When Things Go Wrong – Part 2
Small Overpayments = Big Headache A group of teachers were union members working at a university. Over a series of…
When Things Go Wrong – Part 1
Over the past few weeks, we have posted several articles about the importance of reading your payslip to make sure…
Workers Deserve Their Pensions: Interac Lawsuit Begins June 25
One of our members has filed a lawsuit against Interac Kanto South Co., Ltd. at the Tokyo District Court. The…
Extra Payments – Part 3
Records for Reimbursements Ethan* worked at an English conversation school. From time to time, he would buy materials for the…
Extra Payments – Part 2
Is the fare fair? Lisa* regularly took the train to work and was given a transportation allowance in advance to…
Toshiaki Asari Memorial Fund
Toshiaki Asari, former Chair of the General Union, passed away suddenly in May 2026. Toshi gave many years of service…
Extra Payments – Part 1
Everyone likes it when there is extra money showing up on their payslip. But what happens when it doesn’t appear…
Deductions – Part 3
They can do that?! Ryan* resigned from his job in March. He requested to see the payslip in advance of…
Deductions – Part 2
Why wasn’t I deducted? Ashley* has worked in Japan for 5 years and changed jobs last May. She started receiving…
Deductions – Part 1
In Japan, your employer is legally required to deduct certain items from your salary such as income tax, company insurance…
Introducing General Union Theme Months 2026–2027
At the General Union, we believe that knowledge is one of the strongest tools workers have. This year, we are…