File Your 2026 Japanese Tax Return Without an Accountant
Two separate apps — one for each return type. Built for expats and self-employed residents in Japan.
Step-by-step in plain English. Done in under 30 minutes.
Annual subscription · Up to 3 devices · Your data stays on your device · 30-day money-back guarantee
Not sure which return you need? Download the free 2026 Tax Filing Checklist →
Japanese Tax Filing Is Hard — If You Don’t Know the System
Tax season in Japan is stressful for expats. The forms are in Japanese, the rules are complex, and mistakes can mean penalties or a rejected filing. Here’s what our users tell us before they find us:
The Forms Are in Japanese
Even with translation tools, filling in an NTA form correctly is daunting. One error and your return could be rejected.
No Time to Research
Between work and life in Japan, spending days learning Japanese tax law simply isn’t realistic.
Accountants Cost a Fortune
Professional tax services in Japan typically charge ¥50,000–¥150,000. Often more than many people actually owe.
Blue or White — Which One?
Blue returns give bigger deductions, but you’re not sure if you qualify or how to get approved. Our app guides you through it.
How It Works — From Zero to Filed in Under 30 Minutes
No tax knowledge required. No Japanese required. Just answer simple questions in English and we handle everything else.
Choose Your Return
Select Blue Return Pro or White Return based on your situation. Not sure? Use our free checklist to find out which applies to you.
Answer Simple Questions
Tell us about your income, deductions, and situation. In plain English, step by step — no tax knowledge required.
We Calculate Everything
The app handles all Japanese tax calculations, deductions, and 2026 reform changes automatically and accurately.
Generate & Submit
We produce your official NTA-compliant forms. Submit via e-Tax, at your local tax office, or by post.
Blue vs White — Two Completely Different Returns
Blue and White are not the same filing done differently — they are entirely separate returns with different rules, documents, and outcomes. The right one depends on your income type and situation.
| Feature | White Return Shiro-iro Shinkoku | Blue Return Pro Ao-iro Shinkoku |
|---|---|---|
| Who it’s for | Employees, freelancers, and sole proprietors wanting simple filing | Freelancers, self-employed, and real estate owners wanting maximum deductions |
| Special deduction | None | Up to ¥650,000 from business income |
| Business loss carryforward | Not available | 3 years — offset future profits |
| Family employee salary | Not available | Fully deductible (conditions apply) |
| Bookkeeping required | Basic records only | Double-entry (our app guides you through it) |
| Prior application needed | No — anyone can file | Yes — apply by March 15 of the tax year |
| Price | ¥7,980/year | ¥15,980/year |
Not sure which applies to you? Our free 2026 Japan Tax Filing Checklist walks through exactly who needs to file which return — with a full document checklist for both.
Two Apps. One for Each Return.
Built separately because they’re completely different filings. Both in plain English, both generating official NTA-compliant forms.
White Return
Shiro-iro Shinkoku — ¥7,980/year
For salaried employees, freelancers, and sole proprietors who want accurate, straightforward filing without complex bookkeeping obligations.
- Full White Return (Shiro-iro Shinkoku) filing
- Plain English, step-by-step interface
- All standard deductions included
- Automatic official NTA-compliant PDF
- Ready for e-Tax, tax office, or mail
- English email support
- Works on up to 3 devices
License key emailed instantly after payment
Blue Return Pro
Ao-iro Shinkoku — ¥15,980/year
For freelancers, self-employed residents, and real estate owners who want the full ¥650,000 special deduction and every benefit the Blue Return offers.
- Full Blue Return (Ao-iro Shinkoku) filing
- Up to ¥650,000 special deduction support
- Double-entry bookkeeping guidance built in
- Balance sheet and P&L generation
- Capital gains and crypto asset tracking
- Automatic official NTA-compliant PDF
- Ready for e-Tax, tax office, or mail
- Priority English email support
- Works on up to 3 devices
License key emailed instantly after payment
30-day money-back guarantee · Secure checkout via Stripe · Cancel anytime
What Our Users Say
“I was dreading tax season, but this app made it SO easy. I filed my Blue Return in 25 minutes and got it accepted on the first try.”
Sarah M. — Tokyo
“Saved me at least ¥80,000 in accountant fees. The app is incredibly user-friendly and the support team answered my questions within hours.”
David K. — Osaka
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I actually need to file a tax return in Japan?
If you are self-employed, a freelancer, have rental income, earn side income exceeding ¥200,000 net, work for a foreign employer, or your annual salary exceeds ¥20,000,000, you almost certainly need to file. Download our free 2026 Tax Filing Checklist for a complete rundown of who must file.
What is the difference between a Blue Return and a White Return?
Blue Returns (Ao-iro Shinkoku) offer a special deduction of up to ¥650,000 from business income and allow business losses to be carried forward for 3 years — but require proper double-entry bookkeeping and prior approval. White Returns (Shiro-iro Shinkoku) are simpler but offer none of those benefits. They are entirely different filings, which is why we have a separate app for each.
When is the filing deadline for 2026 income?
The filing window for 2026 income (January 1 – December 31, 2026) is February 16 – March 15, 2027. If March 15 falls on a weekend, the deadline moves to the next business day.
Are the forms generated compliant with NTA requirements?
Yes. Our app generates official tax forms meeting NTA requirements for submission. All tax rules applied reflect current NTA guidance — and where anything conflicts, the NTA’s published rules always take precedence.
I want to file a Blue Return but haven’t applied yet — is it too late?
You must submit your Blue Return application to the tax office by March 15 of the tax year you want it to apply. If you missed that for 2026, you will need to file White for this year and apply for Blue status for 2027. Our free checklist explains the application process in full.
How does it work after I pay?
After payment, your license key is emailed to you instantly. Enter the key in the app to unlock full access. Your license covers up to 3 devices and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
What if I need help?
All plans include email support in English. Blue Return Pro includes priority support. Our team is bilingual and familiar with the questions expats commonly face.
Can I use this if I live outside Japan?
Yes. As long as you need to file Japanese taxes, both apps work from anywhere in the world.
Further reading: Understanding Japanese End-of-Year Tax Filing
日本語版: 青色・白色申告ガイドはこちら