Prepare for the 2025 Tax Audit: Insights and Strategies from an Ex-Auditor

Prepare for the 2025 Tax Audit: Insights and Strategies

As tax season approaches, businesses need to prepare thoroughly for tax audits, especially with the upcoming seminar hosted by the Japan Management Association (JMA) on October 29, 2025. This training session titled "Smooth Ways to Handle Tax Audits and Response Strategies" is designed for professionals in accounting, finance, and general affairs. The seminar will be facilitated by Masaya Ikegami, a former auditor with extensive experience working for the Tokyo National Tax Agency.

Seminar Highlights

This seminar aims to equip attendees with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for navigating tax audits. The session will cover everything from the foundations of tax audits to effective strategies for responding to inquiries by tax authorities. Key highlights include:

- Expert Guidance: Sessions led by Masaya Ikegami, who has a rich background in conducting audits for publicly listed companies and has experience with international investigations.
- Updated Content: With new themes such as AI and big data, electronic record retention laws, and industry-specific risks, this seminar presents contemporary issues relevant to today’s auditing environment.
- Structured Learning: The seminar will systematically explain the audit process from initiation to conclusion, integrating insights on industry-specific risks and actual audit cases. This makes the information directly applicable to real-world situations.

Who is Masaya Ikegami?

Masaya Ikegami is a prominent tax accountant and former head of the audit department at the Tokyo National Tax Agency. He joined the tax agency in 1981, where he progressed through various roles, including administrative and audit functions. He is known for his involvement in audits across multiple industries and handling international tax investigations. Since 2023, he has transitioned into tax advisory, helping businesses navigate their tax-related challenges.

Seminar Program Overview

The program consists of several key chapters:

1. Basics of Tax Audits: Understand the foundations, such as the basis for audits, the structure of the National Tax Agency, types of audits, and contemporary trends.
2. Audit Procedures: Clarify points that are commonly misunderstood, including notification procedures, rights during inquiries, and potential penalties applicable.
3. Auditor's Perspective: Discover what auditors prioritize during audits, including industry-specific and tax category-focused insights, particularly regarding VAT audits.
4. Electronic Records Retention Law: Delve into three categories of this law with practical advice on how to respond during audits.
5. Building a Resilient Corporate Body: Discuss the intersection of corporate governance, tax compliance, and identifying inherent tax risks.

Seminar Details

- Date: October 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Format: Attendees can participate either in-person or online via ZOOM. Live broadcasts will be available.
- Participation Fee: 34,100 JPY for JMA members, and 41,800 JPY for non-members.

For more information and registration, visit:

Conclusion

This seminar provides an invaluable opportunity for professionals to gain insights from a seasoned expert. Participants will not only learn about the theoretical aspects of tax audits but will also receive practical takeaways that can be applied immediately in their respective roles. Whether attending in person or online, this session is a must for anyone involved in tax preparation and compliance.

For further inquiries, contact the Planning and Training Group at the JMA via email at [email protected] or through their call number 03-6632-7140. Enhance your readiness for tax audits and ensure your business is prepared to respond effectively to any audits ahead.