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Summary
Japanese public pensions are generally paid six times a year, on the 15th day of even-numbered months. If the 15th falls on a weekend or public holiday, payment is moved forward to the previous business day.
Each payment usually covers the two months up to the previous month. For example, the June payment covers April and May.
Payment schedule
| Payment month | Covered months |
|---|---|
| February | December and January |
| April | February and March |
| June | April and May |
| August | June and July |
| October | August and September |
| December | October and November |
If the 15th is a weekend or holiday
Payment is moved to the immediately preceding business day. An early payment does not mean the next cycle becomes shorter, so the money still needs to last until the next regular payment.
First payment
The first pension payment can differ from the normal schedule. Several months may be paid together, or payment may occur in an odd-numbered month because of processing or retroactive payment.
Always check notices from the Japan Pension Service.
Household budgeting
Pensions are paid in two-month units, so the payment should be allocated across fixed costs, food, medical costs, emergency expenses, and future care or housing needs.
A high bank balance just after payment is not necessarily surplus cash.
Investing perspective
Pension payment dates can provide a small clue for elderly consumer spending around supermarkets, drugstores, restaurants, travel, and medical services. But it should never be used alone as a stock-picking signal.
Conclusion
Japanese public pensions are generally paid on the 15th of even-numbered months, with weekends and holidays moved earlier. For household planning, treat each payment as two months of living expenses.