End of the month, Friends. Your helper has worked hard for 30 days, and now her family back home is waiting on that transfer. Here is how to pay her salary the MOM way, so nobody ends up arguing about money later.
- Pay her salary every month, within 7 days after the salary period ends.
- Pay at least the amount declared to MOM; the salary period can't exceed 1 month.
- If she asks for bank transfer, you must pay into her own account (not a joint account with you).
- Paying cash? Keep a record signed by both of you for every payment.
- Since 1 Jan 2019, you can't keep her salary, money, bank book or ATM card, even if she asks.
- No deductions for medical costs, repatriation or compulsory training.
When Must I Pay My Maid's Salary in Singapore?
MOM's rule is simple: pay every month, no later than 7 days after the last day of the salary period.
Owing her money is where most fights start. If the relationship sours or either side ends the contract early, unpaid months turn into a dispute fast... so clear her pay every month and let her manage it herself.
Should I Pay My Helper by Bank Transfer or Cash?
MOM encourages bank transfer, and it becomes compulsory the moment she asks for it.
Swipe left or right to see the full table on mobile.
| What you need | Bank transfer | Cash |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of payment | Automatic bank record | Written record, signed by both |
| If she requests it | You must use it | Not allowed once she asks for transfer |
| Missing the deadline | Set a recurring transfer | Depends on your memory |
| If MOM asks | Show bank statement | Must produce signed records |
Source: MOM, Paying the salary of a foreign domestic worker. Her account must not be a joint account with you.
How Do I Open a Bank Account for My Maid?
MOM points employers to the POSB Payroll Account, though she may also open one with another bank.
- The account is hers alone. She keeps the bank book and ATM card.
- Help her set up the banking app and teach her to check her balance (scams target helpers too).
- Want another bank? Check its own rules on opening and maintaining the account.
What Salary Deductions Are Allowed for a Maid in Singapore?
Very few. Her full salary means the full amount declared to MOM.
- Placement loan recovery, only if the amount, duration and method are written in the employment contract. See how maid loans work.
- Unpaid home leave: you don't have to pay her while she's on home leave, unless the contract says so.
- Medical check-ups and treatment
- Repatriation airfare
- Compulsory training
- Her meals and accommodation (your job as employer)
- "Fines" for breakages or mistakes. MOM advises talking it through instead of penalising her pay.
Whatever you deduct, write it down and get her to sign. It saves a lot of he-said-she-said later.
Can I Keep My Helper's Salary for Her?
No. From 1 January 2019, employers must not keep their helper's salary or any other money belonging to her, even at her own request.
- Don't hold her bank book or ATM card either.
- Worried she'll lose cash? MOM suggests giving her a locker so her money stays safe and in her hands.
- Helping her save is fine. Teach budgeting, or help her set up a separate savings account in her name.
What Should a Maid's Salary Record Include?
For cash payments, a simple monthly slip works. Keep one line per month with:
- Salary period (e.g. 1 to 31 Mar) and date paid
- Basic salary as declared to MOM
- Extras: rest day compensation, bonus, allowance
- Deductions, with the reason (e.g. loan instalment 3 of 6)
- Net amount, plus both signatures
How Do I Help My Maid Send Money Home?
- Paying into her bank account lets her remit online or at a licensed remittance shop on her rest day.
- Paying on the same date every month helps her family plan their bills back home.
- Only use remittance companies licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). You can check names on the MAS Financial Institutions Directory.
Should I Give My Maid a Raise or Bonus?
MOM suggests it, and it is good sense too.
- Periodic raises for good work and loyalty.
- Contract gratuity: a sum agreed upfront and paid when her contract with you ends.
- Any incentive works best when you both agree on it at the start. Put it in writing.
Looking for a helper you'll be happy to pay on time?
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Browse SearchmaidP.S. Set up the recurring transfer today. Your helper never forgets payday... and now you won't either.
