- Singapore has no minimum wage and no compulsory increment for helpers
- A renewal raise of about $50 a month is common after a 2-year contract
- Filipino helpers renewing from 21 Oct 2025 need at least $650 (US$500) under Philippine rules
- Experienced Filipino helpers in 2026 often earn about $700 to $900
- Saying no is allowed, but a helper below market may ask for a transfer
Two years go by fast.
One evening your helper says, quite politely, that she'd like a raise if she renews.
Maybe she names a number. Maybe she mentions what her friends get.
Here's how to work out a fair number, and how to have the talk without anyone sulking for a week.
Do I Have to Give My Helper an Increment When I Renew?
No. MOM doesn't set a minimum wage or a compulsory raise for migrant domestic workers.
There is one big exception to know about.
So "no rule" doesn't always mean "no floor". Check her nationality first.
How Much Is a Normal Maid Salary Increment in Singapore?
Agency guides and employer forums land in a similar range.
- About $30 to $80 a month after a full 2-year contract
- $50 to $100 for a reliable helper caring for a baby or an elderly parent
- A rule of thumb on r/askSingapore: about 10% every 2-year contract
Then compare against what she could earn if she left.
Swipe left or right to see the full table on mobile.
| Nationality | New to Singapore | Experienced in Singapore |
|---|---|---|
| Filipino | $650 to $750 | $700 to $900 |
| Indonesian | $550 to $650 | $650 to $800+ |
| Myanmar | $500 to $600 | $600 to $750+ |
Indicative 2026 market ranges published by Singapore agencies and helper platforms. Basic salary only, before off-day pay. Your agency will know the live rate.
My Maid Wants $750 Because Her Friends Earn More. What Do I Do?
Ask her why, gently.
Sometimes she feels the work has grown. Sometimes it's just Sunday chatter at Lucky Plaza.
Her friends' numbers often hide details:
- Some include off-day pay for rest days worked
- Some care for a bedbound parent or a newborn
- Some have 5 or more years in Singapore
Compare like with like. If her ask fits the table above, it's fair. If not, show her why, kindly.
How Do I Decide What She Deserves?
Look back over the 2 years before you look at your budget.
How Do I Talk to My Helper About Her Pay Rise?
What Can I Offer If I Can't Afford a Big Raise?
Plenty of helpers value these as much as cash:
- An extra rest day a month
- A completion bonus at the end of the new contract
- Paying for a course, like cooking or caregiving
- Her home leave air ticket during the contract
A smaller raise plus one of these often feels generous. Just explain it clearly, so she doesn't feel shortchanged.
Should I Send My Helper Home If We Can't Agree?
Only as a last resort.
| Situation | Likely Better Move |
|---|---|
| Good helper, fair ask | Meet her, or meet her halfway with a perk |
| Good helper, ask way above market | Show her the market range and offer a fair number |
| Weak performance, any ask | Not renewing may be the honest choice |
If you part ways, you pay her flight home, unless she transfers to a new employer.
Add the agency fees and the settling-in months for someone new. A $50 raise often works out cheaper.
Final Thoughts
That polite evening question is a good sign.
She wants to stay... and she trusts you enough to ask.
P.S. If your helper asks for a raise and you ask your boss for one the same week, just know she probably prepared better.
