A Guide to HDB Assistance Scheme for Second-Timers (ASSIST)

What You Need to Know About the Assistance Scheme for Second-Timers

ASSIST is set up to provide housing priority to divorced and widowed parents who, because of their present status, would not normally qualify for other priority schemes. If you were previously married and availed of other priority schemes during that time, you’re now considered a second-timer. It is designed to give you a helping hand to secure a stable home and rebuild your life.

HDB sets aside up to 5% of 2-room Flexi flats and up to 10% of 3-room flats in Standard projects of BTO exercises for those eligible under ASSIST. This is part of the flats set aside for second-timer families, which is up to 15% of the non-senior public supply of 2-room Flexi flats, and up to 20% of the 3-room public flat supply.

What Are the Eligibility Conditions for the Assistance Scheme for Second-Timers?

If you are a divorced or widowed parent who wants to move to a new flat, you’re in luck. There are only two conditions you should meet to be eligible for the ASSIST, though it’s also best to refer to the official HDB website to learn any policy updates:

1. You Must be the Parent of a Minor

You must have at least one child in your legal custody, care, and control who is below 18 years old. The child should be either born out of a legal marriage or legally adopted to qualify.

2. You Must Not Have Acquired Any Interest in an HDB Flat or Private Residential Property After the Divorce or the Demise of Your Spouse

From the HDB website verbatim: “You must not have acquired any interest in an HDB flat or private residential property (except for your matrimonial flat/ property) after the date of divorce/separation or demise of your spouse.”

This condition is amended from the 2017 version, which reads, “the parent must not have owned or disposed of a flat or private residential property after the date of divorce or separation or the demise of the spouse.”

Research has found this previous version to be too stringent that very few of the now-single parents ended up qualified for the scheme. With the revised condition, you can now avail of ASSIST even though you have sold your matrimonial flat, which is what usually happens in the event of a divorce or the demise of a spouse.

A Safe Space for Healing

The Assistance Scheme for Second-Timers is a vital lifeline, offering a concrete step towards stability for you and your children. It provides the priority you need to build a secure foundation for your family’s future.

If you need further assistance in your journey to owning a new space, Ohmyhome is ready to serve you. Our MATCH services can pair you with the right seller, so you can get a home that addresses your and your child’s needs. But if you’re selling your flat, we can help you with a property valuation to land on a price that benefits you and your buyer.

Get in touch with our Super Agents and learn more about the other services we can offer you.