Free Download

Your Tax Season
Prep Checklist

Everything you need to prepare for 確定申告 — organized by month, with deadlines and document checklists.

What's inside

  • Month-by-month timeline (Oct → Mar)

    Know exactly what to do and when, from gathering documents through filing day.

  • Document checklist

    控除証明書, 源泉徴収票, マイナンバーカード, and every other form you need.

  • Deduction finder worksheet

    Walk through common deductions you might be missing — medical, housing loan, dependents, and more.

  • Filing method comparison

    e-Tax vs paper vs in-person at the tax office — pros, cons, and step-by-step for each.

  • Common mistakes to avoid

    The errors that cost foreigners money every year — and how to avoid them.

  • Deadline calendar with reminders

    Every key date for the tax season, so nothing catches you off guard.

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Based on official 国税庁 guidelines

Every deadline and requirement sourced from official tax authority documentation.

Used by 500+ foreigners in Japan

Trusted by expats across Tokyo, Osaka, and beyond to prepare for tax season.

Updated for 2026 tax year

Reflects the latest tax rates, deduction limits, and filing procedures.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Tax Season Prep Checklist really free?

Yes, 100% free. No credit card required. We'll send you the PDF immediately after you enter your email.

What format is the checklist in?

The checklist is a downloadable PDF that you can save, print, or view on any device. It's designed to be easy to follow whether you prefer digital or paper.

Is this checklist for the 2026 tax year?

Yes. The checklist is fully updated for the 2026 tax year (filing in early 2027 for most people, or March 2026 for those filing for 2025 income). All deadlines, forms, and deduction amounts reflect current regulations.

I'm a freelancer. Does this checklist cover business income (事業所得)?

Yes. The checklist covers both employment income (給与所得) and business income (事業所得), including specific documents freelancers need like expense records and 青色申告 preparation items.

Will I receive other emails after downloading?

We'll send you a weekly Japan finance tip email with practical guidance on taxes, NISA, pensions, and more. Every email has a one-click unsubscribe link. No spam, ever.

I'm leaving Japan soon. Is this checklist relevant for me?

Yes. The checklist includes a section on tax obligations when leaving Japan, including 納税管理人 (tax representative) requirements and final filing deadlines.

This checklist is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Consult a licensed 税理士 (tax accountant) or financial planner for your specific situation.

FinBuddy provides general educational information about Japan's financial systems based on publicly available laws and regulations. This is NOT tax advice (税務相談), financial advice, or any form of professional consultation as defined under 税理士法, 金融商品取引法, or related legislation. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a licensed 税理士 (certified tax accountant) or ファイナンシャルプランナー (financial planner). FinBuddy is an educational tool, not a substitute for professional advice.