Employee Cost Calculator
If you pay someone KES 50,000, what does it actually cost you? Enter a gross salary and see every mandatory employer contribution — NSSF, pension, housing levy, and more — broken down instantly.
Country
Gross monthly salary per employee
Try: KES 80,000
Number of employees
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the true cost of hiring an employee in Kenya?
In Kenya, the total employer cost is typically 8.5–9.5% above the gross salary. On top of the gross salary, employers must pay: employer NSSF (6% of gross, capped at KES 5,940/month), Affordable Housing Levy (1.5% of gross), WIBA insurance (approximately 1% of gross, varies by industry), and a NITA levy of KES 50 per employee per month.
How much extra do employers pay in Nigeria beyond gross salary?
In Nigeria, employers pay a mandatory 10% pension contribution, plus ITF (1%), NSITF (1%), and ECA (1%) levies, totalling at least 13% above gross salary. If NHIS is included, employer contributions rise to approximately 23% above gross salary.
What are employer contributions in South Africa?
South Africa has relatively low mandatory employer contributions compared to other countries in this tool. Employers pay UIF (1% of remuneration, capped at ZAR 177.12/month), SDL (1% of payroll, if annual payroll exceeds ZAR 500,000), and COIDA (approximately 1% of gross, varying by industry risk). Total overhead is typically 2–4%.
What is SSNIT and how much do employers pay in Ghana?
SSNIT (Social Security and National Insurance Trust) is Ghana's mandatory pension scheme. Employers pay 13% of the employee's basic salary to SSNIT Tier 1. The basic salary is typically 60–70% of the gross package. Employees separately contribute 5.5% to Tier 1 and 5% to Tier 2.
Which country has the lowest employer contribution burden?
South Africa has the lowest statutory employer contribution burden among the countries covered, at approximately 2–4% above gross salary. Ethiopia is next at 11%, followed by Kenya at 8.5–9.5%. Nigeria has the highest potential burden at up to 23% if NHIS is included.
Does the annual cost calculation include bonuses or other benefits?
No. This calculator shows the cost of statutory contributions only, based on the gross monthly salary entered. It does not include discretionary bonuses, leave pay liability, medical aid contributions beyond statutory minimums, or other benefits. Your actual cost will be higher if you offer market-rate benefits packages.