The Job Support Scheme (JSS) is a program implemented by the Singapore government to provide financial support to employers and help protect local jobs during economic downturns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme aims to help businesses retain their employees by subsidizing a portion of their employees’ wages.
Key features of the Job Support Scheme include:
Wage Subsidy: Under the JSS, the government provides wage subsidies to employers to retain their local employees. These subsidies are intended to offset a portion of the employee’s wages, thereby reducing the financial burden on businesses.
Coverage: The scheme initially targeted sectors severely impacted by the pandemic, such as aviation, tourism, and food services. However, as the pandemic evolved, the JSS was extended to cover a broader range of industries affected by economic disruptions.
Duration: The JSS has been implemented in multiple tranches, with varying levels of support and durations. Initially, it was introduced as a temporary measure during the height of the pandemic but has since been extended and modified to provide ongoing support to businesses as needed.
Enhancements: The government periodically reviews and adjusts the parameters of the JSS based on evolving economic conditions and the needs of businesses. This may include changes to subsidy rates, eligibility criteria, and the duration of support.