Start-ups and small businesses can save on business costs like office rental by working from home.

For who?

• Small businesses who wish to operate a business from home.
  
  
• You must be the owner/tenant/authorised occupier of a residential property to qualify.

For what?

• To give would-be entrepreneurs the flexibility of conducting business from their homes to save on costs and build up their business.

How does it work?

• If the residential property is in a Housing & Development Board (HDB) flat, you need to apply to HDB.
  
  
• If the residential property is in a private home, then you need to apply to the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).
  
  
• You need to pay an administration fee (non-refundable) of S$20 for each application.

Things to note

• You should be aware that you must meet the:
  • Planning guidelines
    E.g. You can only have a maximum of 2 non-residents working from your home office.
    
    
  • Performance Criteria
    E.g. You must not display any advertisements or posters.
    
    
• Your business must also not be a disallowed ("negative") business, such as a maid agency or courier service.

  See:	Negative List

• Some businesses do not need to apply for this scheme (e.g. residents giving private tuition).

  See:	Small Business Guidelines

For more info

Home Office Scheme (HO)
Housing Development Board (HDB)
Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA)