Japanese Business Glossary

請求書 (seikyūsho) refers to an invoice in Japan. This document is issued by a seller or service provider to a buyer or client, detailing the products or services provided and the amount owed. An invoice typically includes important information such as the date of issuance, invoice number, seller's and buyer's contact information, a description of the goods or services, quantities, unit prices, total amount due, payment terms, and due date.

A seikyusho serves several important functions in business transactions. It acts as a formal request for payment, providing a clear record of the transaction and ensuring both parties have the necessary details for accounting and tax purposes. For the seller, issuing an invoice helps track receivables and manage cash flow. For the buyer, it provides a documented expense that can be matched against deliveries or services received and used for internal accounting.

In Japan, proper issuance and management of invoices are crucial for maintaining financial accuracy and compliance with tax regulations. It ensures transparency and accountability in commercial activities, helping both parties to uphold their financial obligations and avoid disputes.

耐用年数 (taiyou nensuu) refers to the useful life or service life of an asset in Japan. This term is used in accounting and taxation to indicate the period over which a fixed asset, such as machinery, equipment, or buildings, is expected to be economically productive and usable. The taiyou nensuu determines the depreciation schedule for the asset, affecting how its cost is allocated over time in financial statements. Properly estimating the taiyou nensuu is crucial for accurate financial reporting and tax calculations. It ensures that the asset's value is appropriately matched with the revenue it generates, providing a realistic view of a company's financial health and operational efficiency. Understanding and applying taiyou nensuu helps businesses comply with accounting standards and tax regulations, while also aiding in strategic planning for asset replacement and investment.

給与収入見積額 (kyūyo shūnyū mitsumori gaku) refers to the estimated amount of income from salaries or wages. This figure is typically used when calculating expected earnings for budgeting, tax purposes, or financial planning. It represents a projection of how much income an individual anticipates receiving from their employment over a specific period, usually a year. Estimating salary income is crucial for understanding one's financial position and making informed decisions regarding expenses, savings, and investments.

適格請求書発行事業者登録番号 (tekikaku seikyūsho hakko jigyosha toroku bango) refers to the Qualified Invoice Issuer Registration Number. This number is assigned to businesses in Japan that are registered to issue qualified invoices under the Japanese consumption tax system.

A qualified invoice includes detailed information required by the tax authorities, such as the seller's registration number, the transaction date, the total amount including tax, and a breakdown of applicable taxes. The registration number ensures that the business is authorized to issue these invoices, which are necessary for buyers to claim input tax credits.

Businesses must apply for this registration to participate in the invoice system, which is part of Japan's efforts to ensure accurate tax reporting and compliance.

貸倒引当金 (kashidaore hikiatekin) refers to a bad debt reserve or allowance for doubtful accounts. This is a financial provision that businesses set aside to cover potential losses from customers who may be unable to pay their debts.

In accounting, this allowance is created to reflect the realistic value of a company's receivables by accounting for the possibility of non-collection. It involves estimating the amount of receivables that are unlikely to be collected and recording this estimate as an expense, which reduces the net income. The corresponding allowance is recorded on the balance sheet as a contra asset account, reducing the total accounts receivable.

By maintaining a kashidaore hikiatekin, companies can better manage their financial health and ensure more accurate financial reporting.

預貯金 (yochokin) refers to deposits and savings held in financial institutions such as banks and credit unions. This term encompasses both ordinary deposits, which can be easily accessed and withdrawn, and time deposits, which are held for a fixed period and typically offer higher interest rates.

Yochokin is a fundamental aspect of personal and business finance in Japan, providing a safe place to store money while earning interest. These funds can be used for various purposes, including daily expenses, emergencies, and long-term financial planning. Maintaining yochokin helps ensure financial stability and liquidity, allowing individuals and businesses to manage their finances effectively and plan for future needs.