Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Claim Business Expenses Without a Receipt in Japan?

In practice, you may still be able to claim the expense by preparing a written memo that includes the same information normally shown on a receipt, such as the date, amount, name of the store or person paid, purpose of the expense, and payment method.

You should also keep any other supporting documents, such as credit card statements, bank records, invoices, or order confirmation emails. However, a memo does not automatically guarantee that the expense will be accepted for tax purposes, so it is always best to obtain and keep original receipts whenever possible.

 

What Should Individuals Running Businesses in Japan Do When They Forget to Collect Receipts?