Housing Security Benefit (Rent Support): Eligibility & How to Apply [2026]

The Housing Security Benefit pays an amount equivalent to your rent for a limited period when paying rent becomes difficult due to job loss or reduced income. Foreign residents with a work-eligible status and resident registration are also covered.

① Who is eligible

• The main breadwinner is within 2 years of leaving/closing a job, or income has dropped to a similar level through no fault of their own
• Household income is below a set base amount plus rent
• Household savings/assets are at most 6x the base amount (capped at ¥1,000,000)
• You carry out job-seeking activities at Hello Work, etc.

② Amount & duration

The amount is set within a local cap (based on the public-assistance housing allowance) according to your rent. The period is 3 months in principle (up to 9 months). Rent is paid directly to your landlord/agent by the municipality.

③ Job-seeking requirements

• Interviews at the self-reliance support office (4+ times/month)
• Registering and consulting at Hello Work (2+ times/month)
• Applying to jobs (1+ time/week)

* Requirements may differ slightly when claiming due to reduced income.

④ How to apply

Consult and apply at your municipal self-reliance support office (the support window for people in financial difficulty).

• ID (Residence Card, etc.)
• Proof of income/assets (payslips, bankbook)
• Proof of job loss or income reduction
• Your lease agreement

If job loss or reduced income makes rent hard to pay, consider the Housing Security Benefit alongside unemployment benefit.

FAQ

Can foreigners apply?Yes, if you have a work-eligible residence status and resident registration.

Is the rent paid to me?No. It is generally paid directly to your landlord/agent by the municipality.

Can I receive it together with unemployment benefit?It is possible, but the benefit counts as income and may affect the amount. Check with your local office.