Cost of Hiring a Helper in Singapore 2026: Salary, Levy & Hidden Costs

When we started looking into hiring a helper, I thought the main cost was the salary — maybe $600-700/month. Then the agency quoted us $3,500 upfront. Then we learned about the $300 monthly levy. Then insurance, medical exams, food, and toiletries. By the time I added everything up, the real first-year cost was nearly double what I'd budgeted. Between salary, levy, agency fees, insurance, and day-to-day expenses, the total is almost always higher than the salary figure alone.

This guide breaks down every cost you'll face in 2026, so you can budget properly and avoid surprises.

> TL;DR — What You'll Actually Pay > > | Cost Component | Monthly | Annually | > |---|---|---| > | Helper salary | $550–$750 | $6,600–$9,000 | > | FDW levy (standard) | $300 | $3,600 | > | FDW levy (concessionary) | $60 | $720 | > | Food & toiletries | $250–$400 | $3,000–$4,800 | > | Medical insurance | – | $200–$500 | > | Medical exams (2x/year) | – | $100–$160 | > | Security bond insurance | – | $50–$80 | > | Total (concessionary levy) | ~$1,100–$1,500 | ~$13,000–$18,000 | > | Total (standard levy) | ~$1,350–$1,750 | ~$16,000–$21,000 | > > First-year setup costs (agency fees, SIP, etc.) add another $2,000–$5,000 on top.

How Much Is a Helper's Salary in Singapore in 2026?

The biggest recurring cost of hiring a helper in Singapore is the monthly salary. There's no government-mandated minimum wage for foreign domestic workers (FDWs), so salaries are market-driven and vary by nationality, experience, and skillset.

Here's what you can realistically expect to pay in 2026:

A few things that push salaries higher:

• Infant care experience (especially for newborns)
• Ability to cook specific cuisines
• Transfer helpers with strong track records
• Driving ability or willingness to do eldercare alongside childcare

Experienced helpers who've worked 4+ years in Singapore commonly ask for $700 and above. If you're hiring someone specifically for infant care plus household duties, expect to be at the higher end.

This is a significant household expense — for context, check out our full breakdown of raising a child in Singapore to see where helper costs fit into the bigger picture.

What Is the FDW Levy and How Much Is It in 2026?

The FDW levy is a monthly tax paid by employers to MOM (Ministry of Manpower). Think of it as the government's way of managing the foreign workforce. In 2026, the rates are:

• Standard levy: $300/month
• Concessionary levy: $60/month

That's a $240/month difference — or $2,880/year — so it's worth checking if you qualify.

Who Qualifies for the Concessionary Levy?

You get the lower $60/month rate if your household meets any one of these conditions:

• You have a child under 16 years old (including foster children)
• You live with an elderly family member aged 67 or above
• You or a household member has a disability

Most young families will qualify through the child condition alone. The concession is applied per qualifying condition, and you can only use each condition for one FDW.

If you're a new parent, you're likely eligible for other financial support too — our guide to government grants for new parents covers everything from Baby Bonus to CDA top-ups.

First-Year Setup Costs: Agency Fees, Insurance & More

The first year of hiring a helper is the most expensive because of one-time setup costs. Here's what to budget for:

Agency Fees

This is often the single largest upfront cost. Agency fees vary widely:

Agency fees typically cover recruitment, training, documentation, and work permit processing. Always ask for a full itemised breakdown before signing anything. Some agencies bundle in insurance and SIP; others charge separately.

Pro tip: Transfer helpers are usually cheaper to hire and come with the advantage of Singapore experience. The trade-off is a smaller pool to choose from.

Mandatory Insurance

Employers must purchase medical insurance for their FDW with a minimum coverage of $15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery. Policies typically cost:

• Basic plans: $200–$350/year
• Comprehensive plans (including outpatient): $350–$500/year

You'll also need a security bond of $5,000, which is required by MOM. Most employers purchase a security bond insurance guarantee instead of putting up cash — this costs around $50–$80/year. Much more manageable.

Settling-In Programme (SIP)

First-time FDWs coming to Singapore must attend the Settling-In Programme, a one-day orientation covering safety, employment rights, and living in Singapore. The cost is approximately $40–$75, paid by the employer.

Work Permit Application

MOM charges a $35 fee for the work permit application. Minor, but it's there.

Ongoing Monthly and Annual Costs of a Helper in Singapore

Beyond the salary and levy, here are the recurring costs that quietly add up:

Food and Daily Necessities

You're responsible for your helper's meals and basic toiletries. Most families either:

• Cook for the helper (included in household groceries) — roughly $200–$300/month in additional grocery costs
• Provide a food allowance — typically $250–$400/month

Either way, budget around $300/month as a reasonable middle ground.

Medical Check-Ups

MOM requires FDWs to undergo a six-monthly medical examination (SME). Each check-up costs approximately $50–$80 at approved clinics, so that's $100–$160/year.

You'll also want to budget for general medical visits — minor illnesses, dental issues, etc. While your insurance may cover some of this, out-of-pocket GP visits typically run $30–$60 each. Budget around $200–$400/year for general medical expenses.

Rest Days and Compensation

Under MOM regulations, helpers are entitled to one rest day per week. If your helper agrees to work on rest days (this must be mutual and documented), you need to pay at least one day's salary as compensation. At a $650/month salary, that works out to roughly $22/day.

Some families offer one rest day and one additional off day per month. Whatever you agree on, put it in writing.

Annual Return Airfare

You're generally expected to cover your helper's return airfare when her contract ends (usually every two years). Some families budget a portion each year — roughly $300–$500/year depending on the destination.

Home Leave Provisions

Many employment contracts include provisions for paid home leave. Budget for this if it's in your agreement.

Cost of a Helper vs Other Childcare Options

One question parents always ask: is a helper actually cheaper than other childcare options? Here's a realistic comparison:

The advantage of a helper is that she covers both childcare and household duties — cooking, cleaning, laundry, groceries. If you'd otherwise be paying for childcare plus a part-time cleaner, a helper can actually be more cost-effective.

That said, many families combine a helper with part-time preschool for the socialisation and structured learning — have a look at our preschool comparison guide if you're exploring that route.

If you're looking for ways to stretch your family budget further, WhyNotDeals is handy for finding family and household deals in Singapore.

How to Reduce the Cost of Hiring a Helper in Singapore

Here are practical ways to keep costs manageable:

1. Check your concessionary levy eligibility. This is the single biggest saving — $2,880/year. Don't leave it on the table.

2. Consider a transfer helper. Lower agency fees, and you can assess the helper's track record with her current employer. Many transfer helpers are available on MOM's online directory.

3. Compare agency fees. Get quotes from at least 3 agencies. Ask for a full itemised breakdown and compare what's included.

4. Shop around for insurance. Don't just accept your agency's bundled insurance. Compare plans directly — you can often find better coverage at a lower price.

5. Claim the Foreign Domestic Worker Levy Tax Relief. Working mothers can claim tax relief equal to twice the FDW levy paid in the preceding year. This is claimed through your annual tax filing with IRAS.

6. Budget from day one. Set aside the full monthly cost (salary + levy + food + buffer) so there are no surprises. At ParentLah, we always recommend treating helper costs as a fixed household expense, not a variable one.

For broader family financial planning, our guide on saving for your child's education can help you balance helper costs against other long-term priorities.

What Are Your Obligations as an Employer?

Hiring a helper isn't just a financial commitment — it's a legal one. As an employer, MOM requires you to:

• Provide adequate food and rest (3 meals a day, reasonable sleeping arrangements)
• Pay salary on time (within 7 days of the salary period)
• Provide one rest day per week (or compensation if mutually agreed to work)
• Bear the cost of medical treatment
• Not deploy your helper in any other household or for commercial work
• Ensure your helper's safety and well-being

Treat your helper fairly and respectfully — she's a person living far from home, caring for your family. A good working relationship benefits everyone, especially your kids. They notice how you treat people.

Frequently Overlooked Costs

A few things that catch first-time employers off guard:

• Replacement costs: If a helper leaves before her contract ends, you may need to pay agency fees again. Some agencies offer a warranty period (3–6 months) with free replacement.
• Repatriation costs: You're responsible for sending your helper home at the end of her contract.
• Public holiday pay: If your helper works on a gazetted public holiday, she's entitled to an extra day's salary.
• Phone and connectivity: Most helpers need a mobile phone and data plan. Budget $20–$30/month for a basic SIM plan.
• Room setup: If you're converting a room or space, factor in furniture, bedding, and a fan or air-conditioning access.

Is Hiring a Helper Worth It?

For many Singapore families — especially dual-income households with young children — a helper is genuinely life-changing. The cost is significant, but when you factor in the childcare, household management, and the mental load it takes off your plate, the value goes beyond dollars and cents.

The key is going in with eyes open. Budget for the real total cost, not just the salary. Account for first-year setup fees. And build in a buffer for unexpected expenses.

If you're weighing this against other flexible work arrangements or childcare combinations, take the time to crunch the numbers for your specific situation. There's no one-size-fits-all answer — only the right answer for your family.

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Have questions about helper costs or want to share your experience? ParentLah is here to help Singapore parents make informed decisions — no judgement, just practical advice.

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Sources

1. MOM — Hiring a Foreign Domestic Worker 2. MOM — Foreign Domestic Worker Levy 3. MOM — Employer Responsibilities for FDWs 4. IRAS — Foreign Domestic Worker Levy Tax Relief 5. MOM — Rest Days and Well-Being for FDWs