BCRS Implementation – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS)?

The Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) is a Singapore government initiative that introduces a small refundable charge on certain beverage containers to encourage recycling and reduce packaging waste. Consumers can return eligible containers to designated collection points to receive their refund. The BCRS feature will be introduced in TabSquare systems to support the official rollout starting 1 April 2026.

2. How much is the BCRS charge?

The BCRS charge is SGD 0.10 per eligible beverage container.

3. Is the BCRS charge subject to tax or service charge?

No. The BCRS deposit is a refundable charge added on top of the beverage price. It is tax-exempt and service charge-exempt, and will appear separately from your normal item pricing.

Read more: https://www.iras.gov.sg/taxes/goods-services-tax-%28gst%29/basics-of-gst/gst-and-bcrs-deposit 

4. How will the charge appear in orders or receipts?

The charge will appear as a separate line item in the order summary and receipt so that diners can clearly see the additional BCRS charge applied to eligible items.

5. How does TabSquare handle BCRS Charge?

TabSquare is introducing a BCRS item-level charge feature in the TabSquare ordering system. 

Once enabled at the item level in eCMS:

• A flat $0.10 charge is automatically applied per applicable item.

• The charge is calculated per quantity ordered.

• The BCRS amount is exempt from tax and service charge.

• The system will pass the BCRS field to your POS (subject to integration readiness).

6. Will this charge apply to all menu items?

No. The BCRS charge only applies to eligible beverage items that fall under the scheme. You can configure the applicable items at the item level in eCMS.

7 How POS integration with TabSquare will comply with BCRS?

Your POS system must be able to:

• Read the new data field from TabSquare's order API.

• Map the charge accurately in your backend reports and receipt configuration.

• Display the BCRS charge as a separate line item on printed receipts.

• Treat the charge as tax-exempt and service charge-exempt in all calculations.

⚠️  Please share this update with your POS vendor immediately so they can begin the necessary integration work ahead of the 1 April 2026 deadline.

8. Will this affect existing menu prices?

No. The BCRS charge is separate from your menu pricing and does not change the base price of your items. It is simply an additional regulatory charge applied where applicable.

9. Does this apply to all SmartQR, Smart Connect and Kiosk orders?

Yes. The BCRS charge will be automatically calculated and applied to orders placed through TabSquare SmartQR, Smart Connect and Kiosk ordering systems.

10. Will diners see this charge before payment?

Yes. The BCRS charge will be clearly displayed during checkout so that customers can see the additional regulatory charge before completing payment.

Where can I learn more about the regulation?