• One is considered to be self-employed if they own a business and can make profits or suffer losses. Freelancers are also considered to be selfemployed if they engage in contract work for others, such as providing some form of service.
• When filing tax returns, self-employed people may apply for tax deductions on their business expenses or employee medical expenses.
• MediSave is the first layer of medical protection in Singapore. In July 1992, the Central Provident Fund Board (CPF Board) launched the Self-Employed MediSave Contribution scheme to ensure that self-employed personnel are able to pay for their medical expenses. Self-employed personnel who earn a yearly net business income of more than S$6,000 will need to contribute to MediSave.

Many activities were put on hold due to the pandemic. This in turn affected business in certain industries, and especially impacted those who were self-employed in industries such as tourism and the performing arts. The self-employed persons who were interviewed said that they welcomed the expansion of the criteria for the Self-Employed Person Income Relief Scheme (SIRS). (Lianhe Zaobao, 7/4/2020)

• In general, a large portion of an employee’s medical fees is paid by their employer. Employers are also liable to compensate their employees for work-related injuries and contribute to their CPF. Self-employed persons have to pay for their own CPF.