Your Rights at Work

1. Pay and the 13th Month

   Minimum wages are set by the regional wage board for your region. Rank-and-file employees (those who are not managers) who worked at least a month in the year get a 13th month pay by 24 December.

   • Calculator13th month pay calculator
   • Guide13th month pay

2. Leave

   After a year of service, most employees get at least five days of service incentive leave with pay. There is also maternity, paternity and solo parent leave.

   • GuideMaternity and paternity leave
   • GuideSolo Parent ID

3. SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG

   Your employer must register you and pay in both its share and your share of the contributions. Check your contributions online now and then.

   • GuideSSS benefits

4. Resigning

   An employee who resigns without a valid legal reason (a just cause) gives the employer written notice at least one month ahead.

   • TemplateResignation Letter

5. Final Pay and the Certificate of Employment

   Your final pay is generally released within 30 days of your last day, and a Certificate of Employment within three days of asking.

   • TemplateRequest for final pay and COE
   • TemplateCertificate of Employment
   • GuideFinal pay and COE

6. When There Is a Problem

   Most labor complaints start with a free 30-day process at DOLE where both sides try to settle (SEnA), before any case.

   • TemplateDemand Letter
   • GuideLabor complaints

Not legal advice. This is general information. For advice on your own situation, consult a lawyer. If you cannot afford one, the Public Attorney's Office (PAO) or an IBP legal aid office may help for free.

Government fees, rules and requirements change, so always check with the office concerned before you go. Last reviewed October 8, 2026.