#Japan #Tokyo #Tax Deductions #Katsuya Watanabe #FM NACK5

Understanding Expense Deductions: Key Insights from FM NACK5

On August 24, 2026, the popular FM NACK5 program "Kirasuta" featured tax lawyer Katsuya Watanabe, shedding light on the pressing question of what qualifies as a deductible expense. Due to public interest, the key points discussed during the show have been compiled and summarized, ensuring that listeners who missed the live broadcast can still benefit from its content.

Key Themes Discussed

1. Can Cafe Expenses Be Deducted?

Question: "I had a meeting at a cafe. Can I deduct that expense?"

Answer: "It depends."
Taxpayers may consider cafe expenses as meeting costs or business entertainment if they are related to client discussions. However, expenses incurred for personal activities, like solitary reading, would be challenging to justify as business expenses. The main criterion is whether you can substantiate its connection to your work. Keeping a record of the cafe's name and the purpose of the meeting can help demonstrate this connection.

2. What About Home Rent as a Deduction?

Question: "I work from home. Can I deduct my rent fully?"

Answer: "Not entirely; partial deductions may be possible."
For instance, if 20% of your home serves as your office space, you can proportionally claim expenses for rent, utilities, and internet. This method is known as "apportionment of personal and business use." Claiming 100% of the rent for business use may prompt scrutiny from tax authorities, so it is vital to justify the percentage based on actual usage.

3. Are Lost Receipts a Problem for Deductions?

Question: "If I've lost my receipt, can I still claim the expense?"

Answer: "Not always, but it may still be possible."
Even without a receipt, if you have documented details such as date, amount, and purpose in an expense ledger, it might still qualify as a deductible expense. Collecting additional evidence, such as credit card statements or bank transfer records, is advisable to substantiate the validity of the expense.

Note: The tax information provided is generalized and may vary based on individual circumstances. For specific advice regarding tax filings and expense claims, consulting with a qualified tax professional is recommended.

Tax Audit Support

The Tax Audit 110 Contact Service, managed by Quality One Tax Corporation, aids individuals grappling with tax audits. If you've received communication from the tax authorities or feel uncertain about your documentation, this service offers support with organizing your situation, verifying your documents, and accompanying you on the audit day.

For more details, please visit: Quality One Tax Corporation or call their service hotline.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: Quality One Tax Corporation
• - Service: Tax Audit 110 Contact Service
• - Representative: Katsuya Watanabe
• - Location: 2nd Floor, Kikyoya Building, 2 Chome-7 Kudan Minami, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
• - Services Offered: Tax audit support, tax advisory, bookkeeping, management consulting, tax-saving strategies
• - Contact Number: 0120-959-899
• - Official Website: Quality One
• - YouTube Channel: Tax Audit Tips

For media inquiries, contact:

• - Tax Audit 110 Public Relations: Mami Majima at 050-5497-1683 or via email at [email protected].

For service questions, call Tax Audit 110 at 0120-959-899 or visit their official site.