CPF Ordinary Account Interest Rate 2026
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
The CPF Ordinary Account (OA) interest rate in 2026 is 2.5% per annum, set as a legislated minimum floor. Interest is calculated daily and credited monthly, making your OA a government-backed savings component for housing, education, and investments.
What Is the CPF OA Interest Rate in 2026?
The CPF Ordinary Account pays a minimum 2.5% per annum — a legislated floor under the CPF Act. Members below 55 earn an additional 1% on the first S$20,000 of OA (effective 3.5%), subject to the S$60,000 combined CPF balance cap for extra interest. Interest is calculated daily on the closing balance and credited on 1 January each year.
OA vs SA and MA Rates (2026)
| Account | 2026 Rate |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Account (OA) | 2.5% p.a. (+ 1% on first S$20K) |
| Special Account (SA) | 4.0% p.a. |
| MediSave Account (MA) | 4.0% p.a. |
The SA and MA earn significantly more than the OA. An OA-to-SA transfer gives a 1.5% uplift but is irreversible — ensure you have enough OA for housing before transferring. See our CPF Investment Strategy guide.
Should You Invest OA via CPFIS?
The CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS) lets you invest OA savings in SGX-listed ETFs and unit trusts. The hurdle is real: you must beat the guaranteed 2.5% (plus 1% on first S$20,000) to justify the risk. Low-cost S-REIT ETFs or index ETFs have historically beaten this threshold over 10+ years. Check the Singapore REIT ETF Guide for options.
How to Maximise CPF OA Returns
Key strategies: (1) Transfer excess OA to SA for the 4% rate (irreversible, plan carefully). (2) Invest via CPFIS in diversified, low-cost ETFs. (3) Use the CPF OA/SA Allocation Calculator to model different scenarios. (4) Ensure voluntary top-ups to qualify for the maximum CPF top-up tax relief of S$8,000 per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CPF OA interest rate in 2026?
2.5% per annum, which is the legislated minimum floor. An additional 1% p.a. is paid on the first S$20,000 of OA for members below age 55.
Is CPF OA interest calculated daily?
Yes, interest is calculated on the daily closing balance. It is credited to your account on 1 January each year for the preceding year’s accrued interest.
Can I get more than 2.5% on my CPF OA?
Yes — the first S$20,000 of OA earns 3.5% effective (2.5% + 1% extra interest), subject to the combined S$60,000 CPF balance cap.
Should I transfer CPF OA to SA for higher interest?
An OA-to-SA transfer earns 1.5% more (4% vs 2.5%) and is irreversible. Ensure sufficient OA for housing before transferring. The long-term compounding benefit is significant for retirement savings.
Is the CPF OA interest rate guaranteed?
Yes — the 2.5% floor is legislated under the CPF Act and cannot fall below this level regardless of market interest rate movements.
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