
Got questions about ang bao rates and etiquette in Singapore? Here's how to navigate the red packet exchange during CNY.
If you’re on the receiving end, ang baos are something you look forward to during Chinese New Year (in addition to all that snacking on pineapple tarts and shopping for killer cheongsams). But if you’re part of the giving gang, you might find yourself fretting over everything. After all, nobody wants to commit a faux pas. Superstition has it that cheery vibes during the festive season can give you good fortune throughout the year! Don’t worry: whether you’re a CNY newbie or a seasoned Singaporean wading into the red packet exchange from a whole new perspective, here’s a beginner’s guide to ang bao rates and etiquette.
P.S. this is simply a general guide so you have an idea of what to expect; how much you give can vary depending on your family and your financial situation.
Ang bao rates and rules in Singapore: 2025 guide

1. Who gives and who gets ang baos?
Traditionally, red packets are handed out by married couples. They’re typically given to elders like grandparents and parents, as well as single adults and kids. Fun fact: some newlyweds get a free pass in their first year of marriage – but this depends on family traditions, so it’s best to double-check with your elders.
Here’s a thoughtful twist: if you’re single but want to bless your parents, you can give them an ang bao as a heartfelt way to show your love and appreciation during the festive season.
2. Why give ang baos?
Giving red packets is about spreading goodwill and wishing others good fortune. It’s a meaningful gesture, but don’t stress yourself out trying to hit a certain amount – it’s the thought that counts. Pro tip: resist the urge to tear open your ang bao in front of everyone. It’s considered bad manners to count cash in public. Instead, save the excitement for when you’re back home – privacy makes it all the sweeter!

3. How much should you give?
There’s no hard and fast rule for ang bao amounts – it depends on how close you are to the recipient. We’ve heard of red packets ranging anywhere from $8 to a whopping $1,888! Just remember: coins are a no-go.
As a general guide, your parents, in-laws, and grandparents should receive the most – think of it as a heartfelt thank-you for all their love and support. Anything above $200 is a good starting point, or you can aim for an auspicious figure like $888 if your budget allows.
For siblings and your own kids, $58 to $288 is a good range, while cousins, nieces, and nephews can get $18 to $58 – a sweet token of love and well wishes. And don’t forget to pack a few spare $6 or $8 ang baos for those surprise encounters with friends’ little ones or that distant relative you only see once a year.

4. Do you really have to give ang baos to everyone you meet?
No need to go overboard! Ang baos are a symbolic gesture, so stick to what feels right for your budget. That said, it’s always lovely to show appreciation to the people who make a difference in your daily life. Think of the security guard at your condo, the office janitor, your helper, or the hardworking migrant worker who keeps your HDB block spotless.
For these folks, red packets in the range of $8 to $50 are perfectly thoughtful. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to spread some festive cheer. Go ahead, share the love.

5. What’s the deal with fours and eights?
Here’s the lowdown: avoid any amount with the number four – it’s traditionally linked to death and bad luck. So steer clear of $4, $14, or $44 red packets unless you want some awkward stares. On the flip side, eight is the superstar of numbers! It’s considered super lucky because it sounds like “fa,” which means wealth in Chinese. That’s why amounts like $8, $18, or $88 are crowd favourites.
Oh, and one more tip: stick to even numbers for your ang baos. The Chinese believe “good things come in pairs,” so it’s an easy way to make your gesture extra auspicious!

6. Is it considered inauspicious if you don’t give fresh notes?
Fresh notes aren’t a must, but they’re preferred. If you can swing by the bank or certain ATMs early, you’ll snag those crisp bills before the queues grow (and trust us, they will). In Chinese tradition, new things symbolise fresh beginnings – think new clothes, a spotless home, and yes, shiny new notes for ang baos. It’s all about that “out with the old, in with the new” vibe during CNY.
P.S. Want to keep it eco-friendly? Skip the red packets and send e-ang baos through local banking apps instead. It’s a modern twist that’s kinder to the planet!
7. Is Chinese New Year just one big ang bao exchange?
Not at all, the Lunar New Year is so much more than red packets. It’s all about reconnecting with your family and loved ones. Picture this: hearty reunion dinners, lively lo hei lunches, cosy family steamboat sessions, and endless snacking while watching feng shui masters dish out zodiac forecasts on TV.
That said, there’s no denying the little thrill of giving and receiving ang baos – it’s part of the festive fun!

8. All that said, is there any way to escape the ang bao giving?
Well, you can go on a holiday during Lunar New Year… but people will remember you as the cheapskate person who’s perpetually overseas only on CNY, and do you really want that rep?
9. Don’t forget the finishing touches
When giving or receiving red packets, always use both hands – it’s a sign of respect. And don’t skimp on the well wishes. A cheerful “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (Happy new year) or “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (Wishing you prosperity) does the trick. Feeling fancy? Google a few extra festive phrases to impress your relatives. Bonus: they’ll come in handy during those yusheng tosses too – the higher you toss, the better the luck!
With this handy guide to ang bao etiquette and rates, you’ll be ready for Chinese New Year 2025 in no time!