7 Things You Can Do with Singpass, Singapore’s Trusted Digital IC
First introduced in 1966 in an effort to enhance national security and streamline administrative processes, the national identification card (IC) is deeply embedded in Singapore’s history. Singpass, which is short for Singapore Personal Access, is the latest iteration of the IC. Rolled out in 2003, it is one of the key initiatives for realising the country’s Smart Nation vision. Over the years, Singpass has incorporated modern tools and features to enhance ease of access while strengthening the protection of personal information. One of these is the Singpass app, which was released in 2018 and is used by 3.5 million of Singapore’s 4.5 million residents. The continued updates to this digital IC underscore the nation’s commitment to leveraging technology as a means to promote convenient interactions between residents and government agencies.
If you already have a Singpass, what can you do with it? Here are some of the functionalities that you should explore while using the IC.
Utilise the Singpass Mobile App
One of the most convenient ways of maximising the functionality of your Singpass is by downloading its mobile app. The Singpass mobile app allows users to access services in a secure manner using their phones, and it does so without compromising ease of access. By using biometric features such as fingerprint or facial recognition for authentication, the Singpass app simplifies the login process while bolstering its security measures. This, in turn, makes it much easier and safer for Singpass users to access government e-services, view health records, and perform various transactions on the go. Employing a mobile app dedicated to enhancing digital IC accessibility and flexibility empowers the government to make its e-services more aligned with the lifestyle of the modern Singaporean.
Access Government e-Services
Singpass serves as Singapore’s secure authentication system, and having it gives you access to a plethora of government e-services. The IC can be used on everything from filing taxes and checking CPF (Central Provident Fund) balances to updating personal information. Choosing to file your income taxes electronically will enable you to save time and reduce the need for manual paperwork. Meanwhile, having the ability to instantly check your CPF balances through Singpass can empower you to easily plan your finances and monitor your retirement savings. In short, Singpass improves access to government e-services and streamlines various transactions. These capabilities make it a central tool promoting the public’s engagement with Singapore’s public services.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Since 2016, it has been mandatory for Singpass users to utilise Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). This additional layer of security ensures that only authorised users can access sensitive information or perform specific actions. To enable 2FA, you can follow the simple setup process provided by SingPass. Once activated, 2FA requires users to authenticate themselves through a secondary method, such as a one-time password sent to their registered mobile number. This feature significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access. As such, it can provide you with peace of mind when conducting transactions or accessing personal data online.
See Your Digital Health Records
Are you having issues keeping health-related information in one accessible yet secure space? You can leverage Singpass to access HealthHub, a mobile app that serves as a one-stop-shop access to all your personal health records. This health passport app can be used to see your vaccination history, medical prescriptions, and health records. It also enables you to check the health services available to you and make appointments with healthcare providers. This integration between SingPass and HealthHub streamlines your interactions with Singapore’s healthcare system. Using the HealthHub app will also make it easier for you to actively manage your health and stay informed about your medical history.
Store Important Records and Documents
In the same vein, SingPass can also be utilised to securely store and manage essential documents. The SingPass app allows users to record and store government correspondence, tax documents, and other vital files in a centralised and secure digital space. This feature eliminates the need for physical document storage and retrieval and provides a convenient and efficient way to access important information at the same time. If you have the Singpass app, you can easily retrieve and reference your documents and manage crucial paperwork in a more convenient manner.
Find Out About Education and Employment Services
SingPass is also commonly used for accessing education-related services. The digital IC can be utilised to verify your identity and check examination results, apply for educational grants, or even manage academic records. Moreover, it’s possible to use SingPass for various employment-related transactions, including updating employment information and accessing government job portals.
Stay Informed by Receiving Regular Updates
Keep abreast of the evolving features and services tied to SingPass by regularly checking for updates. The government continually enhances and expands SingPass functionalities to provide more services and features. You can stay informed through official announcements, newsletters, or notifications within the SingPass portal. By installing the Singpass app on your phone, you can take full advantage of the latest tools and services that are available to you.
Staying informed about the evolving services tied to SingPass will enable you to look forward to efficient, secure, and accessible interactions with the Singapore government and public services. Make sure you can maximise these benefits by registering for Singpass and downloading the Singpass mobile app on your phone.
