A first-year budget for a helper is easier to manage when you list every cost category before you commit, then fill in the figures from your agency's quote and MOM's current pages. This template keeps the categories in the order you will meet them, so nothing surprises you in month three.
Before she arrives
- Employers' Orientation Programme (EOP): only for first-time employers, taken at least 2 working days before the Work Permit application.
- Agency service fee: from your licensed employment agency's written quote. Ask what is included, such as the insurance package or the Settling-in Programme.
- Security bond: required for non-Malaysian helpers and bought before arrival. MOM sets the bond amount; see our security bond guide.
- Medical and personal accident insurance: bought before arrival. MOM states that you cannot pass the cost on to your helper.
- Air ticket and transport for an overseas hire, if your agency quote does not include it.
First month
- Medical examination within 14 days of arrival.
- Settling-in Programme for first-time helpers, within 7 days of arrival excluding Sundays and public holidays.
- Work Permit issuance fee and any registration visit to MOM Services Centre.
- Household set-up: mattress, pillow, blanket, toiletries and a suitable sleeping space, which MOM lists as basic requirements.
Every month
- Salary: the amount declared to MOM, paid within 7 days of the end of each salary period.
- Levy: the normal rate or, if you qualify, the concessionary rate. Check your rate in our MDW levy and concession guide.
- Food: MOM asks employers to provide three meals a day.
- Rest-day compensation if she agrees to work on some rest days.
- Phone and data, if you have agreed to cover them.
Every six months and yearly
- Six-monthly medical examination (6ME).
- Medical bills: MOM makes employers responsible for all medical costs, so keep a buffer beyond the insurance.
- Insurance renewal and any bonus or salary review you plan.
- Home leave airfare if your contract includes it.
How to use the template
Put each line in a spreadsheet with three columns: the one-off cost, the monthly cost and the source of the figure. Use your agency's written quote and mom.gov.sg rather than forum posts. For typical cost ranges, see our maid cost overview.
Common budgeting mistakes
- Forgetting the months before the concession applies. If you expect the concessionary levy, budget the normal rate until the lower rate shows on your bill.
- Treating insurance as the full medical budget. Insurance has limits and co-payment, and routine or dental treatment that a doctor deems necessary is still the employer's cost.
- Leaving out replacement costs. If a placement ends early, you may pay some fees again. Read your agency's refund policy before you sign.
Review the budget after three months, when you know the real food, phone and utility costs for your household.
Common questions
What is usually the biggest cost after salary?
For most households it is the monthly levy, unless you qualify for the concessionary rate. Medical bills can be significant too, which is why a buffer helps.
Can any of these costs be recovered from the helper?
MOM does not allow you to pass on the costs of the security bond, insurance or medical care. Agree any other arrangement, such as a placement loan, clearly in writing.
Last reviewed: September 2026. Procedures change, so confirm the current steps on mom.gov.sg or with your licensed employment agency.
