When I first started working in Taiwan, overtime felt like a blessing. Double shifts? Sure. Weekend work? Why not, basta dagdag kita. But after two years on the line, I realized something: OT isn’t forever. And when it disappears, the reality hits hard. Here’s what I—and many OFWs like me—have learned firsthand.
Income Volatility Hits Hard
Relying on overtime makes your payslip look good—until orders drop and the hours vanish.
One month, you’re sending home more than usual. The next? You’re calculating every grocery item. I’ve seen friends panic when their take-home pay shrinks by half. Without a stable income baseline, we end up borrowing or cutting corners just to survive the month.
And here’s the catch: even when inflation slows, like in May 2025 when Taiwan’s headline inflation dropped to 1.55% from 2.03%, daily essentials don’t always feel cheaper. Price hikes for food, housing, and services may ease overall, but the gap left by missing OT can still hurt. Especially when you’re living paycheck to paycheck, even a stable economy can’t cushion unstable earnings.
Tip: Calculate your budget based only on your base pay—not your OT pay. Everything extra? Treat it as bonus savings. That way, when the factory slows down—or when inflation picks back up—you’re not caught off guard.
Health and Burnout Catch Up
You think you can power through. I did too.
The truth is, pushing too hard for overtime today can cost you more in hospital bills tomorrow. If you’re not sure how to access health services in Taiwan or want tips to stay strong throughout your contract, check out our guide: Staying Healthy in Taiwan: Insurance, Clinics, and Daily Wellness Tips. Knowing your options can mean the difference between bouncing back and breaking down.
Reminder: Health is part of your job. You can’t work OT if you’re too sick to stand. Check out
Stunted Professional Growth
OT eats up time—time you could’ve spent learning new skills.
I delayed enrolling in a free Mandarin class offered near our dorm. “Next month na lang,” I told myself. But months turned into a year. Now, others are moving into higher-paying roles because they speak the language or earned certifications. Me? I’m still stuck hoping for OT to make ends meet.
Reality Check: Factories evolve. Workers who grow with them stay relevant. The rest get left behind.
Personal and Family Life Suffers
Overtime isn’t just time away from rest—it’s time away from home, even when you’re already far.
I used to miss weekend video calls with my kids. “Pagod lang, anak,” I’d say. But they noticed. And when OT dried up, I realized I didn’t just lose income—I lost connection. Without emotional support, financial stress feels heavier.
Lesson: Money helps your family—but your presence and health matter just as much.
Weak Emergency Cushion
Here’s the trap: OT income feels like a lifeline, so we spend it like one.
I sent bigger remittances, bought small comforts, and skipped saving. But when our production line slowed down last winter, I had zero backup. Some OFWs turned to loan sharks. Others borrowed from roommates. It’s a cycle that’s hard to break once you’re in it.
Bottom Line: No savings = no safety net. Start small. Consistency is key.
What You Can Do Instead:
Here’s how I started turning things around (and how you can too):
Budget Based on Base Pay Only
Know exactly how much you earn without OT. That’s your real financial foundation.
Automate Savings
Set up a fixed amount (even just TWD 1,000) to go into a separate savings account every payday.
Upskill During Downtime
Take advantage of low seasons. Online classes in Mandarin, caregiving, or tech skills can boost your future job options.
Try a Side Hustle
Some OFWs earn extra from cooking, deliveries, or tutoring. Look for flexible gigs that don’t drain your energy.
Connect with Your Community
Join OFW groups, attend workshops, or ask your labor center for resources. Support and advice go a long way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is OT income in Taiwan guaranteed?
A: No. It depends on company orders and production needs. Many OFWs experience long stretches with little to no overtime.
Q: Are there laws protecting night shift workers or those with excessive OT?
A: Yes, Taiwan’s Labor Standards Act includes provisions on working hours, overtime pay, and rest days. However, enforcement varies by employer.
Q: How can I save money when my base pay is low?
A: Start small. Even saving TWD 500 monthly adds up. Track spending and look for small expenses you can cut consistently.
Q: What are some legit ways to upskill while working?
A: Platforms like Coursera, YouTube Learning, or local training centers (some partnered with TECO) offer part-time or flexible programs. Look for Filipino-friendly or free resources.
Q: Can I switch to a different job if OT disappears?
A: Possibly—but check your contract and work permit restrictions. Some jobs allow transfers after a certain period. Seek advice from the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) or your broker.
Final Thoughts
Overtime is a tool—not a plan.
It can help, but it shouldn’t be your whole strategy. Taiwan’s work landscape can change fast. The more prepared you are, the more you can adapt. If you stop chasing OT and start building something more stable, you’ll sleep better, worry less, and be ready when opportunities knock.