In Japan, rent is widely paid by direct debit — an automatic withdrawal from your bank account (for an overview of payment methods in general, see How to Pay Rent in Japan: Direct Debit, Bank Transfer, and Credit Card). However, getting your direct debit registration set up usually takes about one to two months. This article covers how to use the "payment slip" that arrives during that gap before direct debit begins.
- Setting up direct debit usually takes about one to two months, due to mailing paperwork back and forth and bank-side processing.
- While registration is being processed, your management company or guarantor company will mail a "payment slip" to your mailbox.
- You can pay a payment slip in cash at a convenience store register, or at a bank or Japan Post Bank counter.
- Always keep the receipt — it's your proof of payment.
- Don't leave a payment slip unpaid; pay it before the deadline.
- Once direct debit starts, payment slips stop arriving, so check your account balance before each withdrawal date going forward.
How Rent Is Typically Paid in Japan
In Japanese rentals, rent is typically paid by direct debit — an automatic withdrawal from your bank account. Rent is deducted from a designated account on a set day each month, which saves you the trouble of transferring it yourself and helps avoid missed payments. Because of this, you're usually asked to set up direct debit as part of signing your lease.
Why Direct Debit Registration Takes One to Two Months
Setting up direct debit doesn't happen instantly, though. Because application paperwork needs to be mailed back and forth and the bank has to process the registration, the whole process usually takes around one to two months. Keep in mind that your rent right after moving in will need to be paid some other way, not by direct debit.
What Is the "Payment Slip" That Arrives in the Meantime?
While your direct debit registration is being processed, your management company or guarantor company will mail a "payment slip" to your mailbox. It shows the amount due and the payment deadline, and you use it to pay your rent. Don't throw it away — keep it until you've made the payment.
How to Pay a Payment Slip (Convenience Store or Bank)
You can pay a payment slip in cash at the register of many convenience stores — 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, and others. It's also accepted at bank counters and Japan Post Bank counters. The process is simple: just show the slip at the register or counter and pay the amount listed in cash.
Always Keep the Receipt After Paying
When you pay a payment slip, the convenience store or bank will issue a receipt (or a payment stub). This is your proof that you made the payment, so keep it to avoid any disputes later. It's also useful if your management company or guarantor company ever asks you to confirm payment.
Don't Leave a Payment Slip Unpaid
If you hold onto a payment slip without paying it, it can be treated as an overdue payment. If you don't pay by the deadline, your guarantor company may contact you. Once a slip arrives, it's best to pay it as soon as you reasonably can.
What to Watch for Once Direct Debit Has Started
Once your direct debit registration is complete, payment slips stop arriving. From then on, rent is automatically withdrawn from your designated account, so it's important to check your account balance before each withdrawal date. The exact withdrawal date depends on your contract — for example, "the 27th of each month." If your balance is insufficient, the withdrawal will fail, which can lead to being billed again via a payment slip or being charged a fee.
If You're Unsure, Ask Your Management Company or Agent
If you're ever unsure about how to use a payment slip or how your direct debit registration is progressing, don't hesitate to ask your management company or real estate agent. They can walk you through the status of your registration and let you know when to expect the next payment slip, if any.
FAQ
What should I do if a payment slip doesn't arrive?
Contact your management company or guarantor company to check. Not receiving a payment slip doesn't remove your obligation to pay rent, so it's important to follow up rather than leave it.
Can I pay a payment slip with a credit card at a convenience store?
Payment slips are generally paid in cash. Many convenience stores don't accept credit cards for this kind of payment, so it's best to have cash ready.
How do I know once direct debit has started?
Once direct debit starts, payment slips stop arriving, and you'll see the withdrawal recorded in your passbook or banking app. If you're unsure, it's reassuring to check with your management company.
Summary
Rent in Japan is generally paid by direct debit, but during the one to two months it takes to set up, you'll pay with a payment slip in cash at a convenience store or bank counter. By paying the slip before the deadline and keeping your receipts, you can wait for direct debit to start with peace of mind.