How Unemployed Individuals Can Borrow Money: A Comprehensive Guide

For Homemakers

Homemakers with no personal income may still be eligible for loans if their spouse has a stable income. Lenders consider the spouse's income as a form of collateral to ensure repayment.

Bank Card Loans are the Best Option

Since homemakers lack personal income, they are ineligible for consumer finance loans regulated by the Total Debt Limit (総量規制). However, banks, which are governed by the Banking Act, are exempt from this rule, making them a viable option for homemakers.

Total Debt Limit: This law limits individual borrowing to one-third of their annual income, implemented in 2010 to prevent excessive debt.

For Pension Recipients

Some financial institutions consider pensions as “stable income” and offer loans to pension recipients. .

Both consumer finance companies and banks may provide such loans, as pensions are legally recognized as income

However, age restrictions often pose a challenge for pension recipients, as the risk of death during repayment increases with age. Most financial institutions set borrowing age limits between 20 and 65–69 years old.

Recommended Loan: Saison Fundex's "Simple and Secure Card Loan"Eligibility:Individuals up to 80 years old Features: Same-day loans available

Pension-Backed Loans

The Welfare and Medical Service Agency, overseen by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, offers loans secured by pensions. This is the only legal option for borrowing against pensions, as doing so through other lenders is prohibited.

The loan limit is set at 80% of the pension amount, allowing for borrowing between ¥100,000 and ¥2,000,000 (¥100,000 to ¥800,000 if the purpose is for "essential living items"). With an interest rate of 2.1%, which is significantly lower than standard card loans, and a repayment plan starting at ¥10,000 per installment, this program is designed to be user-friendly.

Note: This loan cannot be used for entertainment expenses, and applicants must provide documents specifying the loan’s purpose and required amount.

When applying, you are required to submit one of the following documents: National Pension Certificate, Employees' Pension Certificate, Employees' Pension Insurance Certificate, Seamen's Insurance Pension Certificate, or Workers' Accident Compensation Insurance Pension Certificate. Additionally, since this loan has specific usage restrictions, you will need to provide documentation detailing the purpose of the funds and the required amount.

Eligible Uses:

The repayment amount is automatically deducted from the pension payment, and the remaining balance is transferred as the pension. The minimum repayment per installment is ¥10,000, and the maximum is within one-third of the pension amount. The repayment amount can be specified by the applicant.

Case of Unemployed Individuals Without a Spouse

For those without a spouse or with a spouse who also lacks income, obtaining a loan can be extremely difficult. Financial institutions are reluctant to lend money to individuals with a high risk of non-repayment.

Unemployed individuals should consider government or municipal loan programs, such as the "Comprehensive Support Fund" or the "Living Welfare Fund Loan Program." These programs are aimed at low-income households and provide interest-free or low-interest loans.

To utilize these loan programs, certain conditions and screenings are required. Start by consulting the welfare department of your local municipality.

Summary

There are no services that allow unemployed individuals to easily borrow money. You might come across advertisements claiming "Same-day loans for unemployed people!" but remember that such lenders are likely to be illegal loan sharks.

Generally, being unemployed makes it difficult to obtain loans through card loans. If you wish to use card loans, consider starting a part-time or temporary job, which is relatively easy to secure.