The welfare system aims to “guarantee a minimum standard of living that is healthy and culturally acceptable” and to “promote self-reliance.” If it is deemed that an individual requires welfare, they will receive financial assistance.
The amount of financial aid provided is the difference between the “minimum living expenses calculated based on standards set by the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare” and the “individual’s income.” If an individual’s income exceeds these standards or if they can receive support from relatives, no welfare benefits will be provided.
How to Refuse a “Support Inquiry”?
To utilize the welfare system, an initial consultation is required. The consultation should be with the welfare office’s welfare support section in the area where the individual lives. Upon applying for welfare, several investigations will be conducted:
- An on-site investigation to understand the living situation.
- An investigation of assets such as savings, insurance, and real estate.
- An inquiry to determine if family members can provide support (the “support inquiry”).
- An investigation into social security benefits like pensions and work income.
- An evaluation of the possibility of employment.
The “support inquiry” specifically refers to the welfare office contacting relatives within the third degree of kinship (parents, children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren) to see if they can provide financial assistance. This inquiry is typically conducted via written communication.
Due to various personal circumstances, such as wanting to keep one’s situation private or strained relationships with relatives, some people hesitate to apply for welfare. Recognizing this, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has improved the handling of support inquiries.
Improvements in Handling Support Inquiries
In February 2021, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare issued a notification regarding support inquiries. It stated that in cases involving domestic violence, abuse, long-term lack of communication, or debts from relatives, the support inquiry would not be conducted.
In March 2021, the operational manual for welfare office staff was partially revised. This revision allows individuals applying for welfare to express their desire to refuse the support inquiry, and if they do, the inquiry will generally not be conducted.
However, applicants must explain to the welfare office’s welfare support section why the support inquiry is inappropriate or why support cannot be expected from the relative.
Refusing the Support Inquiry During Welfare Application is Possible
One major hurdle when applying for welfare is the support inquiry. To address this, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has improved its handling. Now, it is possible to refuse the support inquiry when applying for welfare, provided there are valid reasons. If you wish to refuse the inquiry, it is advisable to discuss your circumstances with the welfare office’s welfare support section.