Serving National Service (NS) is a key duty for Singaporean males, and the government recognises this commitment through the NSman (Reservist) Relief. Whether you are a current or former NSman, or a family member supporting one, understanding this tax relief can help reduce your tax bill significantly.
Become Our Featured Tax Expert.
This premium ad space is reserved for one tax professional. Put your firm in the spotlight and reach qualified Singapore leads directly.
To claim this exclusive spot, contact us at [email protected].
📌 What Is the NSman (Reservist) Relief?
The NSman (Reservist) Relief is a personal income tax relief given to recognise the contributions of operationally ready NSmen who have performed National Service and their families. It is available to:
- Operationally Ready NSmen
- Wives of NSmen
- Parents of NSmen
✅ Who Qualifies?
For NSmen:
- Must have performed National Service under the Enlistment Act
- Received a monetary allowance for In-Camp Training (ICT) or other qualifying NS activities
- Be an operationally ready NSman during the year
For Wives and Parents:
- Must be a Singapore Citizen
- Related to the NSman (either spouse or parent)
- NSman must have performed qualifying NS duties during the year
💵 Relief Amounts
| Category | Full Amount |
|---|---|
| Self (Active NSman) | Up to S$5,000 |
| Self (Inactive NSman) | Up to S$3,000 |
| Wife | Up to S$750 |
| Parent | Up to S$750 |
*Exact relief amount depends on your NS status and whether you were called up for duties during the year.
📋 How to Claim the Relief
You don’t need to manually claim the NSman (Reservist) Relief. The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) automatically grants it based on records from the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
💡 Tax Planning Tips for NSmen & Families
- Combine With Other Reliefs: If eligible, you can also claim Spouse Relief, Parent Relief, and CPF Relief to reduce your taxable income further.
- Stay Updated: Relief amounts can change, so always check the latest IRAS announcements.
- Maximise Family Claims: If multiple family members qualify (e.g., both parents of an NSman), each can claim their own relief.
📌 Final Thoughts
The NSman (Reservist) Relief is a well-deserved recognition for the contributions of Singapore’s national servicemen and the families who support them. By understanding the qualifying criteria and relief amounts, you can ensure you get the maximum tax savings available.
