✔️ How to Identify a Licensed Tax Accountant (Zeirishi) in Japan

Following last weeks’ notice, here are practical tips to help foreign residents and business owners avoid unlicensed tax preparers in Japan.

1. Check the License

A licensed tax accountant in Japan is called a Certified Public Tax Accountant (Zeirishi). They are registered with the Japan Federation of Certified Public Tax Accountants’ associations and have an official registration number.

You may ask directly:

• Are you a licensed Zeirishi?

• What is your registration number?

A legitimate professional will answer clearly.

2. Be Careful with “Cheap” or “Quick” Offers

Be cautious if someone:

• Offers to file your tax return for a very low fee

• Says “license is not necessary”

• Claims they can “just submit it online for you”

Providing paid tax advice or preparing tax returns without a license is illegal in Japan.

3. Free Help vs. Paid Services

• Free assistance (for example, community support or language help) may be allowed only if no tax advice is given

• Paid tax advice or filing must be done by a licensed Zeirishi

If money is involved, licensing matters.

4. Why This Matters

Using an unlicensed preparer can lead to:

• Incorrect tax filings

• Additional tax and penalties

• No support during a tax audit

In Japan, the taxpayer remains responsible, even if someone else prepared the return.

Final Advice

When in doubt, choose a licensed tax accountant. It may cost more upfront, but it significantly reduces legal and tax risks — especially for foreign residents unfamiliar with Japanese tax rules.