Written answer by Ministry of National Development on appeals for unsuccessful applications for HDB Flat Eligibility letters

May 7, 2024

Question No: 5984

Question by: Mr Gan Thiam Poh

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) how many appeals have been received for unsuccessful applications for HDB Flat Eligibility letters; (b) what have been the common reasons for the unsuccessful applications; and (c) how many of such appeals have been approved subsequently.

Answer:

The HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter streamlines the flat buying process for flat buyers, by integrating the eligibility assessment for HDB flat purchases, housing grants, and HDB housing loans, into a single application. This gives buyers greater clarity on their eligibility for new or resale flats, housing budget, and financing options upfront.  

From 9 May 2023 to 31 March 2024, HDB has received about 5,300 appeals from those who were unable to obtain an HFE letter. 

These applicants were not eligible to buy any HDB flat, whether new or resale, as they were unable to meet the eligibility conditions for flat purchase, such as the minimum citizenship requirement, minimum age, and non-ownership of private residential property in the preceding 15 months.  About one in eight appeals were approved due to changes in circumstances or extenuating factors.