Best Tax Lawyers in Japan

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SHUSAKU YAMAMOTO
Osaka, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
What it means to serve our clientsBecause of the breadth, depth and diversity of technological and legal experience of the SHUSAKU·YAMAMOTO team, we have extensive expertise in serving and protecting anything under the sun that is made by man.Check out the far-ranging Nikkei Leadership Interview...
DT LEGAL
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
Innovation, transformation and leadership occur in many ways. At Deloitte, our ability to help solve clients’ most complex issues is distinct. We deliver strategy and implementation, from a business and technology view, to help you lead in the markets where you compete.Innovation, transformation...
Yokohama Partner Law Office
Yokohama, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
When I was little, I loved "The Crying Red Demon." This is a fairy tale by Hirosuke Hamada. Red Demon wants to get along with humans, but everyone is afraid of him. So, I put up a sign in front of my house to try to get people to come visit me.I am a kind-hearted demon.Anyone is welcome to come.We...
MORI HAMADA & MATSUMOTO
Chiyoda-ku, Japan

Founded in 2002
50 people in their team
Mori Hamada & Matsumoto is a full service law firm that has served clients with distinction since its establishment, in December 2002, by the merger of Mori Sogo and Hamada & Matsumoto. Even as business conditions have rapidly shifted both within Japan and internationally, the firm’s goal...
K&L GATES
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 1946
5,000 people in their team
Japanese
English
The legal market is rapidly changing, and so is the practice of law. It is both science and art. Clients want their law firm to be diligent and meticulous, but they also want it to solve problems with innovation and creativity. At the heart of our ethos is an inclusive and collaborative...
Daiichi Law Offices
Osaka, Japan

Founded in 1964
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
Founded in Osaka in 1964, Daiichi Legal Professional Corporation is a full-service commercial law firm representing domestic and global companies through its Tokyo and Osaka offices. We also assist individuals in the areas of wills and estate as well as criminal defense mostly on white-collar...
MORRISON FOERSTER
Chiyoda-ku, Japan

Founded in 1883
5,000 people in their team
Japanese
English
Morrison Foerster transforms complexity into advantage. With our collective intelligence, we shape powerful legal strategies that move your business forward while living our shared values.We solve your most critical multidimensional challenges in a way that provides clarity around the risk you are...
Tokorozawa, Japan

Founded in 1994
3 people in their team
English
Tokunaga Law Offices is a community-rooted, comprehensive law firm that has served clients in Tokorozawa for three decades, handling a broad range of matters from personal legal issues to domestic and international corporate matters.Located within a one-minute walk of Tokorozawa Station, the firm...

Founded in 2013
200 people in their team
Japanese
English
FirmThe leading Japanese law office ATSUMI & SAKAI and JANSSEN FOREIGN LAW OFFICE have entered into a Foreign Law Joint Enterprise to form integrated legal teams in the closest form of cooperation between Japanese and foreign lawyers. In this way, we combine the bridge function of a foreign law...
Venture Lab Law Office
Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2019
5 people in their team
English
Venture Lab Law Office provides high quality legal services to venture businesses, startups and small to medium enterprises in Japan. The firm emphasizes practical, business-focused counsel that integrates legal expertise with strategic planning, helping clients navigate complex regulatory...
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About Tax Law in Japan

Tax Law in Japan is a comprehensive system that governs the collection of taxes by the national and local governments. It includes income tax, corporation tax, consumption tax (similar to VAT), and other types of taxes, which are pivotal to Japan's economy. The Japanese tax system is characterized by a progressive rate structure, especially for income tax, and has undergone various reforms to adapt to the changing economic landscape. Both residents and non-residents who have earned income in Japan are subject to taxation, with specific exemptions and deductions available that can influence tax liabilities.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer for tax-related matters in Japan may be necessary in a variety of scenarios. If you are a business owner navigating the complexities of corporate tax, legal help can assist with compliance and optimization of tax positions. Individuals dealing with inheritance or gift taxes may also require expert legal advice to understand obligations and potential exemptions. Additionally, if you are facing audits or disputes with tax authorities, a lawyer can represent your interests and ensure your rights are protected. For expatriates, understanding cross-border taxation issues can be complex, necessitating professional guidance to avoid double taxation.

Local Laws Overview

Japanese tax law encompasses a variety of local regulations that can affect both individuals and businesses. Key aspects include:

  • Income Tax: Both residents and non-residents who earn income in Japan are required to file income taxes. Residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on their Japanese-sourced income.
  • Consumption Tax: The consumption tax rate is currently set at 10%, encompassing both national and local components. Businesses must register and comply with consumption tax requirements.
  • Corporate Tax: Japanese corporations are subject to national corporate tax, local enterprise tax, and inhabitants tax, each with its own rate structure.
  • Inheritance and Gift Tax: These taxes are levied based on the residency of both the donor/deceased and beneficiary, which can impact tax liability significantly.
  • Tax Treaties: Japan has numerous tax treaties with other countries to prevent double taxation and facilitate international investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tax year in Japan?

The tax year in Japan runs from January 1 to December 31.

Who is considered a resident for tax purposes in Japan?

A resident is someone who has a domicile in Japan, or has resided in Japan for more than one year.

What is the process for filing tax returns in Japan?

Tax returns are typically filed by March 15 of the following year. Returns can be filed electronically or by submitting necessary documentation to the local tax office.

Are there any significant deductions available for individual taxpayers?

Yes, deductions in Japan's tax system include those for social insurance premiums, medical expenses, life insurance, and more.

How are foreign income and overseas assets reported?

Residents of Japan must report their worldwide income and disclose overseas assets exceeding a certain threshold.

What is the penalty for late filing or payment of taxes?

Penalties can include fines, interest on overdue taxes, and other charges, which increase with the duration of the delay.

How is consumption tax different from sales tax?

Consumption tax is levied at a consistent rate and is similar to VAT, applied at each stage of the sales process, rather than just at retail.

Is there a tax credit available for foreign taxes paid?

Yes, Japan offers a foreign tax credit to avoid double taxation on the same income.

How can expatriates ensure compliance with Japanese tax laws?

Expatriates should seek professional advice for cross-border tax issues and consider filing for applicable exemptions or treaty benefits.

What is the government's approach to tax evasion in Japan?

The Japanese government takes a stringent approach to tax evasion, employing audits and investigations to ensure compliance.

Additional Resources

For more information, individuals and businesses can refer to the following resources:

  • National Tax Agency (NTA): The NTA provides comprehensive guidelines, forms, and updates on tax regulations.
  • Japan Federation of Certified Public Tax Accountants' Associations: A professional body supporting tax accountants and offering resources for taxpayers.
  • Ministry of Finance Japan: Oversees fiscal policy, including tax, and offers insights into current tax policies and laws.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance for tax issues in Japan, it is advisable to consult with a qualified tax attorney or accountant. Start by:

  • Gathering your financial records and relevant documents.
  • Identifying specific areas or issues where you need assistance.
  • Researching and selecting a legal expert or tax professional with experience in Japanese tax law.
  • Contacting the professional for an initial consultation to discuss your situation and explore possible solutions.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Japan through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Tax, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.