Japan Resident Tax 101: Why It Hits in June + English Tax Slip Included

Tax return season’s over, but Japan’s next financial curveball is just around the corner: resident tax (住民税 / juminzei). Bills drop in June, and if you're not ready, they can sting. I’ve been there—my German friend once wrestled with last year’s income, puzzled by a huge tax bill. Spoiler: it’s all based on the previous year’s earnings.

Whether you’re an expat, new grad, freelancer, or planning retirement, this HR insider guide breaks down what resident tax is, how it works, and how to prep now so June doesn’t catch you off guard.