The average Per Capita Monthly Household Income (PCHI) is the average gross household income for the last 12 months divided by the total number of household members (including the applicant).

"Gross income" refers to the gross wages or salaries before deduction of CPF contributions and personal income tax. It comprises basic wages, overtime pay, commissions, tips, other allowances and bonuses. For self-employed persons, gross income refers to profits from their business, trade or profession (i.e. total receipts less business expenses incurred) before the deduction of income tax.

"Household members" refers to persons related by blood, marriage and/or legal adoption and have the same residential address reflected on the NRIC as the applicant for legal aid. Your spouse's income may be disregarded in certain situations e.g. applications for divorce proceedings.

The MinLaw Services Centre will calculate the average PCHI as part of the means test, based on the supporting documents provided by the applicant for legal aid.