How to pay wages correctly in Italy: payslip, receipts and proof of payment
In domestic work, salary discussions are common — and many disputes start from a simple problem: the employer paid cash without records, or did not issue a proper payslip. The traditional and safest approach is simple: pay clearly, document everything.
Correct payment requires three things: payslip + proof of payment + clear records. It protects both employer and worker.
1Why documentation matters (especially for foreign employers)
Many foreign employers come from countries where domestic work is informal. In Italy, even domestic work should be managed properly: salary, entitlements, and contributions. Documentation is not bureaucracy — it is protection.
If there is a dispute years later, “I paid every month” is not enough. The employer must prove payments with payslips and evidence.
2The payslip (busta paga): what it is
The payslip is a monthly document showing: salary, hours, allowances, deductions (if any), and net amount due. It is the official “story” of the employment relationship.
- the period covered (month / dates);
- level / role and contractual details;
- hours or monthly salary;
- extra items (overtime, additional payments, allowances);
- leave, absences, sickness periods (when relevant);
- the net amount to be paid.
3Best payment methods: bank transfer is the safest
The best way to pay wages is a bank transfer. It automatically creates a traceable record: date, amount, and receiver.
Use bank transfer and write a clear reason such as: “Salary [Month/Year] domestic work”. It is simple, professional, and prevents disputes.
4What if you pay in cash?
Cash payments are risky. If you pay cash, you must have a signed receipt. Without a receipt, you may be unable to prove you paid.
Even if everything is fine today, problems can appear later. A simple signed receipt can save you from serious disputes.
Minimum requirement for a cash receipt
- Date
- Employee full name
- Amount received
- Reference month (“Salary for …”)
- Signature of the worker
5Keep a “salary folder”: the traditional method that works
Domestic work is personal, but good administration is essential. The best practice is to keep a small “salary folder” for each worker: digital or paper.
- monthly payslips;
- proof of payment (bank transfers) or signed receipts (cash);
- leave and sick leave records;
- TFR record (annual accrual);
- any important written communications.
6Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
| Mistake | Correct approach |
|---|---|
| Paying cash without any record | Use bank transfer, or always issue a signed receipt. |
| No payslips | Issue monthly payslips and keep copies. |
| Mixing “salary” and “extra payments” | Keep items separate and documented (overtime, bonuses, reimbursements). |
| Not tracking leave and sickness | Record absences and handle payroll correctly. |
7Conclusion
Paying wages correctly is not complicated: use payslips, prefer bank transfers, keep receipts when needed, and maintain simple records. This approach protects the employer, supports fairness, and prevents disputes.