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…
Language Schools
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…
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…
Toshiaki Asari (1949–2026)
At the General Union’s Annual General Meeting on 17 May, Toshi Asari was re-elected as Chair. He wasn’t in the…
Labor Bulletin #243
This bulletin contains information on law changes that have either passed or are being discussed in parliament, court decisions, and…
Labor Bulletin #242
This bulletin contains information on law changes that have either passed or are being discussed in parliament, court decisions, and…
ALT Workers Push Back on Instability and Call for Industry-Wide Change
ALT workers across Japan are facing a system built on short-term contracts, unclear expectations, and constant uncertainty. At this week’s…
Private Language School Teachers Meet to Tackle Workplace Issues and Build for 2026
Annual General Meetings for General Union branches kicked off this past week ahead of the union-wide Annual General Meeting on…