I am a grab driver, and I recently returned my vehicle since I am earning little income, or even making losses on some days. I have minimal qualifications and a family to feed. What should I do?

Maybe you should seek out for some temporary jobs first to cushion over this tight period. There are a lot new temporary jobs nowadays such as being a healthcare assistant to assist in Covid-19 duties. But this job has its own risk as well. Another alternative is temporarily work for the third party delivery platforms, these platforms are constantly hiring. Even though you might not be earning as much, but you have some immediate cash to tight over this crucial period. Wish you all the best.

Hi anon,

Very sorry to hear about your situation. Yes, it is very dire now. My own father is a taxi driver and I know the numbers. He's losing money most nights, so we are thinking of asking him to consider retirement, as he is already in his 60s. However, you have dependents and thus it is important that you be able to put food on the table at least.

There are several support schemes that may help you in the short term. Visit: https://www.supportgowhere.gov.sg/ and apply for those that are relevant.

You may wish to pay attention to:

Defer Tax Payment for Income Tax - Ease your taxes for the short term

Self-Employed Persons Income Relief Scheme (SIRS) - This will provide cash relief

Home Access Programme - Some relief at least

You will also be automatically included in some schemes such as:

Point-to-Point Support Package - Extended Special Relief Fund

Suspend Late Mortgage Payment Charges

Self-Employed Persons Income Relief Scheme (SIRS)

and

NTUC Care Fund Covid-19 - if you are an NTUC member

These will provide liquidity for short term needs. If needed, see if close friends or family are able to extend some assistance to you.

Clean up your finances as well by cutting out unnecessary spending. However, there is only so much that you can reduce, and thus getting a job, no matter how low the pay is, will at least stem the cash out flow, or even make it positive.

Please go to: https://www.wsg.gov.sg/SGUnited.html to see the options available to you. There will be a light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how far it seems right now. I wish you all the best in your search. Stay positive and stay strong!