Japanese Business Glossary

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 This term encompasses both ordinary deposits, which can be easily accessed and withdrawn, and time deposits, which are held for a fixed period and typically offer higher interest rates.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.

マイナポータル (Maina Potaru) refers to "MyNa Portal" short for "My Number Portal," an online service platform provided by the Japanese government. This portal allows residents to access various administrative services and personal information securely and conveniently.

Through MyNa Portal, users can view and manage their social security and tax information, check their pension records, apply for government services, and receive notifications about important updates. The platform is part of the broader My Number system, which assigns a unique identification number to each resident for more efficient and streamlined public administration.

Using the My Number Portal helps individuals stay informed about their entitlements and obligations, facilitates easier interaction with government agencies, and supports transparent and efficient public service delivery.

マイナ保険証 (maina hokensho) refers the integration of the national health insurance card with the My Number Card, a personal identification card introduced as part of the My Number system (Social Security and Tax Number System in Japan).

The integration allows individuals to use their My Number Card as their health insurance card when visiting medical institutions. This integration aims to streamline administrative processes, reduce paperwork, and improve the efficiency of medical services.

To use the My Number Card as a health insurance card, individuals must register their health insurance information with the My Number Card. Once registered, they can present the card at hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to verify their health insurance coverage, simplifying the process of accessing healthcare services. This system also facilitates the sharing of medical information among healthcare providers, enhancing the quality of care.

弔慰金 (choi-kin) refers to condolence money in Japan. This is a monetary gift given to the family or relatives of a deceased person as an expression of sympathy and support during their time of mourning. It is a common cultural practice in Japan, reflecting respect and solidarity with the bereaved family.

The amount of 弔慰金 can vary depending on the relationship to the deceased and the customs of the specific region or community. It is often given in an envelope, typically during the funeral or memorial services.

In the context of employment, companies may also provide 弔慰金 to the family of a deceased employee as part of their welfare and benefits policies. This gesture helps to support the family financially during a difficult time and shows the company's care and concern for its employees and their families.

財産 (zaisan) refers to property or assets in Japan. This term encompasses all forms of wealth owned by an individual or entity, including both tangible and intangible assets.

Tangible assets (有形資産 = yūkei shisan) include physical items such as real estate, vehicles, equipment, and personal belongings. Intangible assets (無形資産 = mukei shisan) include non-physical items such as stocks, bonds, intellectual property, patents, and copyrights.

Zaisan can also cover financial assets like cash, bank deposits, and investments. In legal and financial contexts, managing and protecting one's assets involves various activities such as estate planning, asset management, and tax planning.

任意団体 (nini dantai) refers to a voluntary organization or unincorporated association in Japan. This type of organization is formed by individuals or groups who come together voluntarily to pursue common goals, interests, or activities without forming a legal entity.

Nini dantai does not have legal personality, meaning it cannot own property, enter into contracts, or sue and be sued in its own name. Instead, the activities and legal responsibilities are managed by its members or representatives. Such organizations are common in various fields, including community groups, hobby clubs, volunteer associations, and some professional groups.

While voluntary organizations enjoy greater flexibility in its formation and operation compared to incorporated entities, it also has limitations, particularly in terms of legal protections and financial management. Members of 任意団体 may need to take extra care in managing finances, liabilities, and administrative responsibilities to ensure the organization's smooth operation and compliance with relevant regulations.