Question from a reader:
If a person receiving welfare has their standard burden amount for living therapy reduced to 110 yen for food expenses, does that mean they no longer need welfare? Specifically, I want to know if they can continue to receive welfare under the conditions of having 0 yen for housing costs and 110 yen for food expenses.

Considerations on
Welfare and Standard Burden Amount for Living Therapy

Recently, a question was raised: “If a person receiving welfare has their standard burden amount for living therapy reduced to 110 yen for food expenses, does that mean they no longer need welfare?” This requires a deep consideration from both legal and psychological perspectives. Let’s take a closer look, taking into account actual living conditions and emotions.

Basic Understanding of the Welfare System

First, let’s establish a basic understanding of the welfare system. Welfare is a system designed to ensure that those in financial distress can secure a minimum standard of living, with the government providing support for living expenses, medical costs, and housing expenses. This system targets individuals in difficult living situations, and the support provided varies based on individual circumstances. When determining eligibility for welfare, various conditions are considered, among which the “standard burden amount for living therapy” is an important factor. This is related to the so-called “welfare standards” and indicates the extent of living expenses that will be provided to recipients. A reduction of food expenses to 110 yen suggests a very severe living situation.

Situation of 0 Yen for Housing Costs and 110 Yen for Food Expenses

Now, can a person continue to receive welfare under the conditions of having 0 yen for housing costs and 110 yen for food expenses? Let’s consider this point. Having 0 yen for housing costs means that for some reason, housing expenses are waived. For example, this could be the case if they are living with their parents or staying in a shelter. In such situations, the necessity for welfare may be considered relatively low. However, a food expense of 110 yen indicates a very harsh situation. Such a low food budget likely means a significant lack of basic nutrition necessary for daily life. To maintain health, a proper diet is essential. Therefore, even if housing costs are 0 yen, if the burden of food expenses is this heavy, there remains a reason to require welfare.

Analysis from a Legal Perspective

Legally, welfare is provided based on the “minimum living standards,” so even if housing costs are 0 yen, if necessary expenses such as food are not covered, there is a possibility that eligibility for welfare may be recognized. Article 4 of the Welfare Act states that necessary support will be provided based on the judgment of the welfare office. In this case, the judgment of the welfare office becomes crucial. They will thoroughly assess the recipient’s living conditions and determine whether welfare is necessary. The fact that food expenses are 110 yen indicates a situation where adequate nutrition cannot be obtained, so it is conceivable that the continuation of welfare may be recognized.

Psychological Aspects

Now, I would also like to consider the psychological aspects. Receiving welfare often comes with a mental burden. The perceptions of those around you and your own feelings can influence this, leading to negative emotions about receiving assistance. The reality of having only 110 yen for food is likely to cause significant stress both mentally and physically. I have a friend who is receiving welfare. While he was able to obtain the necessary support, he struggled with the gaze of those around him. He often found himself asking, “How did I end up living like this?” In his case, housing costs were waived, but as a result, his food expenses were limited, forcing him into an extremely unbalanced diet. In such situations, it is essential to consider not only whether welfare can be legally received but also the mental health aspect. Insufficient meals can greatly impact mental well-being. Nutritional deficiencies can drain energy and lead to difficulties in daily life.

Conclusion: The Necessity of Welfare and Future Directions

As discussed, whether one can continue to receive welfare under the conditions of having 0 yen for housing costs and 110 yen for food expenses is legally possible. However, it is clear that behind this lies a psychological burden and the need for further support when considering the quality of life. The welfare system is an important support for recipients to maintain a minimum standard of living. Situations like reduced food expenses or waived housing costs may superficially lower the necessity for welfare, but in reality, the quality of life and mental health of the individual should be taken into account. Regarding the use of the welfare system, it is vital for recipients to have a clear understanding of their living situation and to seek the necessary support. Understanding from those around them is also needed, and improvements to the system itself should be sought. I sincerely hope for a society where prejudice against receiving welfare diminishes, allowing everyone to receive the necessary support with peace of mind.