The levy for your helper is billed monthly and paid in arrears: the levy for one month is due by the 17th of the following month. If the 17th falls on a weekend or public holiday, the due date moves to the next working day. Knowing this rhythm makes it easy to plan your cash flow and avoid late-payment penalties.
How the monthly cycle works
- Start of the levy: for a first-time helper, MOM's guidance is that levy starts on the 5th day after arrival (counting the arrival day). For other helpers it starts the day after arrival.
- Bill available: your latest levy bill can be viewed online from the 3rd working day of each month.
- Due date: the 17th of the following month. The levy for May, for example, is due on 17 June.
- GIRO deduction: if you pay by GIRO, the amount is deducted on the due date. You can check the deduction status online about two working days later, or in your banking app.
- End of the levy: the levy stops when the Work Permit is cancelled or expires.
A simple employer calendar
- Early in the month: open the bill and check the helper's name, the rate (normal or concessionary) and the number of days charged.
- A few days before the 17th: make sure your GIRO account has enough funds by 6pm one working day before the deduction, and that any GIRO limit covers the bill.
- After the 17th: confirm the deduction went through. If it failed, pay the outstanding amount promptly.
- When your household changes: a new baby, an elderly parent moving in or a second helper can change your rate. MOM applies a new rate from the date it takes effect, so review your eligibility when circumstances change.
Paying without GIRO
GIRO is the most convenient option because it runs automatically. If you do not have a GIRO arrangement yet, MOM currently accepts PayNow QR for levy payments. Either way, keep the payment reference with your household records.
Why the calendar matters
Late or missed payments attract a late-payment penalty, and MOM states that missing levy payments for two consecutive months can lead to the helper's Work Permit being revoked and to restrictions on future applications. A reminder a few days before the 17th is usually all it takes to stay on track.
For rates, concessions and eligibility, see our MDW levy and concession guide and MOM's paying levy page.
Keep one place for levy records
Save each month's bill and payment reference in the same folder as your helper's Work Permit and insurance documents. If a charge ever looks wrong, you will have the history ready when you contact MOM.
Common questions
Is the levy paid in advance?
The levy is billed after the month it covers. The levy for one month is due by the 17th of the following month, so the first bill arrives after your helper has started.
What if the 17th is a public holiday?
Check the deduction date shown on your levy bill, which can shift around public holidays. Keeping funds in the account a few days early avoids any timing risk.
Last reviewed: September 2026. Procedures change, so confirm the current steps on mom.gov.sg or with your licensed employment agency.
