0.23% surcharge on medical insurance — single/childless foreigners pay too
From April 2026, a "Child Care Support Levy" is added to health insurance premiums. The levy rate is 0.23%, meaning a standard employee (¥300,000 standard monthly remuneration) pays about ¥500 more per month. This funds measures against declining birth rates (expanded child allowance, birth/childcare support payments, etc.). Everyone enrolled in health insurance is subject, including singles and those without children.
From the April 2026 payslip, the "Child Care Support Levy" may appear as a new line item. However, many companies include it in the health insurance total, so you may just see the insurance amount increase. Take-home pay will definitely decrease.
National Health Insurance (NHI) members also have the levy added. Specific amounts vary by municipality, but an annual increase of roughly ¥5,000-7,000 is expected.
From May 2026 meter reading, the renewable energy surcharge rises from ¥3.98 to ¥4.18/kWh. ~¥52/month more for 260kWh usage. Winter heating costs increase further. Electricity bills have been rising continuously since 2024.
Energy subsidy ended with March 2026 usage. ¥3,000+/month increase from April. Renewable surcharge hits record ¥3.98/kWh.
April 2026: electricity (+¥450/month), gas (+¥170/month), 200+ food items, and social insurance all going up simultaneously.