TOKYO: The Japanese government is preparing to start cash relief that will be paid directly to workers on leave due to the novel coronavirus crisis, Jiji Press learned Tuesday.

To help workers on leave who suffer income drops, the government has expanded employment adjustment subsidies for companies that grant paid leave to employees.

But many employers choose not to apply for the subsidies because it takes time and effort to make applications. Furthermore, the subsidies do not cover all of the costs for paid leave.

The situation has led the government to consider starting new cash benefits for workers not granted paid leave, informed sources said.

Under the new relief program, workers would apply for benefits online or by mail. The program is expected to cover employees of small and midsize companies.

The government will also consider paying the envisioned benefits to nonregular workers who work less than 20 hours a week and stay outside the coverage of the employment insurance.

The government has launched a cash relief program for freelance workers who take leave because they need to take care of children due to school closures. The program pays each recipient a uniform 4,100 yen per day.

JIJI Press