13th Month Pay Computation and Rules

Created: Jan 05, 2026 Updated: Jan 05, 2026

13th Month Pay (PD 851)

All rank-and-file employees are entitled to 13th month pay regardless of employment status.

Computation:

13th Month Pay = Total Basic Salary Earned ÷ 12

Key Rules:

  • Deadline: Must be paid on or before December 24
  • Coverage: All rank-and-file employees (regardless of position, designation, or employment status)
  • Pro-rated: For employees who worked less than 12 months

What is included in Basic Salary?

  • Regular wage or salary
  • COLA (if integrated into basic pay)

What is NOT included?

  • Overtime pay
  • Holiday pay
  • Night differential
  • Allowances
  • Commissions (variable, not fixed)

Tax Exemption:

13th month pay up to ₱90,000 is tax-exempt (combined with other benefits)

Legal Basis

Presidential Decree No. 851