Babysitter costs subsidized up to ¥2,500 an hour, 144 hours a year

When you hire a babysitter temporarily for unexpected circumstances, social participation or similar, the city subsidizes part of the fee. The subsidy limit is ¥2,500 per hour from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and ¥3,500 per hour from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. the next day. It covers children from age 0 to before elementary school who are registered as residents of Shinjuku City on the day of use. The subsidy is available for up to 144 hours a year per child, and up to 288 hours a year per child for multiples. It covers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so it can also be used for care at night and on holidays. The FY2026 (April 2026–March 2027) covered period is April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027, and applications are accepted from May 1, 2026 to April 9, 2027. From use on or after October 1, 2026, care of up to 2 siblings aged 1 or older at home by one sitter who is a childcare worker or nurse is also covered if requirements such as the parent's written consent are met (some providers do not offer this). From April 2026, inquiries and document submissions go to the contracted provider KDC Co., Ltd. (0120-557-883).