I think that people should recognize some benefit from the My Number system even if it does have some problems.
First, Japan has had no identification number like the Social Security number in the U.S. I believe that the lack of such a system allows a lot of people to evade taxes and commit financial crimes more easily.
Second, under the Japanese taxation system, company workers' income tax is deducted at the source and there are few opportunities to evade taxes. On the other hand, self-employed individuals file their own returns, and some have abused this system. I think My Number will prevent them from evading taxes and improve the gap between company employees and the self- employed in terms of income tax equality.
Finally, the complicated social welfare system, ranging from health insurance to the national pension to livelihood protection, makes it ripe for abuse. I expect the new system to improve this situation.
A number-based ID system is common in developed countries and the authorities should explain its objective and benefits thoroughly to alleviate public fears over My Number.
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.