【Overview】 - How do I apply for my Pension Refund?
The Pension Reform Bill was promulgated on November 9, 1994 so that a Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment (pension refund) can be granted on request to those who have enrolled in Japanese public pension schemes but who then leave the country. All JET Programme participants pay into the Japanese Pension, therefore most will be able to claim a refund, provided the JET participant meets all of the eligibility criteria.
Filing for the pension refund, officially called the "Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment", and the tax refund associated with its payout is a 7-step process that begins just before the JET leaves Japan.
1) Before leaving, get the necessary forms and designate a Tax Representative.
2) After leaving Japan, mail necessary forms for refund.
3) Receive Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment into overseas bank account.
4) Mail notice of refund to Tax Representative in Japan.
5) Tax representative files for refund of tax on lump-sum withdrawal.
6) Tax representative receives tax refund.
7) Tax representative transfers money to former JET participant.
Upon payment of the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment, the period of enrollment corresponding to the paid amount is nullified. Therefore, participants from countries having Social Security Agreements with Japan (as of January 2007, Germany, Belgium, France and U.S.A. only) will need to assess the benefit of receiving the refund or combining the coverage periods in Japan and their home country.
DISCLAIMER: The above information is based on a pamphlet issued by the Social Insurance Agency. CLAIR assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of information provided here. This information is intended to help guide former JET Programme participants through the process of filing for the pension refund, but all specific questions and concerns must be addressed directly to the Social Insurance Agency.
