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Gov't to give ¥300,000 in cash to each household in need

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Good to hear. I'm happy to see that this time, it's a bigger payout and, even though it makes things more complicated to process, the money is going to those who need it, rather than to everyone.

I don't need it. Many do. Best of luck to us all.

20 ( +24 / -4 )

Just what is the criteria to be 'in need?'

33 ( +34 / -1 )

How do you qualify? My husband is self employed and we are struggling. That amount won’t last long though.

20 ( +25 / -5 )

Who determines who is in need? And if you are deemed to not be in need now, will you receive it later? This is breaking news, so I honestly don't know, but my guess is that the devil will be in the details.

20 ( +20 / -0 )

Better than two cotton masks.

47 ( +47 / -0 )

How do I apply? I'm in the tourism industry and free lancing. Meaning that I've lost all my guiding jobs this year. Even looking at ALT jobs again or work at a lowly eikaiwa. I fell hard.

23 ( +26 / -3 )

Just what is the criteria to be 'in need?'

Exactly. Anyway, hope that those who need it get it sharpish.

14 ( +14 / -0 )

More details in Japanese news

https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/politics/20200403-OYT1T50023/

7 ( +7 / -0 )

In short term I agree govt. to support the citizen as much as I know this pandemic is still proliferating all around, but for how long? Health and hygiene instructions would be much clear, as most media saying don't touch this or that like as door knobs, wash hands anytime going out or coming back home, wear mask, avoid cluster, etc.. I rather think to be careful of cash bills/coins from people to people, and public toilets to be disinfected every time when it is used by every individual, to understand how to do it. Things essential for life is money and better ways of instructions to people be less affected by this pandemic virus.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

The criteria will be steep! Probably those who lost their jobs as a direct consequence of the outbreak and life in a household with no other source of income!

@Garthgoyle...are you a Japanese? This assistance will only be given to Japanese nationals ( foreign passport holders are not eligible )!

4 ( +14 / -10 )

I hope they are not expecting people to flock to the remainng surviving restaurants and retail outlets to shop. This money is just going to be used to but food, which could be a good thing.

But I wonder if it will arrive in time for thos who are struggling are the ones that need this help, NOW.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

Credit where it's due, this is at least a more useful idea than Abe's 2 mask bonanza.

In fact I would 'urge' the Government to cancel the mask distribution and put that budget towards this program.

@Alexandre..."but for how long?"

Until it's safe for affected workers to get their jobs back. There is plenty of money to spare in Government coffers.

7 ( +7 / -0 )

It's great news, but it will unfortunately lead to more popularity for Abe and a possible re-election next year.

2 ( +9 / -7 )

@Garthgoyle...are you a Japanese? This assistance will only be given to Japanese nationals ( foreign passport holders are not eligible )!

Is this correct?

9 ( +10 / -1 )

Garthgoyle...are you a Japanese? This assistance will only be given to Japanese nationals ( foreign passport holders are not eligible )!

If that's the case, then I don't want to pay for taxes no more.

28 ( +30 / -2 )

In addition to the two reusable cotton masks per an entire family, we can now expect cash as well? Wow! We can buy more masks!

5 ( +7 / -2 )

@Jimizo... the bill hasn’t been passed yet by the Government. But it’s only for Japanese nationals because foreign nationals will have to rely on their own Governments for assistance! If atleast one member in the household is a Japanese national then they’ll probably qualify if other aspects are fulfilled! I went down to the Nakano city office to ask about financial assistance for foreigners whose jobs have been affected by this outbreak and they told me that there is none! They said the Government is planning something for Japanese nationals only but even that hasn’t been approved yet!

19 ( +24 / -5 )

@YeahRight who determines need? These days, since the advent of MyNumber they have a tool to look at your income (tax details show all dependents and other "allowed" deductions for circumstances ) / city tax/ if you are someone qualified for free health insurance / the level of your assets ( since the banks etc. now have to collect your "my number" and are steadily doing so ) - so they can make a pretty good ( and automated ) estimate of your "wealth" level. These days they even record your FOREX transactions and what you state it to be for so they can start to estimate your offshore asset base. Of course there will be a few who slip through the net in either direction ( especially those who only take cash and keep it under the mattress and get all the free services anyway... or salted away cash overseas before the controls became as automated ). But anyway there are tools available to make a decent estimate.

@Hunter James - as a foreign national and tax resident I never had any problem claiming any benefit that a Japanese citizen in the same circumstances would be entitled to ( nor able to avoid any payment that a citizen would be required to pay in ) . That part of the system does not discriminate. Really the only technical difference is the right to vote.

1 ( +11 / -10 )

I remember last time when Aso was prime ministers an amount of ¥12,000 to every citizen were distributed and no exception to foreigner living in Japan, who has Juminhyo registered.

12 ( +14 / -2 )

So what are the criteria to be “in need”

5 ( +5 / -0 )

oops, foreigners living in Japan.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

If the Government know it is 10 million households, why apply ? Government have all the tax records and back accounts of those who qualify, So why don't they just issues direct the their bank accounts. Because the criteria is impossible to qualify. Like having to kept records of 10 years of wage and expense receipt in duplicate and hand over your passport and have all your vaccination and three year membership of the DLP. Easy count me in.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

@Garthgoyle... sorry for the bad news but that’s what I heard from the city officials in my ward! They are not going to provide any financial assistance to foreigners affected by the outbreak ( at least for now ). They are drafting plans to assist Japanese nationals ( probably this 200,000 yen per household ) severely affected by this outbreak. And there will be many requirements for this. I got this information yesterday at Nakano ward city office. You can probably check for some information at your own city ward.

8 ( +14 / -6 )

Hunter JamesToday  12:07 pm JST

@Jimizo... the bill hasn’t been passed yet by the Government. But it’s only for Japanese nationals because foreign nationals will have to rely on their own Governments for assistance!

Is the Japanese government giving the same assistance to Japanese nationals who live and work overseas? I bet not! In that case why do they expect other countries to?

We live here and pay taxes here. These are not normal times we live in. Japan should do the right thing and give it to all residents who qualify, regardless of citizenship.

9 ( +12 / -3 )

typical Japanese vagueness so they can easily turn you down.

Funny how when they raised taxes its not vague at all

27 ( +30 / -3 )

@Hunter James - it occurs to me that with the exception of permanent residents / special permanent residents or spouses of Japanese nationals, the minimum income/assett/guarantee requirements for a visa are probably above the defined "poverty line" .... so exclusion on technical income grounds would be autiomatic.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

The last stimulus back in 2009 I and most foreigners I know got the Taro Aso stimulus, I remember very clearly getting a letter from the city office to register my bank account, getting the money and going strait to paying bills with the one I got.

15 ( +15 / -0 )

Niloc2806Today  12:21 pm JST

@Hunter James - it occurs to me that with the exception of permanent residents / special permanent residents or spouses of Japanese nationals, the minimum income/assett/guarantee requirements for a visa are probably above the defined "poverty line" .... so exclusion on technical income grounds would be autiomatic

Until you lose your job or have your hours cut.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

@Hunter James

I am not sure where the Nakano Ward office gets that information, but I don't see anything being announced that its only for citizens. Perhaps they are thinking of how unemployment benefits work, there is something there about foreign residents I believe. As others have mentioned, in the past when these benefits have been given out foreign residents with juminhyo were given them as well. We pay taxes, why not? In my country, Canada, they are giving benefits to people who lost their jobs, but one of the requirements is 'residing in Canada', so then I get nothing in either country?

6 ( +8 / -2 )

@Niloc2806... I’d like to ask what financial benefits did you receive in Japan as a foreign national? Where did you get these? Please provide examples so that I can believe this. I consulted the Nakano city ward office yesterday and got my information. NO FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR FOREIGNERS affect by this outbreak. So if you know any branch of the Government assisting foreigners please kindly share the information. It’s easy to claim that the system doesn’t discriminate without evidence! The staff at my city ward directly told me to consult the American embassy ( being a US citizen ) for information regarding financial assistance as it’s not Japanese Governments responsibility to assist foreign nationals financially. Oh, by the way I’m a white male so most times I’m not discriminated against! If I experienced this then I feel sorry for people of color and the discrimination they must be feeling in Japan when dealing with public officials!

3 ( +12 / -9 )

There is a diet member who is currently getting a lot of flack for saying foreigners should not be given this benefit, by the way.

12 ( +12 / -0 )

The 2009 Taro Aso stimulus applied to all residents of Japan.

9 ( +9 / -0 )

Government have all the tax records and back accounts of those who qualify, So why don't they just issues direct the their bank accounts.

What makes you think the government has people's bank account information?

-21 ( +2 / -23 )

@Niloc2806

it occurs to me that with the exception of permanent residents / special permanent residents or spouses of Japanese nationals, the minimum income/assett/guarantee requirements for a visa are probably above the defined "poverty line" .... so exclusion on technical income grounds would be autiomatic.

You are probably correct about this because holding one of these visas indicates that atleast one member in the household is a Japanese national.

8 ( +12 / -4 )

I’d like to ask what financial benefits did you receive in Japan as a foreign national? Where did you get these? Please provide examples so that I can believe this. I consulted the Nakano city ward office yesterday and got my information. NO FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR FOREIGNERS affect by this outbreak.

My experience is the same that I've never not been eligible for something an equivalent Japanese national would not have been eligible for. One example being the ¥12000 payment in 2008 or 2009 or whenever it was.

-4 ( +6 / -10 )

If any foreign national gets this assistance then come back and share your experience with us in this comments section. Until then it’s no use debating and sharing the information that I got from my city office then bluntly informed me that there is no financial assistance for foreign nationals residing in Japan affected by the Corona virus outbreak!

9 ( +16 / -7 )

The Japanese government is going to need more money. So far Japan has only tested 35,000 people and we have 2300 confirmed covid 19 cases. That's approximately 1 in every 15 tests. That's scary when you think if they tested more how many positive tests would we have? Do the math.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

Hunter JamesToday  11:38 am JST

@Garthgoyle...are you a Japanese? This assistance will only be given to Japanese nationals ( foreign passport holders are not eligible )!

Meaningless comment . Do you know this country?

All fiscal resident families in Japan will have the right for it, if their revenues have decreased as a result of Coronavirus.

Whatever they are Japanese, foreign or mixed families.

Learn how it works before making any comment.

4 ( +13 / -9 )

Hunter Jamese:

holding one of these visas indicates that at least one member in the household is a Japanese national.

No it doesn't. I'm a permanent resident and there's no one in my household but me. I applied after living and working here more than 10 years.

I got the payout last time. I'd expect to collect this time if I needed it, could show lost income, etc.

As you yourself said, nothing has passed yet, so how would anyone at Nakano ward office know anything about the details? They're not writing or debating the bill. I think what they told you is "there's nothing available to you now.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

my city office then bluntly informed me that there is no financial assistance for foreign nationals residing in Japan affected by the Corona virus outbreak!

There's no financial assistance for anyone in Japan affected by the Corona virus outbreak, at the moment.

14 ( +14 / -0 )

Until then it’s no use debating and sharing the information that I got from my city office then bluntly informed me that there is no financial assistance for foreign nationals residing in Japan affected by the Corona virus outbreak!

It's extremely doubtful that this information is correct. Either the person you were talking to didn't know what they were talking about, or you misunderstood what they were saying. The above comment isn't in line with how things have traditionally been done, and there is nothing to indicate that they are intending to change tack this time.

-3 ( +8 / -11 )

I'll await the specific details before passing final judgement - but it definitely seems like a good decision.

It all depends on how they determine 'in need' though.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Foreign nationals being too optimistic about receiving this like a Japanese national I’d say good luck to you all! We shall see the reality when this financial assistance starts!

By the way, you can’t compare the past handouts with this one because there are many contributing factors!

5 ( +12 / -7 )

For the record, foreign nationals who pay into the employment insurance scheme are just as eligible to collect benefits as Japanese nationals.

And decades living here leads me to assume that foreign nationals working and paying taxes here will be equally eligible to get this benefit. PR or otherwise. Students visa holders, working holiday visa holders could well be different.

City/ward office employees are not in any position to answer questions about this national government support plan, that is still being refined.

9 ( +12 / -3 )

Whether eligibility for this particular program will be extended to foreigners remains to be seen (I suspect it will given the circumstances), but since 2014 it's now settled law that non-citizens have no constitutional right to collect any social welfare payments regardless of how long they've lived in Japan even if they are permanent residents. Nevertheless, it remains entirely within the discretion of local/national government to incude non-citizens in any welfare programs, and many local governments do.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

About 10 million of Japan's 58 million households are expected to be eligible for the cash program

What about the other 48 million?

Are 48 million households rich?

Am I missin something?

5 ( +7 / -2 )

Before taking Hunter Jsmes’ word about this proposed program not applying to foreign residents, I would want to know exactly how the conversation transpired at the ward office. Was it possibly something like this:

James: do you have a program to assist foreigners?

Ward person: No we don’t (have any programs specifically geared for foreigners).

Like others who posted above I have also had no problem receiving various previous “handouts” for low income people, for general stimulation of the economy etc. I got exactly the same amounts, and through the same processes as Japanese members of the family.

Invalid CSRF

4 ( +6 / -2 )

A modified hello-work covid-19 influenced program? Go line up at the city, and get interviewed about you got impacted by COVID-19? Whilst i thought this is everyone right? I think everyone should be eligible for this program because we all affected. Or allow everyone who is paying unemployment insurance whether they have lost their Job, yet to be lost or didn't lose it also be beneficiaries to this. What good is the insurance if we can't use it these circumstances.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Well done Japan, much better than those two masks.

But that said, can I be the party pooper?

...why cash? Can't the people in need receive it directly in their bank account?

1 ( +2 / -1 )

The BOJ is going to print the money to pay for this anyway, so give the money to anyone who finds it worth their while to go to the municipal office and suffer through the paper work to get it.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Hopefully , this will be carried out sooner rather than later....

3 ( +3 / -0 )

What about the other 48 million?

> Are 48 million households rich?

> Am I missin something?

Well, it's not like everyone is broke in this country. People have savings etc... This is meant for people that have trouble putting lunch and dinner together.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Hope JT sees fit to post an article when this passes and full accurate details are known.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Personal and anecdotal data only, but if you have a juminhyo and "Mynumber" and you have had any interaction about matters such as residence taxes and pensions the authorities have a wealth of information about your income level. That may not correspond to your current coronavirus impacted situation.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

I checked... not first April, is not an April fool.

Woow about to get lit lit 200k ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

0 ( +0 / -0 )

15 million people live below the poverty level. The claimants are probably the same who who would qualify for welfare or low incomes. The most dire of people.

If they are collecting welfare then hopefully they don't get this bonus on top. Many will just spend it at the pachinko or buying another nintendo ds for their kids to play while they're at pachinko.

-7 ( +3 / -10 )

Forget the 2 masks and use that money and give us more or those who are in need.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

VdAinJapan

“..why cash? Can't the people in need receive it directly in their bank account?”

I believe the term cash is being used to refer to “money” as opposed to shopping coupons or vouchers that have been used in some previous programs. 

In previous “cash” handout programs we received In the mail forms To fill out. There was an option to fill out our account details to have the money deposited, or to go to city hall to revive cash in person. 

Fxgai, “give the money to anyone who finds it worth their while to go to the municipal office and suffer through the paper work to get it.“

See above. I expect no visits to city hall will be necessary if you have a bank account. Especially as we are supposed to be cutting down on goi g out of our homes, having unnecessary contact with people etc.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

If they are collecting welfare then hopefully they don't get this bonus on top. Many will just spend it at the pachinko or buying another nintendo ds for their kids to play while they're at pachinko.

If they are collecting welfare, this bonus on top would be nice to help with dealing with the unexpected expenses from society partially shutting down for families who are already on the tightest of budgets.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

THANK U very much , how do we apply ???.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

People need to stop spreading misinformation here.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

I imagine the level of income required to receive this ¥300,000 is very low, such that only single mothers and really, really poor people will actually receive it. No way are people earning over ¥250,000 per month getting a sniff of it.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

@ runner3Today 12:45 pm JST

'So far Japan has only tested 35,000 people and we have 2300 confirmed covid 19 cases. That's approximately 1 in every 15 tests. That's scary when you think if they tested more how many positive tests would we have? Do the math.'

Just a quick comment on this, I don't think it's too far off topic...

Yes. Testing is Key. Hopefully Thailand's 15 swab test is something the world will get onboard with.

Testing everyone is important (and here's where it relates to this topic) because those who have HAD the virus can return to work with those who have NOT with no risk. Once you've had Covid it appears you are in the clear, and the only way to know is to test for antibodies.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

If they are collecting welfare then hopefully they don't get this bonus on top.

It's not a bonus, it's money to help people suffering from falling incomes, is those whose incomes have been slashed by the drop in the economy due to the pandemic. I imagine those on welfare will not have seen any drop in their income so few will be eligible, though god knows I'm sure many would appreciate a bit extra. Those likely to get the money will be, I imagine, hospitality workers whose restaurants/hotels/theme parks have been closed; contract workers whose contracts have been terminated; department store workers who have been laid off or put on shorter hours, etc.

No way are people earning over ¥250,000 per month getting a sniff of it.

People who were earning over 250,000 per month up until February might well have little or no income this month. Or next month. or...

Invalid CSRF

11 ( +12 / -1 )

I’d like to ask what financial benefits did you receive in Japan as a foreign national? Where did you get these?

Talking from personal experience, I received full unemployment payments after a previous employer went bankrupt in 2015. Even got a nice lump sum bonus for finding work quickly as well.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

Action of some type. Finally 300.000 or what ever it is. Single Mom's and elderly first.

What about the homeless in Japan?

What of them? Government survey identifies 7,821 homeless people in Japan in 2019.

Without really an effective census in Japan. Who knows the real number.

Meanwhile in Fukuoka. Its spreading. Cluster suspected in Hakata.

https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/news/22-more-covid-19-cases-in-fukuoka-suspected-cluster-in-hakata/?fbclid=IwAR2ZTkRLIc7FWjyUyus2OY1wHKQ2-d3E16OFunN_MJu5w9QDuVib9Jffnr0

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/fukuoka-news/20200402/5010007395.html

My location there are 3 cases. Saga. But I suspect there is more. Needless to say I have my N99 mask on and Oakley goggles on at work and do not care one bit how ridiculous I look. My boss has asked me to remove the mask and the goggles but I refused. I have asthma and other health issues. I am not taking any chances and there is no guarantee these protective measures are even going work from contacting this virus according to experts. Good to see the the government here doing something for the people. Cause its been nothing increases taxes and money collection since he took office and pocket lining.

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

Every bit helps. Am not ashamed to admit that I am struggling.

If they are collecting welfare then hopefully they don't get this bonus on top. Many will just spend it at the pachinko or buying another nintendo ds for their kids to play while they're at pachinko.

This rather disgusting statement has no basis in reality and serves only to demonize those less fortunate than some here.

Everyone deserves a lift in these desperate times.

13 ( +14 / -1 )

PM Abe's announcement of providing 300,000 yen assistance to 10 million households in Japan is a bold step to mitigate the sufferings of the weaker sections of society facing falling income due to spread of Corona Virus from Wuhan. People should applaud PM Abe for his bold initiative to reduce the suffering of people in this hour of crisis and fully support his moves as a token of approval and give another fourth term term to him to lead affairs of Japan.

-7 ( +4 / -11 )

Hunter JamesToday  12:07 pm JST

@Jimizo... the bill hasn’t been passed yet by the Government. But it’s only for Japanese nationals because foreign nationals will have to rely on their own Governments for assistance!

So what you’re saying is that me paying 32 years into the pension system and 32 years of a list of different taxes and insurances means absolutely nothing should my should be unable to continue due to financial burdens? That can’t be right? Can J-Gov really be that low?

6 ( +7 / -1 )

The amount is fine. Put the program into implementation asap, ideally before the Golden Week holiday.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Before passing judgement. or counting your chickens before they’re  hatched

How are Government agencies going define/assess the criteria for “families in need” to qualify for this ¥300,000 cash payment?.......Or dare I suggest, up to ¥300,000?

2 ( +2 / -0 )

This ¥300,000 cash could be attached to a length of elastic. Now you see it , now you dont.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Finance Minister Taro Aso, who was prime minister during the 2008 crisis, told journalists Friday that experience of the 2009 cash handouts showed that providing cash to households across the board would be "meaningless."

You know what is meaningless Aso, you elitist jerk?

Anything you have to say about people who work for a living,

who then through no fault of their own, lose their work.

You will never know our plight, so please don't speak on things you have no clue about!

5 ( +5 / -0 )

This is twice as much as the average American is going to get.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

“I imagine those on welfare will not have seen any drop in their income so few will be eligible, though god knows I'm sure many would appreciate a bit extra.”

Japan’s deserving needy can only look on with stunned incomprehension at how other countries are assisting those at the margins who may not have experienced any drop in income. People on welfare in Australia were already receiving well over A$2,000 a month in benefits before Covid 19 came along and the Government announced they’d also be receiving two cash payments totaling A$1,500 AND an almost DOUBLING of the existing welfare payments for the next six months. Also, these payments were NOT granted per household, but individually.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

This is twice as much as the average American is going to get.

The average Japanese isn't going to get any. It goes to those whose income has been zapped by the coronavirus.

How are Government agencies going define/assess the criteria for “families in need” to qualify for this ¥300,000 cash payment?

According to the Yomiuri link higher up the thread, people who consider themselves to be in need will have to apply on a self-assessment basis. They'll have to supply documentation (showing dire straits? loss of earnings? an empty fridge?) and dishonest applications will be subject to a fine (and, presumably, no ¥300,000).

Single Mom's and elderly first

If the single mum has lost her job, then yes she should have her ¥300,000, though I fail to see why she automatically gets a place ahead of the hard-working couple with five kids who suddenly have no income.

So far pensions haven't been affected, so no need to give hand-outs to the elderly just on account of their being elderly. If they're working to top up an inadequate pension and have lost their job, then yes.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

I do have to ask? where was this money before now? Apparently the government was hording large sums of cash, claiming it had no money! Raised taxes while hording all this cash. Cut social services that now it's obviously the government had the money all along. If only we had a finance minister who could do his job. Life is precious. But homeless and special needs not so much. Huge companies who don't pay tax now they hord more money, rest of us paying tax and get just enough to get buy. There is definatly something wrong.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Bad luck for foreigners working in Japan.

It has entered the second week of a four week lockdown here in New Zealand. But, foreign workers are being paid through Covid19 Wage Subsidy just like New Zealand residents.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Look! It's MAGIC!! Money appearing out of nowhere!

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

@Hunter James

Nikkei is reporting that Minister Suga announced that foreign residents of Japan will also be considered for this, if they meet the qualifications.

菅義偉官房長官は3日の記者会見で、給付対象について日本に滞在する外国人も含めて検討する方針を示した。09年に外国人も含めた全国民に給付した定額給付金を参考にすると述べた。

https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXMZO57619080T00C20A4MM8000/

6 ( +6 / -0 )

I cannot believe the callousness of some comments here. Zeus forbid you are ever in need and seek help. I hope your vile and venom will not come back on you. Have some empathy.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

I just started the Japanese pension system in Japan. My income last year was good...actually fair. In 2020 I have made nothing...what happens?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Power has only one duty - to secure the social welfare of the People.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

A one-off payment of less than an average salary (and two face masks) does seem quite generous, but people will need much more support as things worsen, which they will. Banks will start foreclosing and landlords will start evicting tenants when residential and commercial rent payments get in arrears. This is where many people will need ongoing support. This is something that cannot be solved by throwing a bag of cash at it and forgetting it.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

@Hunter JamesToday  01:05 pm JST

Foreign nationals being too optimistic about receiving this like a Japanese national I’d say good luck to you all! We shall see the reality when this financial assistance starts! 

By the way, you can’t compare the past handouts with this one because there are many contributing factors!

Do you really live in Japan , and also speak Japanese ? How long have you been here ?

If you live here, you should know you are entitled the same rights in term of support as the Japanese if you are a fiscal resident.

Explain concretely why foreigners won’t be entitled to get it if they fill all the criteria ?

I have been here for 20 years and can tell you that many times I received subsidies for different issues.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

Japan, just like the US and China, can print its own money. Its no big deal to the economy. Its always a careful balance between inflation and deflation. No one is going to get rich off this handout and hopefully it will save people from starvation. People can criticize, but its the least the government can do. A balance between capitalism and socialism is needed in all countries to make it through pandemics like this. However, people should save their money for times of distress like this. In Singapore, the government automatically takes a certain percentage of its people's salary every month because it knows many are not responsible. In Japan, many spend their pay checks at the pachinko parlor instead of their savings. This is why the government has to bail people out. Sad.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Hmmm...I'm wondering how many face masks I can buy with 300,000 Yen and then sell for double to Americans. Just kidding

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

Bad luck for foreigners working in Japan.

It has entered the second week of a four week lockdown here in New Zealand. But, foreign workers are being paid through Covid19 Wage Subsidy just like New Zealand residents.

You are very lucky, however, are there enough jobs that foreigners can work in New Zealand ?

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Anyway, don't worry, foreigners in Japan.

Japan has the public livelihood assistance social aid system ultimately. More than 2 million people, including many foreigners, use the system.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Nikkei is reporting that Minister Suga announced that foreign residents of Japan will also be considered for this, if they meet the qualifications. 

菅義偉官房長官は3日の記者会見で、給付対象について日本に滞在する外国人も含めて検討する方針を示した。09年に外国人も含めた全国民に給付した定額給付金を参考にすると述べた。

https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXMZO57619080T00C20A4MM8000/

Cheers, mate.

Much more useful than anecdotes regarding statements from staff in ward offices.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

Hahaha, Abe has no choice but does it in CCP way: return wealth to people.

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

Is a guy who usually earns 5~10million a year in need if he has just lost his job and has no savings? Another aimai policy from Jgov. Just give everyone something. Those who dont need it should reject the money. Those who take what they dont need when others do are scum.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

2+2 = 4 (most couples living in Japan were eligible for this)

Now they have done the complex arithmetic and cut it down to 300,000 per household.......

I am utterly amazed by the sharp and and stunningly visible process of pure logic as applied to closing the purse strings of leaking embezzled money in the name of helping the public.

Did they find that there might be more that two derived incomes in a single home?

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

This assistance will only be given to Japanese nationals ( foreign passport holders are not eligible )!

Hmmm...

If that's the case, then I don't want to pay for taxes no more.

Oh, just be quiet and pay your taxes so proper citizens can benefit! :(

So what are the criteria to be “in need”

Don't worry about it, your DNA doesn't meet that criteria.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

"Is the Japanese government giving the same assistance to Japanese nationals who live and work overseas? I bet not! In that case why do they expect other countries to?"

Britain does not provide financial assistance to Japanese nationals living over here.

And they pay taxes too.

Why should Japan help gaijin living in their country?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

So many foreigners complain here about how the Japanese are racist and discriminatory, yet the idea that they will discriminate against us, when that has not been traditionally the case, nor any indication that it will be the case this time, is racist and discriminatory.

Seems the pot may be calling the kettle black.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

According to Yahoo Japan, the government will award 300,000¥ to households currently exempt from residency taxes and those whose incomes have fallen by 50% or more. Nothing in the article about expats.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Peeping_Tom, do you mean why should Japan help foreigners living in Japan who are paying Japanese tax? I love Japan. I might have missed something. I am just curious if you are talking about foreigners living in Japan who pay Japanese taxes.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Peeping_Tom, my apologies. I didn't read the article first. Please disregard my question. It is irrelevant.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Why should Japan help gaijin living in their country?

1) Because we pay into the same systems as the Japanese.

2) Because otherwise, they're going to have a bunch of poor and desperate foreigners that they've allowed into the country, who have no way to eat and no way to get out of the country.

And if the UK isn't supporting the foreign residents of their country, shame on them. That's pretty non-humanitarian, and irresponsible.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

According to Yahoo Japan, the government will award 300,000¥ to households currently exempt from residency taxes and those whose incomes have fallen by 50% or more. Nothing in the article about expats.

There wouldn't be anything in the article about expats, first because it's a Japanese article, and the overwhelming majority of them aren't thinking about us, but also because the status quo is that foreigners will be eligible, so there would only be something if they had decided to exclude us for some reason.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

To claim the 300,000 yen it will take you many trips to the tax office and many trips to city hall , atleast a couple of days off work navigating the maze of people telling which papers and where to collect them, so be prepared for that for a start. Make sure you have records showing you income has dropped and be prepared to have a lucnh at the cafeteria at city hall while you go through this process.

You may not qualify, but hey if you do not try you will not get it, and if you try then there is a chance you might, handle the stress well, be polite, take it easy collect the paperwork, stand in line and you may just get lucky.

Good luck and make sure you have the right answers and your paper work backs up you statements, you maybe ok, push forward, you can only lose one or two day of you time at worst if it fails.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

What makes you think the government has people's bank account information?

-20 ( +1 / -21 )

Heh, 21 people didn't like that question, yet none of them answered it.

I consider that a win.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

it's a Japanese article, and the overwhelming majority of them aren't thinking about us

"We" have an issue with generalizations about Japanese individuals, which presumably is what is meant by "them", since articles are not in the business of "thinking about us". There is nothing in either the Japanese (on Yahoo) or the English-language article above about expats receiving assistance. Unsafe to make assumptions.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

There is nothing in either the Japanese (on Yahoo) or the English-language article above about expats receiving assistance. Unsafe to make assumptions.

But if you look at past behavior, there is literally nothing to indicate Japan won't pay this out to foreign residents.

So it's pretty safe to make this assumption.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

If it walks like a duck and if it quacks like a duck, then It is a duck.

I works like a Japanese and pay my taxes like a Japanese. (arguably more)

And then, what matters is my vote to LDP?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

The money will go to households whose income have fallen to " a certain level". What does " a certain level " mean?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

On the face of it 300,000 yen assistance seems good and helpful but in reality it might not be so!

Firstly, how many people would actually qualify for this and receive this is yet to be seen. We don’t even know the real criteria for this as it’s too vague now. Seems like the Government is just saving face rather than actually helping the people.

Secondly, if a person was earning 5-10 million yen a year ( for example working in the tourism sector or airline ) and is currently laid off or in a furlough then they will qualify for this assistance. Surely, they must have enough savings for rainy days!

Thirdly, some hardworking people who are keeping the economy going by reporting to work daily and risking the likelihood of getting infected will not get anything because they still have a job and salary flow. Doesn’t seem fair because these are the people who are actually keeping Japan afloat economy and health wise.

Fourthly, the number of people forming lines at the city offices to apply for this assistance will be massive and this defeats the purpose of fighting the virus itself ( mass gathering = more infections ).

The Japanese Government should have just given everyone some financial assistance even if the amount was lower. Everyone without filling up pages of documents and forming lines at the city offices ( maybe registration online and direct bank deposits ). They already have mynumber information for almost all residents for verification purposes.

All in all, its always challenging to desire who gets what and how to give out these sort of assistance but the bottom line is that this scenario is related to a virus outbreak so people shouldn’t be asked to form lines at the city offices with relevant documents!

6 ( +7 / -1 )

@kokontozai

You are very lucky, however, are there enough jobs that foreigners can work in New Zealand ?

I am a resident here. My wife's business has employees including a student visa holder who could work 20 hours a week. That student visa holder is also being paid during current lockdown. Any employee, who is legally able to work in New Zealand regardless of resident status, is being paid.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

All in all, its always challenging to desire who gets what and how to give out these sort of assistance but the bottom line is that this scenario is related to a virus outbreak so people shouldn’t be asked to form lines at the city offices with relevant documents!

You have earned a B plus for your essay. Otsukaresama!

0 ( +1 / -1 )

So the Japanese government says that foreigners should get help from their own governments? So by that reasoning they will happily send money to Japanese abroad who cannot get work in those countries?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Garthgoyle..probally you will need go to prefecture office and make request..then they will analize your sittuation ...but the rules will rolling out just before april 7

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

So the Japanese government says that foreigners should get help from their own governments?

No, the Japanese government has not said that. What gave you that idea?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

This administration has no sense. A proposal that focuses only on how it appears in news headlines. The actual payment standard for this plan is for households at the level where welfare is usually provided. No ordinary household is available. It's ugly. I just gave those messages. It cannot be a surprise. In this case, everyone should be paid cash immediately, whether to save money. It is a mistake that the Ministry of Finance was reluctant to accept it and the Minister of Finance Aso acknowledged it.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

@Hunter James  "I’d like to ask what financial benefits did you receive in Japan as a foreign national? Where did you get these?"

Its a fairly long list: Kodomo Teate ( child allowance ) via Ward Office / Childbirth subsidy via Ward Office / subsidised childcare via Ward office / child health insurance balance (tops up normal health insurance making it free for kids ) - via Ward Office / free glasses for daughter - via Ward Office / Aso's money from last time / access to government owned UR housing ( lower rent and better build quality than found in the private sector for a similar or even higher price ) / Flat 35 ( government subsidised ) mortgage for "qualified buildings" at lower than market rates - do I need to go on.... I pay my taxes ( national, prefectural and city ), my health insurance, my pension... its quid pro quo as far as I am concerned.

"You are probably correct about this because holding one of these visas indicates that at least one member in the household is a Japanese national."

Nope - I am a permanent resident as is my wife and my children. None of us are Japanese nationals/citizens.

@Strangerland "What makes you think the government has people's bank account information?"

All the banks have been told to collect your "my number". Lots of excuses for this reporting requirement like terrorism and anti-money laundering however its notable that the tax office wants to know your asset base and any unexplained increases and the easy access to this data is enabled ... Its a fairly recent activity however people (Japanese and foreigners alike) are gradually receiving letters from their banks asking them, where they don't already have it, to report their MyNumber they want to keep operating their account.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Another 100 infections in Tokyo today?

Soon 300k won’t be enough to live on when workplaces start closing their doors

0 ( +0 / -0 )

then if its only for Japanese nationals I will not gonna pay my taxes no more. so unfair we pay tax only for them

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

"If we set an income limit, we would have to check individual incomes, which would take a lot of time," Yasutoshi Nishimura, minister in charge of economic and fiscal policy...........

Yes, because the Japanese Government haven't wasted enough of our time yet? Now it's such a concern to save time?

Nishimura said politicians and major corporate executives who have not been significantly affected by the economic impact of the virus outbreak, will be excluded from the scheme.

You mean the crooks and embezzlers? Got it. Thank you Mr. Politician.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

@Strangerland

And if the UK isn't supporting the foreign residents of their country, shame on them. That's pretty non-humanitarian, and irresponsible.

Do you have a source for this? As far as I can see, that's not true... If you have the right to reside in the UK (are not subject to immigration control - which is pretty much just those who did not enter the country legally, and those whose visa required an external sponsor to fund their stay), then you have access to public funds such as Universal Credit, Statutory Sick Pay and the government's Furlough Scheme... I don't see why a Japanese national based in the UK and paying UK taxes would be excluded from anything. Maybe someone on a shorter term visa would not have access to these, but you did specify 'foreign resident'.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

@Strangerland

Sorry, I did not see that you were actually responding to @Peeping_Tom

@Peeping_Tom

Britain does not provide financial assistance to Japanese nationals living over here.

See my comment above - I cannot find any evidence that this is true. According to the Citizens Advice Bureau, if you are from outside the EU, to claim public funds you must have the right to reside in the UK and not be subject to immigration control. I don't see why any Japanese national in the UK would be subject to immigration control. The only exception may be international students, but I imagine most of these have returned home now.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Well, what is the answer?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

For some people this will be a help, but traditionally what happens when there is a government handout in Japan is the money goes straight into peoples bank accounts and stays there. We'll see if this is different.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

For some people this will be a help, but traditionally what happens when there is a government handout in Japan is the money goes straight into peoples bank accounts and stays there. We'll see if this is different.

Traditionally, the government hasn't needed to hand out money to people who suddenly couldn't work because the world is in a pandemic. The people who will get this money, likely won't have the flexibility to sit on it and watch it gain interest.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

The headline is misleading. From what I was to understand, those households who need the money will get 300,000 yen.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

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