Covid-19 Crisis: Having a difficulty paying your health insurance premiums? Apply for a reduction or exemption

On April 8th, 2020 the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare had an announcement about opening a system for residents to apply for a reduction or total exemption regarding health insurance payments.

This is the letter to the municipalities on April 8th.

Who can apply for a reduction or exemption?

There are 2 basic conditions to be eligible to apply.

First is if a member of your household has been tested positive to COVID-19 and is in critical condition or is deceased. 

Second is if your gross annual income for the year 2020 will decrease because of COVID-19. Under this, there are 3 criteria:

Criteria-1, Your (estimated) income this year will decrease by more than 30% compared to last year.

Criteria-2, Your (estimated) net income will be less than 10 million yen.

Criteria-3, If you have other sources of income aside from your business income (ex. real estate, stock dividend, etc.), the total income from these sources has to be less than 4 million yen.

Where can I inquire about this?

For general information, please contact your city or municipal office.

How can I apply?

The application form is available at your city or municipal hall. Some cities will make it available online. You may print it out and send it via post mail.

How much is the reduction or exemption?

It will depend on your actual situation, but basically it’s between 20% to 100% exemption.

On which terms will the reduction or exemption apply?

February 2020 to December 2020

What if I have already paid my premiums?

Don’t worry! Even if you’ve paid your premiums, you may still apply and be able to get a refund.

Ask and you shall receive…

The city and municipal governments will not be sending any physical forms or invitation about this reduction and exemption system. So if you are in a difficult situation, don’t hesitate to go to your city or municipal hall and ask about the details and process.

If you need information regarding COVID-19 related subsidies, you may contact me anytime. I also post some news and useful Japan information which are usually only available in Japanese. If you want to be updated on those, like my Facebook page!

Stay Safe Everyone,

Akiko