Maid Levy in Singapore Explained: How Much, Who Pays, and How to Get Concession

Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore comes with several responsibilities, and one of them is the monthly maid levy. While this fee isn’t part of your helper’s salary, it’s a cost you must account for. The good news? You may qualify for a lower rate through MOM’s levy concession scheme.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the helper levy—including how much you’ll pay, who qualifies for concessions, and how to manage this cost more efficiently. 

Current Helper Levy Rates (2025)

The amount you pay each month depends on your concession eligibility and how many helpers you hire:

Levy Type	Monthly Amount
Standard Levy (1st helper)	$300
Additional Helper Levy	$450
Concessionary Levy (capped at 2)	$60

If your household hires more than one domestic helper, each additional helper is charged $450/month, unless you qualify for the concession.

Who Is Eligible for the Levy Concession?

You may qualify for the $60/month concessionary rate if any of the following applies:

• You or your spouse is a Singapore citizen with a child under 16 living in the same household

• You or your spouse is a Singapore citizen aged 67 or older

• You're caring for a Singaporean with disabilities living in the same household

Note: To enjoy the $60 rate for two helpers, your household must have two qualifying family members (e.g. two children under 16, or one elderly parent and one disabled sibling). If there’s only one eligible family member, only one helper will receive the concession.

How to Apply for Levy Concession

Here’s how you can get started:

Automatically Applied If:

• You or your spouse meet the age/child/elderly criteria, and records are updated with ICA/MOM

Manual Application Needed If:

• You're applying under the Persons with Disabilities scheme

• Submit your application via MSF’s website

Once approved, the levy will be reduced in the following billing cycle.

When Does the Levy Start and Stop?

• Start: From the day your helper arrives in Singapore or is successfully transferred to your household

• Stop: Once the Work Permit is cancelled, expired, or your helper leaves Singapore permanently

To avoid unnecessary charges, cancel the permit promptly if your helper leaves.

What Happens if You Change Helpers?

If you change or transfer your helper, the levy cycle restarts. However, your concession status will usually carry over, unless your household eligibility has changed (e.g. your child turns 16).

How to Check and Pay Your Maid Levy

The maid levy is automatically deducted from your GIRO account every month, but it's still important to keep track of your levy status.

Here’s what you should do:

• Log into WP Online — This is MOM’s official portal for employers to manage their domestic helper’s Work Permit and levy details.

• Ensure your GIRO account has sufficient funds

• Set reminders to check deduction dates and amounts to avoid missed payments

Missed payments may result in penalties or suspension of your helper’s Work Permit.

Tips to Manage Levy Costs Efficiently

• Apply for concession early if you’re eligible

• Cancel the Work Permit immediately when your helper leaves

• Work with a maid agency in Singapore that understands the documentation process

Need Help Managing Your Helper Levy?

At Helpers Inc., we do more than matching employers with trusted helpers. We guide you through MOM requirements, assist with levy applications, and ensure a smooth hiring process from start to finish.

Explore our maid agency services or speak to our team today.