Helping U.S. Citizens Living in Japan

Tax Services For Expats

Are you a U.S. citizen living abroad? If YES, you are REQUIRED to file a US tax return reporting your worldwide income by June 15th.

This woman owned business started twenty years ago.. one client at a time…and has grown to help thousands.

Tax Services For Americans Living In Japan

Tax planning and preparation services for small businesses and individuals. Let our experienced CPAs and EAs take care of all your tax needs, from individual filings to comprehensive business returns. We provide a seamless, stress-free tax experience.

Expatriates in Japan

Explore Japan on the Map

U.S. Consular Services in Japan

Working Abroad in Japan, While Being an American Citizen

Japan is known for its rich cultural heritage, advanced technology, and bustling cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. From the serene temples and gardens to the vibrant urban lifestyle, Japan offers a unique and enriching living experience. The country’s excellent healthcare system, high-quality education, and efficient public transportation make it an attractive destination for expatriates seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Challenges for Expats in Japan

Complex Tax System

Japan has a progressive tax system with rates ranging from 5% to 45%. Understanding and complying with Japanese tax laws can be complex, making it essential to ensure all legal requirements are met to avoid penalties.

Double Taxation

U.S. citizens living in Japan must file taxes in both Japan and the U.S., potentially leading to double taxation. The U.S.-Japan tax treaty helps mitigate this by allowing the use of tax credits and exemptions.

Reporting Requirements

Expats must report foreign bank accounts and assets, complying with FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Reporting) and FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act). Non-compliance can result in severe penalties.

Social Security Contributions

Navigating social security contributions between Japan and the home country can be complex. The U.S.-Japan totalization agreement helps determine which country’s social security system you contribute to, based on your employment situation.

Tax Deadlines and Extensions

Japan has specific tax deadlines, typically in March for individual income tax returns. Missing these deadlines can lead to fines, so timely filing is crucial.

Our Services

At Expatriate Tax Returns, we provide comprehensive services to help expatriates manage their tax obligations effectively:

  • Tax Preparation and Filing: We handle U.S. tax returns, ensuring full compliance.
  • Double Taxation Relief: Assistance with applying tax treaties and credits to avoid paying taxes twice.
  • Foreign Bank Account Reporting: Guidance on FBAR and FATCA requirements to prevent penalties.
  • Social Security Coordination: Advising on social security contributions to avoid benefit gaps.
  • Deadline Management: Ensuring all tax deadlines are met to prevent fines.

Our team of experienced tax professionals is dedicated to making the tax filing process as smooth and stress-free as possible for expatriates. For more detailed information, please visit our services page.

Living as an Expat in Japan

Common Questions

What are the tax implications of living in Japan as a U.S. citizen?

As a U.S. citizen, you are required to file tax returns in both the U.S. and Japan. This can lead to double taxation, but tax treaties and credits can help alleviate this burden.

How do I avoid double taxation?

You can avoid double taxation by taking advantage of tax treaties between the U.S. and Japan and claiming foreign tax credits.

What is FBAR, and do I need to comply with it?

FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Reporting) requires U.S. citizens to report foreign bank accounts if the total value exceeds $10,000 at any time during the year. Compliance is mandatory to avoid penalties.

How can Expatriate Tax Returns help me?

We offer a full range of services, including tax preparation and filing, double taxation relief, foreign bank account reporting guidance, social security coordination, and deadline management to ensure full compliance and peace of mind.

US TAX RETURN FILING PROCESS

EASY AS 1, 2, 3

You have questions? We have the answers! Contact us and complete our client census. You will get a response within 24 hours. Our team is never intimidated by a challenge. We provide answers, while others ask questions.

01

Click on Start Now

Expatriate Tax Returns understands the importance of filing your taxes quickly and correctly. You complete our organizer, so we know what questions to ask.

02

Submit Your Info

Collect “What We Need” from the template you will receive from the Expatriate Tax Return advisor.

03

Begin Filing Process

We will assign a preparer to begin your tax return filing process. Help you file the right returns, using the right forms, and providing all of the right information.

Individual & Business Expatriate Tax Returns

We can quickly walk you through the expat tax return preparation process, ensuring you get filed on time, in no time. As friendly professionals with over a decade of experience, we make expat tax return preparation easy. Furthermore, no matter your needs, we have the answers to your tax questions from expatriate tax return planning to preparation. Contact us today.

Need to file your Expat taxes?

Expatriate income tax planning and preparation, offering tailored solutions for late filers, small businesses, and partnerships.

  • Federal Income Tax
  • State Income Tax
  • City Income Tax
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Expert CPAs and EAs

Why Choose Us

Expat Tax Guide

Get Free Copy of Expat Tax Guide “A” to “Z”

Get the essential American Expat Tax “A” to “Z” guide that covers all the details of expatriate taxes. Understand everything you need to know about navigating the complexities of expat tax obligations with this comprehensive resource.

Testimonials

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barry bloomfield profile picture
barry bloomfield
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I owe Diana an apology. She gave me great advice but didn't listen to her. Last year, I went with my accountant I've been using for the past 7 years when I moved to Australia from the United States, instead of Expatriate Tax Returns, and paid the price. They told me I didn't owe anything which blew my mind. I always pay a couple of hundred dollars tax time, but after getting my hopes up, thinking I didn't owe anything, they informed me I owed $633.00 all because of a computer error. What were they using? Expatriate Tax Returns are professional accounts and wouldn't make such a huge mistake. I'll be using Expatriate Tax Returns from now on.
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Steven Millar profile picture
Steven Millar
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Diane and Lauren were very helpful and professional in resolving my tax issues. They were fast, efficient and resourceful in helping me to meet my compliance in this matter. They kept me informed at every step of the process and answered any questions and concerns I had along the way. From this point on I will use them to meet my yearly tax return obligations.
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Madeleine Kruhsberg profile picture
Madeleine Kruhsberg
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Year after year and next year as well! I am glad that you are there for me!
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Sean Hinkle profile picture
Sean Hinkle
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Been using this service for several years now as I live in Europe and taxes in the US are a major headache. It's completely simplified the process and I no longer have to stress about it!
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KARIN HELLSTROM-AUBRON profile picture
KARIN HELLSTROM-AUBRON
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Very satisfied with this on line service. Highly reactive team providing expert advice!!!
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Robin Matthews profile picture
Robin Matthews
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I received first class income tax advise and preparation. This was the first time using Expatriate Tax Returns after my long time tax accountant retired. To be honest this year's return was prepared faster and more easily than all the previous years. I wish I'd made the the switch earlier! I highly recommend you use this service. You won't be disappointed.
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juan ramirez profile picture
juan ramirez
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Excelentes productos mejores precios y e tregas sin problemas
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Catalina Guzmán profile picture
Catalina Guzmán
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I have been using Expatriate Tax Returns for years! I recommend them every time I get the chance. As someone who has lived in several different countries and often moves in the middle of the fiscal year, Expat Returns was always willing and able to meet my needs and file my returns (despite very different documents!) Thank you!!