#Tokyo #Jun Ono #Employment Insurance #Retraining Benefits

Understanding the Risks of Retraining Benefits

Japan has recently introduced a new program known as the Educational Training Allowance, designed to provide financial support for individuals who take time off work to pursue further learning. While at first glance, this scheme seems like an excellent opportunity for personal and professional development, it is crucial for potential applicants to understand the hidden risks involved, particularly concerning unemployment benefits.

The Mechanism of the Educational Training Allowance

The Educational Training Allowance allows employees to receive financial assistance during their study period, but there’s a significant caveat: receiving this allowance resets the individual's “insured period” for unemployment insurance. Simply put, if you accept this financial aid, you may become ineligible to receive basic unemployment benefits in case you lose your job afterwards. Thus, this scheme is primarily designed for those who are committed to returning to their companies after completing their studies.

Who Should Consider This Program?

The target audience for this program is quite specific. It is ideally suited for individuals who can clearly articulate how they plan to apply what they learn back to their workplace. Those who aim to study with the hope of leaving their current positions may find this program unsuitable. The structure intends to discourage individuals from applying merely to take advantage of the benefits without a commitment to their workplace.

Important Considerations When Applying

Before applying for these benefits, it is essential to reflect on various questions:
1. Will using the educational training allowance impact my eligibility for unemployment benefits? - Yes, as mentioned, accepting these funds will reset your insured status.
2. What does resetting my “insured period” mean? - This means that your history of contributions to the unemployment insurance system will be altered, which could affect future claims.
3. Who is this program suitable for, and who should avoid it? - It’s suitable for those aspiring to gain skills that will directly benefit their current employers. Conversely, it may not be right for individuals seeking to change careers immediately.
4. What should I be cautious about during my application? - Ensure that you have a clear plan on how the education will translate to your job.

Upcoming Seminar: Dive Deeper into the Educational Training Allowance

To help individuals navigate these questions, a seminar is scheduled:

• - Date: October 30, 2025
• - Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
• - Host: Crea Human Resources Development Association
• - Location: 6F Kioicho Headquarters Building, 3-12 Kioicho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

This event will provide insights into how to leverage retraining benefits effectively while understanding their potential limitations.

Meet the Expert

The seminar will feature Jun Ono, a certified social insurance labor consultant, known for conducting over 400 harassment and labor training sessions in various corporate and educational settings. His practical approach emphasizes how to effectively integrate legal knowledge into real-world applications. Additionally, he supervises and teaches for the Employment Clean Planner qualification, underlining his commitment to promoting a safe and fair workplace.

About Crea Human Resources Development Association

Established in 2023 as a subsidiary of Company SA, Crea focuses on training and certification related to employment, labor, and harassment prevention. Their efforts aim at providing practical knowledge that supports working individuals and their families, ensuring a cleaner employment landscape. Over 650 professionals have attained the