Read the first part of this article here.
In the first part, we looked at cases of companies that received complaints from workers that they suffered disadvantages from not being informed of the system. If companies fail to provide necessary information, they could lose employees’ trust and face trouble later. This part shows other examples shared among companies that exchange information about personnel management affairs.
Provide necessary information to both male and female workers
The special exemption is applied to both male and female workers. Most female workers who had children apply for the special exemption when they end childcare leave and return to work. Meanwhile, when male workers return to work, they mostly resume full-time work, instead of using a shorter work-hour system. This is one reason many companies forget to explain about the special exemption system to male employees.
Many male workers take childcare leave in recent years. When employees return from childcare leave, be sure to ask if they wish to apply for the special exemption.
Briefing for new employees
Please also note that the special exemption must be filed by each company that employs a worker. If a worker who is raising a child under three changes companies, each company must go through the special exemption procedure. Following is an example of a note given to workers who change companies.
Dear A,
As you leave for a new career, please note that the application for the special exemption for working parents must be submitted by each company that employs you. If you wish to apply for the special exemption, please ask the HR of your new company to go through the procedure.
[Important] Each employer must submit application
If you have been employed by multiple companies during the period applicable to special exemption, please submit an application for each employment period.
(The Japan Pension Service, “The use of monthly standardized remuneration immediately preceding a childcare leave period for the calculation of pension benefits”)
Application is filed by request
A company, for example, had two applicable employees around the same time. One of them wished to apply for the special exemption, and the other did not. Companies must note that the application must be made only when a worker so requests. Instead of filing the application automatically, please explain about the system to all applicable workers and ask if they wish to take advantage of the system.
Summary
To enable workers to use the special exemption, the application must be submitted by each company.
- Be sure to provide explanation to all workers who return to work from childcare leave.
- Inform workers who are leaving the company of the need to submit the application through the new employment.
- Understand that it is up to each employee whether to file the application or not.
Please beware of these points to enable workers to enjoy benefits and avoid trouble.
