When many Singaporeans hear "NTUC," they think of the supermarket chain. However, NTUC, or the National Trades Union Congress, serves as the primary w
When many Singaporeans hear “NTUC,” they think of the supermarket chain. However, NTUC, or the National Trades Union Congress, serves as the primary workers’ union in Singapore. With its unique role as a partner to both the government and employers, NTUC strives to enhance job stability, provide workplace resources, and support workers’ rights through various initiatives and benefits.
1. What Does NTUC Membership Offer?
NTUC brings together over 70 unions, offering two membership tiers:
Ordinary Branch: For those whose workplaces are unionized, allowing NTUC representation in wage discussions and workplace issues, plus social benefits like FairPrice rebates, NTUC LinkPoints, and access to chalets.
General Branch: For non-unionized workplaces, offering social benefits, though without wage negotiation support.
NTUC membership provides both tangible perks—such as grocery rebates and LinkPoints for NTUC FairPrice—and professional support through programs like the Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP), free legal clinics, and employability services.
2. Membership Fees and Eligibility
Cost: S$9/month (Jan-Nov) and S$18 in December, totaling S$117 per year.
Eligibility: Open to those aged 16 and above, excluding employees of specific law enforcement bodies.
3. NTUC Link Rewards Programme
Members earn LinkPoints with every purchase at partner outlets like FairPrice and Unity Pharmacy, redeemable at 100 LinkPoints for $1 off purchases. These points can also be converted to miles and other loyalty programs.
4. Various NTUC Cards and Their Benefits
NTUC offers several cards under the Link Rewards Program, including the NTUC Link Credit Card and the Trust Link Credit Card, each providing specific savings on groceries, dining, and fuel.
5. NTUC Career Support and Training
The Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP) supports up to 50% of eligible course fees, with limits of up to S$250 yearly for members under 40, and up to S$500 for those aged 40+.
6. NTUC Workplace Support Services
Members can access NTUC’s Workplace Advisory for employment disputes and seek guidance on work issues, with additional dispute resolution support for Professionals, Managers, and Executives (PMEs).
7. Free Group Insurance Coverage
NTUC members under 65 receive up to S$40,000 of coverage under NTUC GIFT, which extends to family members and can be augmented with other NTUC Income insurance plans.
8. Annual Rebates and Dividends
NTUC members enjoy up to 4% rebates at participating outlets. Becoming an NTUC FairPrice member allows additional annual dividends on purchases, redeemable for just S$20 in shares and a $3 fee.
With membership perks spanning professional training, legal support, and everyday savings, NTUC offers valuable resources for Singapore’s workforce, especially during challenging economic times.
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