The Housing & Development Board (HDB) in Singapore offers several housing schemes to address the needs of its senior population, enabling them to age in place, downsize, or unlock the value of their property. The most suitable scheme depends on individual financial situations, lifestyle choices, and whether they prefer to remain in their current home or move.
HDB schemes for monetizing your flat
Seniors who own an HDB flat can convert its value into retirement income through two primary schemes: the Lease Buyback Scheme (LBS) and the Silver Housing Bonus (SHB).
Lease Buyback Scheme (LBS)
Under the Lease Buyback Scheme, seniors aged 65 and above can sell a portion of their flat's lease back to HDB. They can retain a lease duration of 15 to 35 years in 5-year steps, ensuring it covers the youngest owner until at least 95 years old. Proceeds from the sale are used to top up their CPF Retirement Account (RA), which increases their monthly CPF LIFE payouts. Any remaining cash is given as a lump sum. To be eligible, at least one owner must be a Singapore Citizen, all owners must be at least 65, the flat must have at least 20 years left on its lease, and there is a household income ceiling. This scheme allows seniors to stay in their home while securing a lifelong income.
Silver Housing Bonus (SHB)
The Silver Housing Bonus encourages seniors who downsize to a smaller flat. It offers a cash bonus of up to $40,000. Seniors sell their existing property and purchase a smaller HDB flat, specifically a 3-room or smaller. As of December 2025, a net increase of up to $60,000 in their CPF RA using CPF refunds or cash is required to be eligible for the SHB. An extra $10,000 bonus is given for right-sizing to a 2-room or smaller flat, including a Community Care Apartment. Eligibility starts from age 55, with a household income ceiling. Private property owners may also qualify if their property's annual value is within the limit. The benefit is reduced maintenance costs and freed-up cash while boosting retirement income.
Comparison: Lease Buyback vs. Silver Housing Bonus
Choosing between LBS and SHB depends on individual circumstances. The table below highlights key differences.
| Feature | Lease Buyback Scheme (LBS) | Silver Housing Bonus (SHB) |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Sell a portion of your flat's lease back to HDB. | Sell your current property and buy a smaller flat. |
| Flat Type | All HDB flat types (excluding short-lease, HUDC, and Executive Condominiums). | Purchase of a 3-room or smaller flat is required. |
| Age | 65 and above. | 55 and above. |
| Relocation | Remain in your existing flat. | Relocate to a new, smaller flat. |
| Maximum Bonus | Up to $30,000 cash bonus. | Up to $40,000 cash bonus (with enhanced bonus for 2-room or smaller flat). |
| Inheritance | Flat's value decreases as lease is shortened. | Beneficiaries inherit the new, smaller flat. |
HDB housing options for seniors
Beyond monetization, HDB offers specific housing types and programs tailored for seniors.
2-Room Flexi flats
Seniors aged 55 and above can buy a new 2-room flat from HDB on a shorter lease (15 to 45 years). This offers a smaller, more affordable, and easier-to-maintain home. These flats include senior-friendly features like grab bars. The lease can be chosen in 5-year steps, covering owners until at least age 95.
Community Care Apartments (CCA)
Community Care Apartments are HDB's assisted living pilot, providing senior-friendly flats with a mandatory basic service package including care and support. CCAs have open layouts, communal areas, and services like emergency monitoring. They are for seniors aged 65 and above, prioritizing those needing care.
Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE)
The EASE program helps seniors who wish to stay in their current flat by subsidizing the installation of senior-friendly features for safety. These features include grab bars and ramps. The program is highly subsidized, requiring a small contribution from residents.
Conclusion
Seniors have several HDB schemes available to support their retirement years. The Lease Buyback Scheme allows for monetizing a current flat while staying put, providing a lifelong income. The Silver Housing Bonus offers a cash incentive for downsizing to a smaller flat. For those seeking new living arrangements, 2-Room Flexi flats and Community Care Apartments provide affordable, senior-friendly options with potential care services. Additionally, the EASE program makes existing homes safer with subsidized modifications. Each scheme aims to improve financial stability and peace of mind for seniors. More details on eligibility and calculations are available on the official HDB website.
