The Best Banking Options for Domestic Workers in South Africa (2025)

Why many domestic workers still prefer cash

Many domestic workers still get paid in cash or by send-money codes like FNB eWallet or Standard Bank Instant Money.
It’s legal, but not ideal.

Cash payments are risky, easy to lose, and leave no proof of income. Plus, workers miss out on interest, safety, and financial tools that only come with a proper bank account.

The most affordable bank accounts for domestic workers (2025)

1. TymeBank EveryDay Account

• Monthly fee: R0

• Card: Free debit card, no charge for card swipes

• ATM withdrawals: R10 per R1000 at Pick n Pay or Boxer stores

• Extras: No branch queues, everything done digitally
  💡 Great for workers who prefer mobile banking and low fees.

2. Bank Zero Account

• Monthly fee: R0

• Card swipes: Free

• ATM withdrawals: From R9 per R1000

• Other: Instant transfers between Bank Zero users, great app support
  💡 Ideal for anyone who wants simple, digital, no-frills banking.

3. Capitec Global One

• Monthly fee: R7

• ATM withdrawals: R9 per R1000

• Free features: App transfers, debit orders, and digital statements
  💡 Still the most popular low-cost bank in South Africa, with physical branches available.

4. FNB Easy PayU

• Monthly fee: R7.50

• Free features: Digital payments and card swipes

• ATM withdrawals: R8 per R1000
  💡 A solid option for workers already using FNB’s send-money services like eWallet.

5. Standard Bank MyMo

• Monthly fee: R7.50

• Card swipes: Free

• Transfers: Free between MyMo accounts via the app
  💡 A simple and reliable choice for those who prefer a traditional bank brand.

Bank Account Comparison (2025)

Why being banked matters

Getting banked opens more doors than just a debit card.

Safety – No need to carry large sums of cash or worry about theft.
Proof of income – Payslips and bank statements make it easier to rent a home, apply for a loan, or buy on credit.
Access to benefits – Earn interest, get SMS alerts, and access affordable funeral cover or savings tools.
Financial inclusion – A bank account is the first step toward long-term financial independence.

What employers can do

Encourage your domestic worker to open one of these low-cost accounts.
AskMandla can pay salaries directly into employee bank accounts, generate payslips, and ensure UIF compliance.

Even if the worker currently uses a cash code like eWallet, you can help them open an account at Capitec, TymeBank, or Bank Zero with only an ID and a cellphone number.

How AskMandla makes this simple

• Salaries are paid safely and on time

• Payslips are automatically generated

• UIF contributions are calculated correctly

• Workers receive proof of income and access to financial inclusion tools

💬 Chat to AskMandla on WhatsApp to learn how we can help your employee open an affordable account and get started the right way.

Key takeaway

Cash payments may feel convenient, but they limit opportunity.
Banking gives domestic workers dignity, security, and a path toward financial freedom.