Maid Levy & Payment Info in Singapore | Jans Maid

Maid levy Singapore: what it is and how it works

This guide explains the maid levy Singapore requires from every MDW employer. First, you’ll see the current rates and who can get the concession. Next, we cover when the levy starts, how to pay by GIRO or PayNow. Finally, we spell out what happens if payment is late so you avoid penalties.

Base Rate (1st Helper) $300/month
Base Rate (2nd Helper) $450/month
Concessionary Rate $60/month

Who qualifies for the levy concession

To help families that need more support, the government offers a lower rate for eligible households. In short, you may qualify if someone in your home meets the criteria below. For example, many families with young children are eligible.
Maid levy Singapore concession for households with a child below 16

Children Below 16

Levy concession applies if your household includes a child under 16 years old.

Levy concession for seniors aged 65 and above

Elderly Aged 65+

You qualify if someone in your household is a Singapore citizen aged 65 or older.

Levy concession for persons with disabilities

Persons with Disabilities

Concession applies with a valid doctor’s certification showing care needs.

Maid levy Singapore visual: calendar showing 5th-day start and PayNow/GIRO options at a home desk
Illustration of maid levy start date and payment methods

When the maid levy starts and ways to pay

Levy starts: For first-time MDWs, it begins on the 5th day after arrival. Meanwhile, for transfers or returns, it begins the next day after joining.
Payment methods: Use GIRO for automatic monthly deduction; alternatively, pay once via PayNow QR.

Additionally, set up GIRO early to avoid missed payments. If you’re unsure, our consultants can explain how the maid levy in Singapore applies to your situation.

Maid levy due dates and late-payment penalties

Therefore, it’s important to track the monthly due date.

Reminder: The monthly maid levy must be paid by the 17th of each month. Missing the deadline can result in penalties and permit cancellation.
  • 2% late fee or minimum S$20 (whichever is higher)
  • Penalty charges up to 30% of the unpaid levy amount
  • Cancellation of your helper’s Work Permit
  • Restriction from applying for or renewing new Work Permits
  • Legal recovery action by MOM

Frequently Asked Questions

Maid levy basics

What is the maid levy in Singapore
The maid levy is a monthly fee required by MOM from employers of Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs) to regulate their employment.
When does maid levy payment start
For first-time helpers, the levy starts on the 5th calendar day after arrival. For others, it starts the next day.

Maid levy eligibility & concessions

Who qualifies for a concessionary maid levy rate
Families with children below 16, seniors above 65, or persons with disabilities may qualify for a lower levy of $60/month.
Can I get concessions for more than one helper
Concessions are typically one helper per eligible household member. Extra requests may require approval.

Maid levy payments & deadlines

How do I pay the maid levy
You can pay using GIRO for automatic monthly deduction, or make a one-time payment via PayNow QR.
When is the levy payment due
Levy is due on the 17th of each month for the previous month’s usage.

Penalties

What happens if I fail to pay the levy
Late payments incur a 2% fee or S$20 (whichever is higher). MOM may cancel the helper’s Work Permit.
For more details, see our Maid Hiring Guide and Maid Salary Guide.

How to Pay Your Maid Levy

Need Help Navigating the Maid Levy?

Plus, our consultants guide you on GIRO setup, MOM compliance, and smooth online processes. Everything is personal and fast, with WhatsApp support for instant answers.

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