Jump to Another Job - Part 5: Hello Work & Unemployment Benefits
Jump to Another Job - Part 5: Hello Work & Unemployment Benefits
If you have a gap between jobs, understanding Japan's unemployment benefit system can provide crucial financial support during your transition. This guide covers the application process, waiting periods, and recent policy changes.
Unemployment Benefits (雇用保険の基本手当)
What Are Employment Insurance Basic Benefits?
Employment insurance basic benefits provide temporary financial support for workers who become unemployed and are actively seeking new employment. These benefits are administered through Hello Work (ハローワーク), Japan's public employment service.
Application Process
Required documents:
- Resignation Certificate (離職票) from your previous employer
- Employment Insurance Insured Person Certificate (雇用保険被保険者証)
- Personal identification (residence card, My Number card)
- Bank account information for benefit payments
- Recent photographs (3cm x 2.5cm, 2 copies)
Application location: Visit your local Hello Work office
Official guide: Hello Work Employment Insurance Benefits
Waiting Periods and Benefit Restrictions
7-Day Waiting Period (待期期間)
All applicants must wait 7 days from the date of job-seeking registration at Hello Work before benefits can begin.
Legal basis: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Guidelines
Benefit Restriction Period (給付制限)
Major changes effective April 1, 2025:
For voluntary resignation (自己都合退職):
- New policy (from 2025/04/01): Generally 1 month restriction period
- Previous policy (until 2025/03/31): 2 months restriction period
- Some cases still apply: 3 months restriction period for certain circumstances
For involuntary termination (会社都合退職):
- No benefit restriction period
- Benefits begin after the 7-day waiting period
Official announcement: Iwate Labour Bureau Notice
Benefit Calculation and Duration
Benefit Amount
Daily benefit amount calculation:
- Based on your average daily wage over the past 6 months
- Typically ranges from 45-80% of your previous daily wage
- Age and wage level affect the percentage
Benefit Duration
Duration depends on:
- Age at time of unemployment
- Length of employment insurance coverage
- Reason for leaving (voluntary vs. involuntary)
| Coverage Period | Age | Voluntary Resignation | Involuntary Termination |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 months - 1 year | Any | 90 days | 90 days |
| 1-5 years | Any | 90 days | 90-120 days |
| 5-10 years | Under 30 | 120 days | 120-180 days |
| 10-20 years | 30-35 | 150 days | 180-240 days |
Job-Seeking Activities
Required Activities
To continue receiving benefits, you must:
- Actively search for employment
- Report to Hello Work at scheduled intervals (typically every 4 weeks)
- Attend job counseling sessions
- Apply for suitable job positions
Recognition of Job-Seeking Activities
Qualifying activities:
- Attending job interviews
- Participating in job fairs
- Completing vocational training programs
- Meeting with employment counselors
Re-employment Allowance (再就職手当)
Early Re-employment Incentive
If you find stable employment before your benefit period ends, you may be eligible for a re-employment allowance.
Eligibility requirements:
- Secure employment with at least 1 year contract
- Start working after completing at least 1/3 of your benefit period
- Not employed by a related company to your previous employer
Benefit amount:
- 60% of remaining benefits if you have more than 2/3 of your benefit period left
- 50% of remaining benefits if you have between 1/3 and 2/3 left
Application Timeline
Week 1: Preparation
- Obtain resignation certificate from previous employer
- Gather required documents
- Locate your nearest Hello Work office
Week 2: Registration
- Visit Hello Work to register as job seeker
- Submit application for unemployment benefits
- Begin 7-day waiting period
Week 3-4: Waiting Period
- Complete job-seeking activities
- Attend any required orientations
- Prepare for benefit restriction period (if applicable)
Ongoing: Active Job Search
- Attend scheduled Hello Work appointments
- Document all job-seeking activities
- Consider vocational training opportunities
Important Considerations
Timing Your Application
Apply immediately: Don't delay your application as the 7-day waiting period starts from registration, not from your last day of work.
Documentation
Keep detailed records of:
- All job applications submitted
- Interview dates and outcomes
- Job fair attendance
- Training program participation
Language Support
Many Hello Work offices provide services in multiple languages or can arrange interpreters. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Pro Tips:
- Consider the re-employment allowance when evaluating job offers
- Use the waiting period to improve your skills through training programs
- Network with other job seekers at Hello Work events
- Don't hesitate to ask counselors for guidance on your job search strategy
Next: Part 6 - Tax Considerations: Year-end Adjustment & Resident Tax