To buy a new EC you generally need a Singapore Citizen in the household and gross monthly household income of S$16,000 or less (S$18,000 for sites whose tenders close on or after 24 Aug 2026). First-timers get priority, but second-timers can apply for a smaller share of units. Bank loans are capped by the 30% MSR and the 55% TDSR. New EC sites also carry a 10-year MOP: see the 2026 rules.
† marks a figure we have not confirmed yet. Check the official source before relying on it.
Eligibility and affordability calculator
The tests explained
- Income ceiling. Gross monthly household income must not exceed S$16,000 for ECs from sites tendered before 24 Aug 2026, which covers every EC on sale today. For sites whose tenders close on or after 24 Aug 2026, such as Canberra Drive, the ceiling is S$18,000. The 8 May 2026 rule changes left it unchanged.
- First-timer or second-timer. A first-timer has not taken a housing subsidy before. You do not have to be one to buy a new EC, but first-timers get priority. On sites tendered from 8 May 2026, 90% of units are reserved for first-timers during a 2-year window, which leaves second-timers 10%.
- MSR. The Mortgage Servicing Ratio caps property loan repayments at 30% of gross monthly income for ECs bought directly from developers.
- TDSR. Total debt repayments, including cars and cards, are capped at 55% of income.
Grants
First-timer EC buyers may qualify for the CPF Housing Grant, income-tiered and up to S$30,000 for ECs at the time of writing †. Confirm with an HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter before you commit. See the grants guide.
Sources to check
- HDB: flats, grants, loans and EC rules
- CPF Board: housing grants and CPF usage
- MAS: MSR and TDSR rules
Frequently asked questions
What is the EC income ceiling in 2026?
S$16,000 gross monthly household income for ECs from sites tendered before 24 Aug 2026, and S$18,000 for sites whose tenders close on or after that date (announced at the National Day Rally on 23 Aug 2026). Confirm on the HDB website.
Does the MSR apply to ECs?
Yes. The 30% Mortgage Servicing Ratio applies to bank loans for new EC purchases from developers.
Can I use CPF for an EC?
Yes. CPF Ordinary Account savings can be used for the downpayment and instalments, subject to CPF rules. See the CPF guide.