To promote stronger family support systems and encourage multi-generational living, the Singapore government introduced the Proximity Housing Grant (PHG). This housing incentive offers substantial financial assistance to Singaporeans who choose to live with or near their parents or children. Administered by the Housing & Development Board (HDB), the PHG helps to make homeownership more affordable while fostering closer family connections.
What Is the Proximity Housing Grant?
The Proximity Housing Grant is a one-time cash grant that helps Singaporean families and singles offset the cost of buying a resale flat to live with or near their parents or children. Unlike other grants, PHG is available regardless of household income or whether the applicant has previously received housing subsidies.
It is especially attractive for families who prefer the flexibility of resale flats over new Build-To-Order (BTO) flats and want to stay closer to their loved ones for support and caregiving.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the PHG, applicants must meet the following key eligibility criteria:
1. Citizenship
- At least one applicant must be a Singapore Citizen.
2. Flat Type
- Must be buying a resale flat (not applicable to BTO or executive condominiums).
3. Family Proximity
- The resale flat must be:
- In the same HDB town or within 4 km of the parents’ or children’s residence, or
- In the same flat (i.e., living together under one roof).
4. Relationship
- Must be buying the flat to live with or near parents, children, or in-laws (if applicable through marriage).
5. Ownership and Residency
- Parents or children must be Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents and must reside in the stated address.
6. No Prior PHG Received
- The applicant must not have previously received the PHG.
Grant Amounts
The PHG amount depends on your living arrangement and household type:
| Household Type | Living With Parents/Children | Living Near Parents/Children |
|---|---|---|
| Families (married couples) | $30,000 | $20,000 |
| Singles (age 35 and above) | $15,000 | $10,000 |
How Is “Near” Defined?
To qualify for the “near” category, the new resale flat must be:
- Located within 4 kilometers of the family member’s residence, or
- In the same town, according to HDB’s planning zones.
Note: A proximity distance check will be conducted by HDB during the application process.
Combining with Other Grants
One of the benefits of PHG is that it can be used in combination with other HDB grants:
- CPF Housing Grant (up to $50,000)
- Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) (up to $80,000)
When stacked together, eligible families could receive well over $100,000 in grants when buying a resale flat near or with their family.
How to Apply
The PHG application is submitted automatically when you apply for a resale flat on the HDB Resale Portal.
Steps include:
- Submit a resale application via the HDB Resale Portal.
- Declare your intent to live with or near your family member.
- HDB will verify proximity and eligibility based on NRIC addresses and GPS distance.
- Grant amount will be credited to your CPF Ordinary Account after flat purchase completion.
Note: If you or your family member are planning to relocate to meet PHG conditions, both addresses (before and after) must be updated with ICA and HDB accordingly.
Important Considerations
- The PHG is a one-time grant and cannot be claimed again if you move or purchase another resale flat in the future.
- Ensure that the family member you intend to live with or near is not selling their property shortly after you move in—HDB may claw back the grant if the proximity condition is no longer met.
- You must retain the flat for at least 5 years under the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) before selling it.
Final Thoughts
The Proximity Housing Grant not only promotes affordable homeownership but also encourages strong intergenerational support in Singapore. Whether it’s helping with childcare, elder care, or simply sharing responsibilities, living near or with family provides meaningful social and emotional benefits. If you’re planning to purchase a resale flat and value closeness with your loved ones, this grant can significantly ease your financial load.