Step 1 of 3
For OFWs and their families
Working abroad can build a family's future fast, or leave you starting over when the contract ends. The difference is usually a plan.
- Agree on a padala budget. Send a fixed amount for household needs, and agree on what it covers. Extra requests come from a separate, smaller buffer.
- Split every salary three ways: family support, your own savings, and goals like a house or business. Save in your own name, not only in someone else's account.
- Keep up your SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG contributions while abroad, so you keep your benefits and loan eligibility.
- Build a bigger emergency fund, up to 12 months, because contracts can end without warning.
- Plan your return from day one. Decide what income will replace your salary when you come home, and start building it now.
- Watch for scams that target OFWs, like guaranteed-return "investments" and fake job or visa offers.