Should you use CDC Vouchers on your first date? Here’s what people think

Swipe left or right on CDC vouchers? Let’s debunk this very thought-provoking first-date dilemma

By Latisha Sonia Shaymentyran - 13 Mar 2025

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In Singapore, where the cost of living is constantly rising, CDC (Community Development Council) vouchers have become a helpful financial perk. They help households offset daily expenses, and they support local businesses while easing financial commitments. With Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s Budget 2025 announcement, every Singaporean household will receive $800 worth of CDC vouchers.

But here’s a debate-worthy scenario: Would you pay with CDC vouchers on your first date? Does it show financial prudence, or does it scream cheapo? Should love and romance come with a price tag, or is this just the reality of dating in an expensive city?

We asked Singaporeans, from Gen Zs to millennials and Gen Xs on their hot take.

Where can CDC vouchers be used?

From hawker centres to heartland shops and even cafes, you’re likely to still be able to take your date somewhere cosy with a decent ambience — besides, who doesn’t love a cute brunch at a hippie cafe?

With that said, these vouchers do come with limitations. You can’t use them at fancy hotel buffets, omakase spots, or high-end steakhouses. While some people might be fine with a humble meal at a hawker centre, others may expect a bit more effort, and money, especially on a first date.

So, the big question is: Does the mode of payment matter?

First dates are all about first impressions. Whether we like it or not, many people subconsciously evaluate everything — the venue, the get-up, the bill… oh, and of course the meaningful conversations you have with your date.

“Using CDC vouchers is perfectly fine as long as the person using it is honest enough to tell. At the end of the day, dates are about time spent together, not about the money or mode of payment. Wanna pay with CDC vouchers? Go ahead. I 100% support. But be honest [about it]! Let’s not start the relationship with lies.”

21-year-old, Natasha Lavanya D/O Brian

On the contrary, 22-year-old, Kelly says that discretion is important.

“Of course, but discretely… no matter what people say, people will always judge you on first dates.”

22-year-old, Kelly

Meanwhile, 56-year-old, Bhavani Sinnadurai believes using vouchers can send different signals.

“It might show that you’re [either] financially savvy, or that you’re struggling financially. First impressions matter, so it’s a bit tricky.”

56-year-old, Bhavani Sinnadurai

Does it matter who pays first?

Traditionally, men have been expected to pay on first dates. Some feel that using vouchers removes the financial burden of spending too much, while others worry that it looks bad on them.

26-year-old, Darren Lai, who makes it a point to pay on first dates, sees the appeal.

“Having paid for many first dates in the name of chivalry, I would have been so happy knowing I could enjoy getting to know the person without that little T&C of knowing the bill at the end would be footed by me.”

26-year-old, Darren Lai

But 41-year-old, Sofia Ritz discusses that financial stability is important when dating.

“If a person is ready to date, they should either be financially stable or financially responsible enough to have savings. If they’re using vouchers, I’d wonder if they’re tight on cash, meaning they aren’t good with saving, which is going to be very important when deciding if you want to be in a relationship with someone.”

41-year-old, Sofia Ritz

24-year-old, Lee Ting Yee Chelza comments that the media’s romanticism of quite literally everything has a dire impact on first-date expectations.

“I think people are embarrassed not because they’re inherently ashamed, but because media and pop culture have given us this idea of love and romance and relationships that isn’t always so realistic.”

24-year-old, Lee Ting Yee Chelza

Let’s talk perks

1. Financial prudence

23-year-old, Nadine Panti supports the idea that saving money is a green flag, not a red one.

“Yes, omg! As a PR, the government gave the privilege to use their money, and I know some people might think that you’re a cheapo by not spending your own money, but who am I to judge? As long as you have free money, am I right?”

23-year-old, Nadine Panti

2. It shows your authentic self

Some people think a guy paying with vouchers is a refreshing change — no pretence, just transparency. 21-year-old, Inaz even finds it attractive.

“If I go on a date and bro goes, ‘Hey, let’s use CDC vouchers,’ I will literally be like, ‘Omg, you’re my man. We are getting married because hello, money goals!’”

21-year-old, Inaz

31-year-old, Shobanu Scarlott voices a similar sentiment in that there really is no need for a facade.

“You shouldn’t be going out with someone if they look down on you for using CDC vouchers. More so, if it is the only thing [they] can afford at that time.”

31-year-old, Shobanu Scarlott

3. It can be a good conversation starter

45-year-old, Brian Ratnam thinks it could help with first-date jitters.

“By using CDC vouchers, you’re taking a proactive approach to eliminate one potential stressor. It allows you to focus on what really matters… genuine conversation, fun, and the chemistry between you and your date, rather than worrying about whether you’re spending too much or not enough.”

45-year-old, Brian Ratnam

Besides, 30-year-old, Jarren Low expresses the irony of bringing someone on a date only to use a CDC voucher at that.

“‘No worries, I’ll get this’, but instead of a flashy credit card it’s a CDC voucher.”

30-year-old, Jarren Low

Let’s talk drawbacks

1. It might be perceived as low-effort

25-year-old, Alanna shares that some might see it as a lack of effort or thoughtfulness.

“I would prefer an honest guy trying his best, even if he takes me to a hawker centre. But if he takes me to a fine dining place under the pretence he’s rich just to impress me or get in my pants? It’s a no for me.”

25-year-old, Alanna

2. It might give the wrong impression

29-year-old, Jazli Garcia feels that it might be embarrassing for a working adult.

“Honestly, I think it shouldn’t be used, especially on the first date. It does feel a bit ‘cheap’ to me. The meal feels free and it shows that he is just using something free instead of using his hard-earned money like he believes that his hard-earned money is better off being used on something or someone else.”

29-year-old, Jazli Garcia

Final thoughts?

“If the date reacts badly, then you’d know not to go on a second date with them.”

30-year-old, Jarren Low

To use or not to use?

At the end of the day, it really depends on a lot of factors. For instance, If both parties value financial prudence, then why not? But if first impressions are important, it might be better to save your CDC vouchers for another occasion.

Bottom line? Your connection should supersede the bill. A great date isn’t about how much is spent, but about whether there’s a reason to meet again.

Should you use CDC Vouchers on your first date? Here’s what people think

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Where can CDC vouchers be used?

The lingering social stigma

Does it matter who pays first?

Let’s talk perks

Let’s talk drawbacks

Final thoughts?

To use or not to use?

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