Why keep your money in CPF?

When it comes to money (especially hard-earned-blood-sweat-and-tears-work-OT-go-home-to-sleep-and-bathe-only), it’s fully understandable why some Singaporeans wished that they could have full control of what they used their money for. Or at least, have a say in what they use their CPF money for, other than for housing or health purposes.

But, ultimately, if we ask ourselves – do we really know what the CPF was initially set-up for and what purpose it serves? The government first introduced CPF to enable working Singapore Citizens and PRs to set aside funds for retirement. It also addresses healthcare, home ownership, family protection and asset enhancement.

Sounds good, right? To be able to have assurance and peace of mind that you’ll have enough for yourself and your loved ones as you enter your golden years, fully knowing that your flat was fully paid for and that you have enough in your MediSave to pay your doctors’ appointments so that you’re in good enough shape to enjoy the fruits of your labour – music to my ears.

One way we can look at CPF, is that it’s a tool that we are lucky enough to have to safeguard our future. I believe that the same thought process is in play when we consider buying insurance. We are putting aside money every month, to be able to acknowledge the security that we are able to prepare ourselves for rainy days and stormy nights. Personally, I sure was glad that my partner and I were able to pay for the down payment of our first home when we decided to take the step. Not a single cent out of our pockets/banks, as we’ve spent some years building up the amount in our accounts. Shiok, right!

So why then, are we so against the very system that ensures us peace of mind in throughout our different life stages? If we truly, honestly, ask ourselves – when a lump of money falls onto our laps – is leisure not the first thing that comes across our minds because we feel like we deserved it? Will we even think about putting the amount aside for safekeeping – or will we always go back to the age-old mind-set that there’s still a looooooong time for us to save enough for when they day comes?

Think about it, won’t you? And be honest, when you answer.