The Singapore Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) spoke to CNA on 9 July, saying that NSmen are free to use their $100 NS55 credits however they want.
MINDEF was speaking following the emergence of a viral TikTok video showing how the credits can be exchanged for cash at Sheng Siong’s Simple Teller Machines ($TM), via the PayNow option.
The digital credits were (will be) disbursed to eligible national servicemen throughout the month of July in batches, and are part of the NS55 Recognition Package to thank servicemen for their service.
MINDEF said that “National servicemen are free to decide how they would like to use the credits. Those who plan to encash them at merchants with such functions may wish to consider whether they might incur extra fees.”
They also added that some merchants may offer additional discounts if the $100 credits are used as they are instead of cash.