Your Malaysia salary & tax — explained

What you take home, why the first months are higher, and when you get money back

Your details

Gross pay before tax, incl. taxable allowances.
When you begin work in Malaysia.
A non-working spouse and children lower your monthly tax.
Number of children
Your settled take-home pay, each month
RM 0

What happens to your pay, month by month

The things people always ask

$What comes off my pay?

Two things, taken automatically before you're paid: income tax (PCB) and EPF (2%). Tax is the government's; EPF is your own retirement savings — refundable when you leave Malaysia for good.

EPF became mandatory for Employment Pass holders in Oct 2025 (your employer adds another 2% on top). Once a year you file a tax return; overpaid tax is refunded.

iCould it be a bit less?

This tool already factors in a spouse, children and EPF. Certain expenses (insurance, lifestyle, medical) can lower the tax a little more — sorted when you file.

It's a standard estimate so you know what to expect — for your exact figure, ask a tax advisor.

What you need to do

Resident rates: YA 2025 (LHDN), standard RM9,000 relief. Non-residents: flat 30%. EPF 2% (employee) mandatory for Employment Pass holders since Oct 2025 — savings, not tax. Residency via the 182-day rule incl. the cross-year bridge.
A friendly estimate to set expectations — not tax advice. Confirm your exact figures with LHDN or a tax advisor.