Japanese Business Glossary

専従者 (senjuusha) refers to a dedicated worker or full-time worker in Japan. This term is commonly used in the context of family-run businesses or sole proprietorships where family members work full-time in the business. These individuals are not merely assisting part-time but are fully engaged in the day-to-day operations and management of the business. Recognizing someone as a senjuusha has implications for tax purposes, as the business owner can deduct a certain portion of the salary paid to these family members from their taxable income. This designation helps formalize the contributions of family members and provides a clearer structure for financial and operational responsibilities within the business.

社会保障費 (shakai hoshou-hi) refers to social security expenses in Japan. These expenses cover a range of public welfare programs designed to provide financial support and services to citizens. The primary components of social security costs include pensions, healthcare, unemployment benefits, and welfare services. These funds are crucial for supporting the aging population, aiding those with disabilities, and ensuring that unemployed individuals receive temporary financial assistance. Social security expenses are funded through taxes and contributions from both employers and employees, playing a vital role in maintaining social stability and economic security in Japan.

相続人 (sozokunin) refers to an heir or beneficiary in Japan. This term describes individuals who inherit the assets, rights, and obligations of a deceased person under Japanese inheritance law. The process of inheritance involves transferring the decedent's property, debts, and other legal responsibilities to their designated heirs.

In Japan, the Civil Code outlines the rules for inheritance, specifying who qualifies as a sozokunin and the order of priority among potential heirs. Typically, the decedent's spouse and children are the primary heirs. If there are no children, the inheritance may pass to the decedent's parents, siblings, or other relatives.

The proportion of the inheritance each heir receives depends on their relationship to the deceased and whether a valid will is in place. If a will exists, it can specify different distributions, but certain legal restrictions ensure that close family members receive a minimum share, known as the "statutory reserved portion."

The inheritance process begins with identifying all heirs and assessing the decedent's assets and liabilities. Heirs may need to complete legal procedures such as probate, which involves validating the will (if any) and formally transferring ownership of the assets. They must also address any outstanding debts and tax obligations of the deceased.

Understanding the roles and responsibilities of a sozokunin is crucial for managing the inheritance process smoothly and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. This knowledge helps heirs protect their rights and fulfill their obligations during the transfer of the decedent's estate.

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.

配偶者 (haiguusha) is the Japanese term for a spouse, referring to a husband or wife in a marital relationship. This term is commonly used in legal, social, and official contexts to identify one's partner in marriage. In Japan, a haiguusha has specific legal rights and obligations, including those related to inheritance, taxation, and social security benefits. For example, married individuals may receive tax deductions for a dependent spouse, and they may also be entitled to survivor benefits under social security. Understanding the role and rights of a spouse is important for navigating various aspects of personal and legal matters within the context of marriage.

仮想通貨 (kasoutsuuka) refers to virtual currency or cryptocurrency in Japan. These digital assets use cryptographic technologies to secure transactions and control the creation of new units. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments, kasoutsuuka operates on decentralized networks based on blockchain technology. Popular examples include Bitcoin and Ethereum. In Japan, kasoutsuuka is recognized as a legal method of payment, and its use is regulated under the Payment Services Act. This regulatory framework ensures transparency and security in transactions, protecting consumers and fostering trust in the digital economy. Understanding kasoutsuuka is crucial for anyone involved in digital finance, investment, or technology sectors, as it represents a significant shift in how value is exchanged and stored globally.