Japan to increase Pensioner Support Benefit by 3.2 percent in 2026

The Pensioner Support Benefit in Japan is scheduled to increase by 3.2 percent in fiscal year 2026. This benefit is provided to individuals whose public pension income and other income fall below specific thresholds. There are three types of benefits available: Old-age, Disability, and Survivor benefits.

For the Old-age Pensioner Support Benefit, eligibility requires the recipient to be 65 or older, a recipient of the Old-age Basic Pension, and for all members of the household to be exempt from municipal inhabitant tax. The specific income requirements vary based on whether the individual was born before or after April 2, 1956.

To receive these benefits, applicants must complete a formal claim procedure; they are not distributed automatically. The Japan Pension Service notifies eligible individuals via mail, and the application process differs depending on whether the individual is a new applicant turning 65 or an existing recipient.