INPS contributions for domestic workers: how payments work (2026)
In Italy, when you hire a housekeeper (colf), a caregiver (badante) or a babysitter, you must pay INPS social contributions in addition to salary. This guide explains how payments work, what to expect, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
INPS contributions are the employer’s responsibility. Payments are linked to pagoPA. From 2026, many employers will not receive paper letters anymore: keep your digital access organised.
1What are INPS contributions?
INPS is the Italian national social security system. When you employ a domestic worker, INPS contributions fund social security rights and insurance coverage. They are a normal and mandatory part of domestic work employment.
2Who pays them?
- The employer is responsible for paying INPS contributions correctly and on time.
- In practice, the total includes an employer’s part and a worker’s part (usually withheld in salary calculations).
3How do payments work (pagoPA)?
Payments are made through pagoPA, the official Italian payment system used by public administrations. You will typically find the payment details in your INPS domestic work area and then pay using pagoPA methods.
Do not rely on “paper letters” as your only reminder. In 2026 INPS is moving further into digital communication for domestic work contributions.
4What changes from 2026 (paper letters)
Many employers used to receive a paper letter at home with instructions and payment slips. From 2026, INPS is reducing paper communication and expects employers to manage payments digitally.
The best practice is simple: keep your access to INPS services ready (SPID / CIE / CNS) and check payments regularly.
5Best practices to avoid problems
| What to do | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Save your employer and worker details | It helps when checking contributions and payments. |
| Do not wait for paper reminders | Prevents late payments and stress. |
| Keep payment proofs | Useful if any issue arises later. |
| Ask for help early | Fixing problems later is always harder. |
6FAQ
Do I have to pay INPS contributions even for a few hours a week?
In general, domestic work employment includes INPS contributions. If you are unsure about your specific case, it is better to check early rather than risk irregular work.
What if I miss a payment?
Late payments may create additional costs or administrative issues. The safe approach is to organise your schedule and pay on time.
7Conclusion
INPS contributions are a key part of domestic work employment in Italy. With the move towards digital communication in 2026, the best advice is traditional and practical: keep documents and access organised, pay on time, and avoid improvising.