Daily Life
	Financial Institutions (Using Your Account)

"I would like to open an account." Koza o hirakitai no desuga.

How to Open an Account

To apply to open a bank or post office account, you will need some form of identification which verifies your name and address, such as your alien registration card, as well as your name seal (you can operate the account with your signature if you do not have a name seal). It is also convenient to apply for a cash card when you open an account.

Sending Money Overseas

From a Bank

Remittances can be made by having the bank send the money directly to the other person's bank account, or by buying a bank check for overseas remittance and sending it yourself.

From a Post Office

Remittances can also be made from post offices by sending them to the postal bureau of the other person's country or to the other person's post office account.

Payment for Utilities

Automatic account transfer services are available for paying the bills for your utilities - electricity, gas, water and telephone. Apply for this service at the bank or post office.

At some places, you can use a cash card on holidays and in the evening to conduct certain types of transactions when the bank or post office is closed. Check the hours of operation and operating method in advance so that you will be prepared in case of an emergency. If you lose your cash card, be sure to notify the bank or post office immediately.

Closing Your Account

While post office accounts can be closed anywhere in the country, you must close your bank account at the specific branch office where you have the account. If you use a name seal to operate your account, you must have it to close your account.