A decade-old property transaction leads to complications as a family is unable to claim their vouchers due to the previous owner’s inaction.
Despite purchasing their flat over a decade ago, a family of five residing along Bedok North Street 3 continues to face issues stemming from that transaction.
The residents reported they are unable to claim their Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers because the previous homeowner has already redeemed them, according to a report by Shin Min Daily News on Thursday (Jan 5).
In an interview with the Chinese evening daily, a resident identified only by his surname, Liu, explained that he bought the flat from a 50-year-old owner who had recently divorced and was moving back to his family. However, Liu stated that the former owner failed to update his address after vacating the premises, resulting in government correspondence still being sent to Liu’s home.
“It’s easy to forget to change your home address after moving out, but it’s hard to believe someone could forget for over 10 years,” remarked the 61-year-old.
‘We Feel So Angry and Helpless’
On Tuesday (Jan 3), the Community Development Council (CDC) and People’s Association (PA) announced that every Singaporean household is eligible to claim $300 in CDC vouchers, which can be used at supermarkets, hawker stalls, and local merchants. These vouchers are intended to alleviate the impact of inflation and the goods and services tax (GST) rate hike and are valid until December of this year.
After learning about the announcement, Liu and his wife attempted to claim their vouchers via Singpass around 7 PM, only to be met with an unexpected notification on the webpage.
Liu expressed frustration: “With the former flat owner not changing his address, he unknowingly became a family member, effectively taking away our CDC vouchers.
“We feel so angry and helpless since we have no means of contacting him.”
Following the incident, Liu filed a police report, and the CDC advised him to visit the Kaki Bukit Community Centre to apply for the vouchers.
“But I don’t know when I will receive them,” he lamented.
Those encountering similar issues as Liu are encouraged to visit their nearest community center to apply for the vouchers with their NRIC and supporting documents to verify their household status, as outlined on the CDC Vouchers Scheme website.
Fears of Harassment
While Liu’s voucher issue may be partially resolved, he expressed additional concerns regarding potential harassment if the previous homeowner had outstanding debts.
According to the National Registration Act, all identity card (IC) holders are required to report any change of address within 28 days of relocating, whether in Singapore or abroad.
Violators could face imprisonment for up to two years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.
