What is the Joint Singles Scheme Operator-Run (JSS-OR)?
The Housing and Development Board (HDB) announced the introduction of the Joint Singles Scheme Operator-Run (JSS-OR) on December 17, 2021.
This program aims to assist low-income singles who require rental housing by allowing them to secure rental flats without needing a flatmate.
Instead, individuals can apply as single applicants, and the HDB-assigned operator will match them with a suitable flatmate based on gender, age, ethnicity, and living habits. This matching process increases the likelihood of finding a compatible living arrangement.
Recommended article: Operator-run HDB rental scheme for joint singles – take it or leave it?
Joint Singles Scheme (JSS) vs Joint Singles Scheme Operator-Run (JSS-OR) – what is the difference?
The JSS-OR offers an alternative to the existing Joint Singles Scheme (JSS), which enables two or more singles to jointly apply for a public rental flat. Alternatively, individuals can seek assistance from the HDB to find a flatmate by accessing a list of other single individuals searching for one.
While most JSS applicants can find a flatmate and live harmoniously, some face challenges. The HDB JSS-OR now provides singles with an additional option.
Under this programme, HDB offers a combination of 1 and 2-room flats. These flats will have partitions installed to accommodate two or three occupants to address privacy concerns.
Moreover, the flats come with basic household furnishings and appliances, including wardrobes, a water heater, a washing machine, and a refrigerator, allowing tenants to move in swiftly. An operator will facilitate introductions between tenants and intervene to resolve any possible disagreements.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Joint Singles Scheme Operator-Run (JSS-OR)?
The eligibility criteria of the (JSS-OR) are the same as the JSS and are as follows:
- You must be a Singapore Citizen who is either:
- Unmarried and at least 35 years old
- Divorced or legally separated from a spouse, with appropriate legal documents, and at least 35 years old
- Widowed or orphaned individuals and at least 21 years old
- You will not qualify for them if any of your children can provide housing for you in their own homes or if they have the financial means to offer alternative housing options.
- You must not have a total household gross income exceeding S$1,500 monthly. You can still submit an application to HDB for review if it exceeds this amount. HDB will take into account whether you have other available housing options.
Additionally, if you have previously owned any property, HDB will consider the proceeds from selling your last property when assessing your housing budget.
- You should not own or have any estate or interest in the following properties at the time of application:
- HDB flat or Design, Build & Sell Scheme (DBSS) flat
- Local or overseas private property, including houses, buildings, or land, whether residential or otherwise
- Executive Condominium (EC)
- You should not currently be tenants or essential occupants of an HDB flat.
The information provided was accurate at the time of publication. For the latest changes and updates, head over to the official website.
