Welfare Applications Surge in Japan, Reaching Highest Level Since 2013

Welfare Applications Reach Highest Level Since 2013

The number of applications for welfare benefits in 2024 reached 255,897, the highest figure since the current tallying method was adopted in 2013. This represents an increase of 818 applications, or 0.3%, from 2023, marking the fifth consecutive year of growth since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to 2020, the number of applications had been steadily declining from a peak of 254,785 in 2013. However, the pandemic's economic impact appears to have reversed this trend.

While the overall number of applications increased, December 2024 saw a slight decrease compared to the previous year. There were 18,551 applications in December, down 144 applications, or 0.8%, from December 2023.

As of December 2024, 1,652,199 households were receiving welfare benefits. Of these, 51.1% were single-person households headed by individuals aged 65 or older. Households headed by individuals unable to work due to disabilities, injuries, or illness accounted for 25.3%.

Officials from the Public Assistance Division of the welfare ministry have noted an apparent rise in the number of struggling single-person households. In response, the ministry plans to increase welfare benefits by 500 yen ($3.30) per month per person under certain conditions starting in fiscal year 2025. This increase aims to mitigate the impact of rising prices. However, less than 60% of recipient households will be eligible for this additional support.

Public assistance, often referred to as the "last safety net" of social security, is designed to uphold the "minimum standards of wholesome and cultured living" guaranteed by the Constitution. This support is provided to individuals and families facing extreme poverty due to job loss, illness, or other hardships. When a household's income falls below the government-set "minimum cost of living," even after accounting for savings and other assets, the shortfall is covered through welfare benefits.

Despite the planned increase, concerns remain that the additional support is insufficient. Welfare recipients and their advocates argue that a more substantial increase is necessary to adequately address the challenges faced by those relying on this vital safety net.