A new baby often means your household qualifies for the concessionary levy rate. For Singapore citizen children, MOM now grants the concession automatically in most cases, but it is worth checking that it has been applied.
Who qualifies
You can get the concessionary rate if a Singapore citizen child below 16 lives in your household. The concession applies to one helper per eligible person, capped at two helpers per household.
When it starts
- If you are the parent: the concession starts automatically from the child's date of birth.
- If you are not the parent (for example, a grandparent employer): it starts from the date you add the child as a household member on FDW eService.
- If the child recently became a citizen: MOM updates its records within a month and grants the concession automatically.
Checking your levy bill
MOM says you will see the change within your next two levy bills: the lower rate, plus adjustments backdated to the date you met the requirements. So a bill or two at the old rate after the birth is normal.
If the concession does not appear
- Wait for two levy bills after the birth or after adding the child.
- If the rate has still not changed, submit MOM's form to check why the concession for a child was not granted.
- MOM emails the outcome and next steps within 2 working days.
Planning ahead
- A newborn changes your helper's workload. Talk about night feeds, rest and rest days early; see our guide to night-time newborn care.
- If you plan a second helper later, remember that a concession for a second helper needs a second eligible person.
- Keep the birth certificate with your household records in case MOM asks.
For the full list of eligible persons, see our MDW levy and concession guide.
Official source: MOM's levy concession page.
Other household members who may qualify
Children are not the only route to the concession. MOM also recognises Singapore citizens aged 67 and above, some permanent residents aged 67 and above, and persons with disabilities who need help with at least one activity of daily living, subject to the conditions on MOM's page. If you already receive the concession for an elderly parent, a new baby can be the second eligible person you need for a second helper's concession.
For persons with disabilities, the steps include a recommendation from the Agency for Integrated Care, so allow a little extra time for that particular route.
Common questions
Do I need to apply for the concession after my baby is born?
If you are the parent and the child is a Singapore citizen, MOM grants it automatically from the birth date. Other employers add the child as a household member first.
Does the concession end when my child turns 16?
The child criterion covers citizens below 16, so check your bill around that birthday. Another eligible person, such as an elderly parent, may still qualify you.
Last reviewed: September 2026. Procedures change, so confirm the current steps on mom.gov.sg or with your licensed employment agency.
