Covid-19 Crisis: Get Help and Secure Your Housing

The Japanese government, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has announced a new conditioned subsidy to secure housing for the people who lost their jobs or has decreased income because of the coronavirus pandemic.

What’s this subsidy to secure housing?

If you have suddenly become unemployed or your income drastically dropped because of the COVID-19 crisis, your house rental fee may be paid by your local government for at least 3 months. Depending on your situation, it may even be extended to up to 9 months.

What are the conditions to get this subsidy?

It depends on the city you live in, but these are the basic conditions:

• You are the head of your household
• The application has to be done within 2 years since you lost your job or your income dropped
• Your income is less than the reference amount (*1)
• Your financial asset is less than the reference amount (*2)
• You haven’t received any similar subsidy from the government
• No one in your family is a member of a boryokudan or gang

(*1) Income Amount (This example is for Gunma prefecture)

Household Members – Reference Amount

• Single Household – ¥108,700
• 2 Persons – ¥152,000
• 3 to 5 Persons – ¥179,900

(*2) Financial Asset

Most cities have set this amount to around ¥500,000 but if you want to know the exact amount for your city, kindly contact your local city hall or send me a message so I can ask for you.

How much is the housing subsidy?

The amount will depend on the city you live in. This example is for Gunma.

Household Members – Amount

• Single Household – up to ¥30,700
• 2 Persons – up to ¥37,000
• 3 to 5 Persons – up to ¥39,900

How will the home owner receive the money?

The money will be transferred directly to your bank.

When can I apply?

Conditions will be finalized on 30th of April, 2020.

What do I need to apply?

• Valid ID (e.g. driver’s license, residence card)
• Bank passbook
• Copy of a rental agreement
• Application forms (which you can get from your city hall)
• An evidence showing your decreased income

How can I apply?

Go to your city hall or Municipal Social Welfare Council in your city.

NEED HELP?

If you need help in any part of the application process, just let me know about your situation and I will do my best in assisting you with your housing subsidy application. Contact me anytime for questions and quotations.