HDB Flat Eligibility Letter Applications Received and Average Waiting Time for Approval
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the processing times and volume of HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter applications since 9 May 2023 compared to the previous HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) scheme. Mr Leong Mun Wai inquired about average waiting times and the resulting impact on the resale market. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee explained that the HFE letter provides a comprehensive assessment of eligibility for flats, grants, and loans, making direct comparisons with the narrower HLE letter unsuitable. He acknowledged that system glitches have caused some processing delays which HDB is resolving, though many resale buyers remain unaffected as they hold previously valid documentation. The Minister added that prospective buyers requiring urgent assistance should contact HDB directly to facilitate their applications.
Transcript
25 Mr Leong Mun Wai asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter applications have been received per week since its implementation on 9 May 2023, compared to the previous HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) letter scheme; (b) what are the average waiting times for approval of HFE applications, compared to HLE; and (c) how have any differences in the waiting times for approvals affected the resale market.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) implemented the HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter on 9 May 2023 to provide a one-stop service that informs prospective flat buyers of their eligibility to: (a) buy a new or resale flat; (b) receive Central Provident Fund Board (CPF) housing grants (and the corresponding grant amount if eligible); and (c) take up an HDB housing loan (and the corresponding loan amount if eligible).
In the past, prospective flat buyers would submit separate applications for their flat eligibility, CPF housing grant eligibility and the HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) letter. The HLE letter only provided flat buyers with an assessment of their HDB loan eligibility. Given the different scope and coverage between the HFE and the HLE, it would not be meaningful to compare the two.
We recognise that some prospective flat buyers have recently experienced longer processing times for their HFE applications due to system glitches. HDB is working hard to resolve this issue. Currently, the majority of resale flat buyers have obtained a valid Intent To Buy and HLE letter prior to 9 May 2023 and can proceed with their flat buying journey. They are not required to obtain an HFE letter. Prospective resale flat buyers who require an HFE letter urgently may approach HDB for assistance.