8 Things To Consider When Hiring A Kasambahay in 2024
Hiring a kasambahay, or domestic worker, in the Philippines involves more than just finding someone to help with household chores. This support can be a huge help to parents, allowing them to balance work, family life, and other responsibilities more effectively. In many cases, having a kasambahay can make a big difference in the quality of life and overall well-being of a family. It’s essential to understand the legal obligations, financial responsibilities, and the rights of your kasambahay to ensure a respectful and compliant working relationship. This comprehensive guide explores key considerations when hiring a kasambahay, providing valuable information for both employers and employees.
What is Kasambahay?
A kasambahay is a domestic worker who performs various household duties such as cleaning, cooking, childcare, and sometimes even managing household finances. Being a kasambahay The term “kasambahay” is derived from the Filipino words “kasama” (companion) and “bahay” (house), emphasizing the role of these workers as integral parts of the household.
In the Philippines, kasambahays play a crucial role in many households, and their work significantly contributes to the daily functioning of families. They can be live-in or live-out, depending on the agreement made with their employers.
Privileges of Kasambahay
Kasambahays in the Philippines are entitled to several privileges under the Kasambahay Law (Republic Act No. 10361), which was enacted to protect their rights and ensure fair treatment. These privileges include:
Fair Wages: Kasambahays are entitled to a minimum wage, which varies depending on their location and the nature of their employment. They must also receive their wages on time, typically at least once a month.
Rest Days: They are entitled to one rest day per week. This day should be designated in advance and respected by the employer.
Meal and Lodging: If the kasambahay is a live-in worker, the employer must provide adequate food and a safe, comfortable place to sleep.
Leave Benefits: Kasambahays are entitled to paid sick leave, vacation leave, and maternity leave (if applicable), under the same conditions as other workers.
Social Security: Employers are required to provide their kasambahays with Social Security System (SSS) coverage, which includes benefits for retirement, sickness, and other contingencies.
Health and Safety: Employers must ensure that their kasambahays work in a safe and healthy environment, adhering to basic occupational health and safety standards.
Fair Treatment: Kasambahays should be treated with respect and dignity, free from any form of abuse or harassment.
How Much is Kasambahay Minimum Wage 2024?
The minimum wage for kasambahays varies depending on the region. As of 2024, the minimum wage rates are structured as follows:
Metro Manila: PHP 6,000 to PHP 8,000 per month.
Cities and First-Class Municipalities: PHP 5,000 to PHP 6,500 per month.
Other Municipalities: PHP 4,000 to PHP 5,000 per month.
These rates can be adjusted periodically by local government units, so it’s important to check for the most current rates in your specific area.
Who Are Covered by the Kasambahay Law?
The Kasambahay Law covers all domestic workers, regardless of their employment status (live-in or live-out). It applies to:
Full-Time Domestic Workers: Those who work for more than eight hours a day and live with their employers.
Part-Time Domestic Workers: Those who work less than eight hours a day but still perform domestic tasks.
Nannies or Childcare Workers: Individuals specifically hired to care for children in the household.
Household Helpers: Those responsible for cleaning, cooking, and other household chores.
However, the law does not cover:
Household Workers Hired for Less Than Two Days a Week: Workers who are only hired for occasional or part-time duties.
Service Providers with Contractual Arrangements: Workers hired under specific contracts or agreements that fall outside the scope of domestic work.
How to Compute 13th Month Pay for Kasambahay
The 13th month pay is a mandatory benefit given to employees in the Philippines, including kasambahays. It is equivalent to one-twelfth of the total basic salary earned within the calendar year. To compute the 13th month pay for your kasambahay:
Calculate the Total Basic Salary: Add up all the monthly wages received by the kasambahay from January to December.
Divide by Twelve: Divide the total amount by 12 to determine the 13th month pay.
Example Calculation:
If a kasambahay earns PHP 5,000 per month, the total annual salary would be PHP 60,000 (PHP 5,000 x 12). The 13th month pay would be PHP 5,000 (PHP 60,000 ÷ 12).
How Much is the SSS Contribution for Kasambahay?
As of 2024, the Social Security System (SSS) contributions for kasambahays are based on their monthly salary. Both the employer and the kasambahay are required to contribute to the SSS fund. The contribution rates are:
Employer Contribution: 8.5% of the monthly salary credit.
Employee Contribution: 4.5% of the monthly salary credit.
Example Calculation:
If a kasambahay has a monthly salary of PHP 6,000, the SSS contributions would be:
Employer’s Share: PHP 510 (8.5% of PHP 6,000).
Employee’s Share: PHP 270 (4.5% of PHP 6,000).
How to Pay SSS Contribution for Kasambahay Online
Paying SSS contributions online simplifies the process and ensures timely payments. Follow these steps to pay SSS contributions for your kasambahay online:
Register on the SSS Website: Create an account or log in to the SSS online portal at SSS Official Website.
Generate PRN: Obtain a Payment Reference Number (PRN) from the portal, which is used for identifying your payment.
Fill Out Contribution Details: Enter the necessary details including the kasambahay’s salary and the applicable contribution rates.
Pay via Online Banking: Use the PRN to pay through online banking or accredited payment centers.
Ensure to keep a copy of the transaction receipt or confirmation for your records.
How to Compute Separation Pay for Kasambahay
Separation pay is given to a kasambahay when their employment is terminated under conditions that entitle them to this benefit. The computation is based on the length of service and the reason for separation.
Basic Computation:
Length of Service: Determine the number of years the kasambahay has worked for you.
Monthly Salary: Use the kasambahay’s final monthly salary.
The formula for computing separation pay is usually:
Separation Pay = (Monthly Salary) x (Years of Service)
Example Calculation:
If a kasambahay who has worked for 5 years and has a monthly salary of PHP 5,000, the separation pay would be:
Separation Pay = PHP 5,000 x 5 = PHP 25,000
Note: Specific provisions may apply depending on the reason for separation (e.g., resignation vs. termination).
Final Thoughts
Hiring a kasambahay in the Philippines involves careful consideration of their rights, privileges, and your obligations as an employer. Understanding the minimum wage, benefits such as 13th month pay, SSS contributions, and the proper procedures for payments and separations is essential for maintaining a fair and respectful working relationship.
By adhering to the Kasambahay Law and treating your domestic worker with dignity, you contribute to a positive work environment that benefits both parties. Always stay updated with the latest regulations and practices to ensure compliance and uphold the well-being of your kasambahay.
