HCC vs SBL: Choosing the Right Scheme for Your Training Claims

Under HCC, employers do not pay the training provider upfront. HRD Corp pays the approved course fee directly after claim approval. Only HRD Corp-registered training providers and accredited trainers may be used. Grant applications must be submitted at least one day before training starts, and up to 30 % upfront payment is available.

SBL is the exception route. Employers pay the provider first and then claim reimbursement. It allows internal trainers, vendors, associations, NGOs, government bodies and overseas providers (with conditions). Supporting documents for claims are stricter and usually require proof of payment. Both schemes follow the same ACM ceilings for fees and allowances, but the claim workflow and eligible trainers differ significantly.