Dear readers, NS55 digital credits have been rolled out to eligible Singaporeans, a majority of whom have served Singapore’s National Service. A $100 worth of Singapore dollars of digital credits was given as a token to eligible Singaporeans. When I first received notification on the NS55 digital credits, I proceeded to download the LifeSG app which was the mechanism where the digital credits would be disbursed.
However, I did not read the fine print that eligible Singaporeans will be notified when the digital credits are credited into their LifeSG account. This was why when I downloaded and logged into my LifeSG app for the first time, there were no NS55 digital credits then. It was only recently that I was informed via SMS that my $100 NS55 digital credits were credited.
While there was a list of merchants on NS55 website which would accept the NS55 digital credits, it was also noted in the website that the list was not exhaustive. On the app itself, it was stated that NS55 digital credits would be accepted by retailers who can accept payment via NETS or Paylah (if I get it correct) QR code.
I don’t really use QR code like Paylah as I prefer to use my credit card to chalk up reward points that can be converted to dollars and offset my credit card bills. Thus, soon after I received my NS55 digital credits, my thinking would try to use it wherever possible (i.e. if the merchant accepted it) else I would just use my credit card for payment.
My first use of NS55 credits went well at a major supermarket, chalking up some $20 over worth of groceries. Next, I went to order a takeaway from a hawker centre stall and to my surprise, the stall accepted the relevant QR code and my NS55 went through. I must share that I did not know whether these two merchants accept the QR code before payment since I seldom use QR code as payment.
My third attempt at NS55 credits at a toys store was not accepted. The cashier told me straight the store does not accept NS55 credits. And just recently, I tried to use my NS55 credits at a Kway Chap chain but it was not accepted as payment as only FAVE and Grab QR codes are accepted at the store.
However, I have perfectly no problem at all at the use of NS55 credits as the majority of supermarkets should accept the use. And after my supermarket and hawker centre visits, I have already used up almost half of the NS55 credits ($100 worth of credits while not a lot, is still very decent and appreciated in these days of high cost of living).
So, for those who have received your NS55 digital credits and have not used them, don’t wait! Use them now before you forget these credits amidst your busy schedule.
I end this post by saluting to all who have contributed to the national defence of Singapore! Including myself of course!