In Japan, the number of families with only one parent has been increasing lately due to the rise in the divorce rate. It is very difficult for these single parents to rear children alone while working to earn enough money to support themselves and their children. In order to support such people, the Child-Rearing Allowance system is available to help stabilize their livelihood and promote their independence.
Requirements for Receiving the Allowance
The allowance is paid to:
-A single-parent family in which one parent has died or has been divorced
-To a family in which one parent has a severe mental or physical handicap.
-To a person who is bringing up children instead of the parent who would normally bring up their children.
The allowance is paid to families or persons bringing up children under the age of 18 years old, (However, if a child is handicapped, the age limit is under 20 years) . There are limits depending on one’s income.
The Amount of the Allowance
The amount of the allowance depends on the guardian’s income and the number of children. The amount is paid in 4-monthly-sums three times a year into a bank account in the prefecture where the individual lives. The amount is calculated according the guardian’s income and the number of dependants in the family.
Where to Apply
Applications should be made at the department in charge of child welfare of the city, town or ward office of one’s residence.
Documents Required:
An application form (available at your local public office) , seal, bankbook of an ordinary account (to confirm the account to which payment will be made) , Alien Registration Certificate of the guardian, Alien Registration of the child, (if the child is Japanese, a copy of their family registration and a certificate of residence of all family members is required) , documents which prove one is eligible to receive the allowance (depends on the conditions required to receive an allowance) , and a report on how one makes a living. (Other documents may be required)