying child, you will receive the $5,000 Parenthood Tax Rebate, and you will not be eligible for the Housewife Bonus.
– To receive the bonus, the husband must have paid at least $3,000 in income tax for the year.
Conclusion
If you are a stay-at-home mother and meet the eligibility criteria, applying for the Housewife Bonus can be a great way to ease some financial burdens. The process is straightforward and integrated with your annual income tax, so it’s one less thing to worry about. Remember to complete your tax return, fill up the Parenthood Tax Rebate Form, and submit it to IRAS to qualify for the bonus.