Average Wages and Social Security Caps for Cities across China

March 27, 2012 Posted by China Briefing Reading Time: 3 minutes

Mar. 27 – Social security in China is a complex topic because although it is based upon guidelines issued by the central government, the specifics and administration of the system is managed at the local level. This is the only practical method in a country as diverse as China, as any rigid system defining specific contributions to be made and benefits receivable could not be expected to meet the needs of citizens in cities as diverse as Shanghai, Harbin, Chengdu and Hohhot, for example.

Monthly contributions to the social security system include pension, health insurance, maternity insurance, work-related injury insurance, unemployment insurance, however the exact employer and employee contribution rates can vary greatly depending on location. We explain each of these categories in detail here.

Calculations are determined from a base figure which, in most cities, is calculated as follows:

Social security base = Previous year’s total income ÷ 12

For new hires in many cities, the starting salary may be used as the social security base during the first year.

However, it is critical to note that the base figure for social security contributions is capped at 300 percent of the social average salary for the location in which the employee pays social security. Therefore, any employees earning more than this amount will actually pay a smaller percentage of their salary in social security contributions (employers will also have a smaller percentage burden).

The maximum base figures will generally be updated once per year for all employees. This often happens in May, and sometimes the government will also adjust the percentages to be contributed by employees and employers at this time.

The current average wage levels and maximum monthly social insurance contributions across China’s key cities can be found below. These were released in 2011 and are based on wage levels from the 2010 calender year. When these figures are updated based on the 2011 calendar year (possibly in May 2012), we will create an updated chart and post a link to the new article here.

Dezan Shira & Associates is a specialist foreign direct investment practice and can advise international companies investing in China on the country’s complete legal, tax and operational issues. The firm was established in 1992 and maintains 12 offices throughout China, in addition to practicing in Hong Kong, India, Vietnam and Singapore. The firm can advise on all matters of China HR, payroll and costs. Please contact the firm at china@dezshira.com or visit our web site at www.dezshira.com.

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