Facebook seems to be an increasingly popular forum for both people and government agencies to communicate these days.

Have to work as Grab driver despite age

On Sep. 24, Facebook user Clifford Theseira, 72, aired his woes about his monthly payout from the Central Provident Fund (CPF).

In his Facebook post, he mentioned that he was only receiving S$575 per month, and was working as a Grab driver as the payout was not enough for him and his wife to survive.

He also attached a letter from the CPF Board, informing Theseira that he needed to make his MediSave contributions, which amounted to S$595.

If he did not pay the amount stipulated, he would not be able to renew his driving license, and risk affecting his CPF payouts as well.

CPF replies - with another Facebook post

In response to Theseira's complaint, the CPF Board responded on Oct. 27, with another Facebook post, claiming to show the bigger picture.

According to the CPF Board's post, Theseira had already withdrawn roughly S$140,000 from his CPF since turning 55.

If he had not withdrawn that amount, he could have been receiving a monthly payout of more than S$1,000.

That would be about double his current monthly payout, or more.

They also added that Theseira co-owns a 5-room HDB flat, which has already been fully paid up.

Regarding the complaint about his MediSave contribution, the CPF Board explained in their post that Theseira could contribute his MediSave monthly via GIRO, which would amount to less than one per cent of his monthly income.

As long as he made regular CPF contributions like all other workers, he would not have an issue renewing his license when required.

Is member of Pioneer Generation

The CPF Board added that Theseira has been a member of the Pioneer Generation, and has received many benefits from the package.

"In 2019 alone, he has received MediSave top-ups and special premium subsidies for MediShield Life of about S$600. He has also received Workfare payouts of over S$2,300 in cash and CPF."

Top image via Clifford Theseira/FB, CPF Board/FB