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免税事業者
[menzei jigyosha] - a tax-exempt business or individual

免税事業者 (menzei jigyosha) refers to a tax-exempt business or individual in Japan. These entities are exempt from the obligation to collect and remit consumption tax (similar to VAT or sales tax) on their sales.

Typically, small businesses and freelancers with annual taxable sales below a certain threshold qualify as tax-exempt businesses. This threshold is currently set at 10 million yen, meaning businesses or individuals with taxable sales below this amount in a base period (usually the previous fiscal year) are not required to charge consumption tax on their goods or services.

Being a tax-exempt business simplifies tax reporting and reduces administrative burdens, as these businesses do not need to account for consumption tax in their transactions. However, they also cannot claim input tax credits for the consumption tax paid on their purchases.

This status can be advantageous for small businesses and startups by lowering their tax liabilities and easing their entry into the market. Understanding the requirements and benefits of being a tax exempt business is crucial for effective financial planning and compliance with Japanese tax regulations.


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See Also

源泉徴収税   [gensen choshūzei] - withholding tax

源泉徴収税 (gensen choshūzei) translates to "withholding tax" in English.

It refers to the tax deducted at the source of income, meaning the payer of the income withholds a portion of the payment and pays it directly to the tax authorities. This system ensures that taxes are collected in advance and helps to prevent tax evasion.

In Japan, withholding tax is commonly applied to various types of income, including salaries, bonuses, interest, dividends, and certain payments to non-residents. Employers, financial institutions, and other entities responsible for making payments must withhold the appropriate amount of tax and remit it to the National Tax Agency.

The rates and specific rules for withholding tax can vary depending on the type of income and the residency status of the recipient. For example, the standard withholding tax rate on salary income for residents is based on progressive tax rates, while non-residents might face a flat rate on certain types of income.

Properly managing withholding tax obligations is crucial for businesses operating in Japan to remain compliant with tax regulations.

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控除   [kojo] - a tax deduction in Japan

控除 (kojo) is a tax deduction in Japan. It refers to the amounts that can be subtracted from an individual's total income to reduce their taxable income. By lowering the taxable income, tax deductions can significantly decrease the amount of tax an individual owes.

Various types of deductions are available, each designed to provide financial relief for specific circumstances. Common deductions includes those for dependents, medical expenses, social insurance premiums, and mortgage interest. For instance, the spousal deduction and dependent deduction help families reduce their tax burden by acknowledging the financial responsibilities of supporting a spouse or dependents.

To claim these deductions, taxpayers must provide the necessary documentation and meet certain eligibility criteria. Properly utilizing deductions are crucial for effective tax planning, as it can lead to substantial tax savings. Understanding and applying the appropriate deductions can help individuals manage their finances better and ensure compliance with tax regulations.

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青色申告会   [aoiro shinkoku kai] - Blue Return Association

青色申告会 (aoiro shinkoku kai) is a Japanese term that translates to "Blue Return Association" in English. This association supports individuals and small business owners who choose to file their taxes using the blue return system, which is a more detailed and beneficial tax filing method in Japan.

The blue return system (青色申告, aoiro shinkoku) offers various tax advantages, such as higher deductible expenses and special allowances. Members of a 青色申告会 can receive guidance, resources, and assistance in preparing and submitting their blue returns accurately and efficiently. These associations often provide seminars, workshops, and personalized consultations to help members maximize their tax benefits.

Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

免税事業者 (menzei jigyosha) refers to a tax-exempt business or individual in Japan. These entities are exempt from the obligation to collect and remit consumption tax (similar to VAT or sales tax) on their sales.


A tax-exempt business or individual is 免税事業者 (menzei jigyosha) in Japanese.




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