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High-Cost Long-Term Care Service Fee: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how to claim a refund for high monthly care service co-pays that exceed your household's income-based cap in Japan.

This scheme helps families manage the financial burden of elderly care by capping monthly out-of-pocket expenses.

Who it's for

This is for households that are paying high monthly co-payments for long-term care services.

What you get

You can receive a refund for co-pay amounts that exceed a specific monthly cap. This cap is determined based on your household's income.

What it costs you

There is no direct cost to apply, but you will need to complete an application process. While some households receive these benefits automatically, others must take action to claim them.

The catch to know

The process is not automatic in every city. You must check with your local municipality to see if you need to file a claim manually to receive your refund.

How to apply

  1. Check with your local municipal office to see if you qualify.
  2. Confirm whether your specific municipality processes these refunds automatically or requires a manual application.
  3. If a manual application is required, submit the necessary paperwork to your local office.
  4. Follow up with your municipality to ensure your refund is being processed.