Where Can I Spend My NS55 Credit Vouchers in Singapore?

Source: HomeTeamNS.sg

Who Is Eligible for the NS55 Voucher?

Serving National Service (NS) is often one of the most momentous events in a Singaporean male’s life, and perhaps one of the most unique features of Singapore. After all, one cannot underscore the importance of NS more, for it is our only line of defence against any potential external threats that Singapore might face.

As such, as MINDEF marks 55 years of National Service, it is indeed an occasion worth celebrating.

First announced in March, the NS Recognition Package is to be disbursed by MINDEF for NSMens’ and NSFs’ contributions to Singapore's defence. It consists of S$100 NS55 credit vouchers and a complimentary one-year SAFRA or HomeTeamNS membership.

So who is eligible? If you are NSmen or NSF as of May 2022, you are then qualified for the benefits. Do note that you need to register by 31 December 2022 in order to redeem the complimentary SAFRA or HomeTeamNS membership.

How Do You Claim the Vouchers?

The credits, which will be valid for a year, will be disbursed digitally for convenience from July 1 to July 31. You can download the LifeSG mobile application on your mobile phone to redeem the credits. Here are four easy steps to do so:

For some people, the LifeSG app might not reflect the S$100 credits yet. Some might not even be able to see the “Benefits and Support” section in the app. But fear not - the credits are issued on a rolling basis, so just be patient. Eventually, you should receive them by the end of July 2022.

‘Life Hack’ to Get the Vouchers in Cash

Source: Sheng Siong, Sengkang West Facebook

Some of you might wonder, why are the rewards in the form of credit vouchers and not cash? Perhaps it is to ensure recipients will spend the credits with Singapore-registered businesses via the LifeSG app.

Disbursed cash might end up being spent outside Singapore - for instance, being used to pump petrol in Johor Bahru, which is a notorious favourite pastime of Singaporeans.

However, it is understandable that having your S$100 being restricted to just a few businesses that accept PayNow transactions is inconvenient. As such, users have uncovered a way to ‘convert’ these credits to cash.

Sheng Shiong ATMs apparently can be used to dispense cash from the PayNow option. However, due to a $0.20 convenience fee, users can only withdraw a maximum of $90 from the machine, as withdrawing $100 would require a $100.20 credit instead. The remaining $9.80 can be kept as credits in the LifeSG app for use at other merchants.

Alternative: YouTrip & Revolut

Another innovative way to convert your credits to cash is through the use Of YouTrip and Revolut. Here are the steps to do so:

1. Open your YouTrip mobile app, and select the PayNow option
2. Save the YouTrip QR payment code, and head over to your LifeSG mobile app to transfer your credits via the QR code
3. Once the amount is reflected in your YouTrip app, head over to Revolut
4. In Revolut, register your YouTrip debit card to transfer to Revolut using the 'Add Money' function
5. Once transferred, simply transfer the money in Revolut back to your bank account!

However, if you do not have existing accounts for YouTrip and Revolut, you might need to wait a couple weeks for your application to be approved. If you can't wait that long, don't worry! You can always spend your credits at the participating list of merchants below for even more bonuses!

Full List of Merchants

Luckily for you, we have compiled a list of all participating merchants and their promotions for you in a handy table. Most of them have outlets at SAFRA centres all over Singapore, and some have higher benefits if you happen to be a SAFRA member as well!

Promotion with Singlife

Beyond just the list of stores and merchants holding promotions for NS55, Singlife with Aviva is also providing an exclusive offer to all MINDEF and MHA personnel in recognition of 55 years of National Service in Singapore.

All MINDEF and MHA personnel who download the Singlife app and sign up for a Singlife Account will receive a $20 e-voucher. They can then complete a portfolio review with a Singlife Relationship Consultant to receive an additional $35 in their Singlife Account.

Through the app, personnel can have a better view of their group insurance coverage. They can easily purchase, check or upgrade policies as well as seamlessly add dependents to their existing plans.

For a more comprehensive comparison with other life insurance policy providers, check out our detailed guide here.

Conclusion

Indeed, celebrating fifty-five years of National Service is a momentous occasion. Not only does it mark a significant milestone in Singapore’s independence, but it also serves to commemorate fifty-five years of service and contributions from our national servicemen and women.

With so many exciting new offers and promotions in store for you, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and download the LifeSG app to receive your vouchers!