Getting pay right from the first day makes for a better working relationship, and it is the law. Here is a plain-language summary for households.
The minimum wage
Since 1 March 2026 the national minimum wage is R30.23 an hour, and it applies to domestic workers in full. A few things to keep in mind:
- It is the minimum for every hour worked, not an average across the month.
- If someone works fewer than four hours on a day, they are paid for at least four hours.
- Live-in accommodation does not reduce the minimum you must pay.
As a guide, 40 hours a week at the minimum comes to about R5,240 a month. Three eight-hour days a week comes to about R3,144 a month. Use the wage calculator to check your own schedule.
UIF
If your domestic worker works more than 24 hours a month for you, you must:
- Register as an employer with the Unemployment Insurance Fund (you can do this on uFiling).
- Pay 1% of their monthly pay as your contribution.
- Deduct another 1% from their pay, and pay both over each month.
UIF gives your helper an income if they lose their job, and during maternity leave or illness. Our UIF guide walks through registration step by step.
Paperwork to keep
- A written agreement setting out the hours, pay, duties and leave. The hiring kit includes a contract guide you can prepare together.
- A payslip each payday showing the pay, the hours and any deductions, including UIF.
- A record of leave taken.
This is general guidance.
For your own situation, check the official sources at labour.gov.za or speak to an adviser.
Hiring through Helpers Connect
Every job advert on Helpers Connect shows its pay and must meet the minimum wage before it can go live. Find a helper, or post a job with the pay checked as you type.