Top 3 Questions First-Time Maid Employers Ask in Singapore (Answered)

Every week, we get calls from first-time employers who are nervous, confused, or just not sure where to start. So here are the 3 questions we hear most often, answered straight-up.

At a glance: the 3 questions every first-time employer asks

How much does a maid cost? $880–$1,830/month all-in plus $2,300–$4,000 setup. Agency fees? $1,000–$3,000. Salary? $550–$700. Levy? $60–$300. Rest days? Minimum one per month, weekly is the norm. Insurance? $15k+ medical cover required. Food? $200–$400/month. Trial? No official trial, but agency guarantees cover early issues. Paperwork? MOM contract, work permit, insurance, bond. Not working out? Use your replacement guarantee.

The 3 Questions, Answered

1. How much does it actually cost to hire a maid in Singapore? This is the number one question for a reason. The total first-year cost typically ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 all-in. The monthly levy is $300 (or $60 if you qualify for the concessionary rate for elderly or young children), plus salary, food, insurance and one-time setup fees. If you're just starting out, our guide for first-time employers lays out the full picture.

2. What does the MOM contract actually say? The standard MOM FDW contract covers the basics: salary, rest days, working hours (broadly defined), accommodation, insurance, and repatriation. The key things to know: you're required to provide adequate food or a food allowance (at least $250 per month), and the $5,000 security bond is a guarantee, not a fee. We translated the full MOM FDW contract into plain English if you want to read it without the legal jargon.

3. How do you choose the right helper? You don't just pick the first bio that looks reasonable. Start by writing down exactly what your household needs, then think about experience, nationality, language ability, and temperament. Some families prefer a helper who's great with kids; others need eldercare experience. Our full guide on how to choose the right domestic helper walks through this step by step.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire a maid in Singapore for the first time?

Hiring a maid costs $880–$1,830 per month all-in (salary, levy, food, insurance, phone) plus $2,300–$4,000 in one-time setup costs. Budget $985–$1,345/month for a typical family.

How much are maid agency fees in Singapore?

Agency service fees typically run $1,000–$3,000 for a new helper, covering placement, paperwork, insurance arrangement and post-placement support. Direct hiring is cheaper but you handle all MOM paperwork yourself.

What is the minimum salary for a first-time maid in Singapore?

Most new helpers earn $550–$700/month in 2026. The minimum salary threshold for new FDWs is around $600, varying by nationality and experience.

How many rest days must I give my maid?

MOM requires at least one rest day per month, but most Singapore families give weekly rest days. The contract you sign specifies the arrangement — make it clear from day one.

Do I need to pay the maid levy as a first-time employer?

Yes — the monthly FDW levy is $300 at the standard rate, or $60 concessionary if you're a Singapore citizen with a child under 16 or elderly dependents. Apply before your helper arrives.

What insurance must I buy for my maid?

MOM requires medical insurance with at least $15,000 coverage per year (many policies start ~$200–$420/year). Personal accident insurance is also required for new work permit holders.

How much food should I give my maid?

MOM requires adequate food — either she eats with the family or you give an allowance of $200–$400/month ($6–$8/day). Under-providing is a MOM violation.

Can I hire a maid on a trial basis?

There's no official 'trial' under MOM, but agencies offer transfer windows and replacement guarantees — typically 1–6 months depending on the agency contract. Get the replacement policy in writing.

What documents do I need to hire a maid in Singapore?

A valid work permit application, the MOM FDW contract, medical insurance, and a security bond. Your agency handles most of this — the contract is the one you must read and sign yourself.

What happens if my helper doesn't work out?

You can request a replacement (within the agency guarantee window) or arrange a transfer. Repatriation costs are the employer's responsibility under the contract, so act within the guarantee period.

Ready to find the help your home deserves? Check out our guide on which nationality suits you best.

Let us guide you home.

Contact iHome Agency:

📲 WhatsApp: 8042 6581

📜 EA License: 26C3446

📍 Punggol & Northshore Specialist