SUMMARY This paper evaluates the livelihood recovery programs in the affected area of the Great East Japan Earthquake disasters, conducted by NPO/NGOs, private companies and governments. This was the first disaster in Japan that a large number of Cash for Work CFW or similar program were introduced during the response and recovery process from the damage. CFW programs were generally better conducted than the cases in developing countries. The reason was 1 few people were forced to work since the unconditional transfer program, 2 each program were so small in numbers of workers that compliance with labor laws were secured, and 3 so various kind of jobs, not only manual but also non-manual jobs were provided that women and the elderly could also take part in the program. Key words disaster recovery, Cash for Work CFW, jobs and livelihood, economic recovery