Blue vs White Return Comparison
Which filing method is right for you?
In Japan, self-employed individuals can choose between Blue Return (青色申告) and White Return (白色申告). Blue Return offers larger deductions but requires more detailed bookkeeping. This tool helps you compare which option saves you more money.
For informational purposes only. Not financial or tax advice. Consult a tax professional.
Total business income before expenses
Total business expenses
National health insurance, pension, etc.
| Filing Type | White | Blue ¥100K | Blue ¥550K | BestBlue ¥650K |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Deduction | — | ¥100,000 | ¥550,000 | ¥650,000 |
| e-Tax Filing | ||||
| Double-Entry | ||||
Your Tax Calculation | ||||
| Total Tax | ¥550,584 | ¥530,374 | ¥439,429 | ¥378,799 |
| Take-Home Pay | ¥3,449,416 | ¥3,469,626 | ¥3,560,571 | ¥3,621,201 |
| Tax Savings | — | ¥20,210 | ¥111,155 | ¥171,785 |
You could save
¥171,785
per year with Blue Return
Choosing Blue Return (¥650K Deduction) saves you ¥171,785 compared to white return
Your Tax
¥378,799
Take-Home
¥3,621,201
Double-entry bookkeeping made easy
Denpyo automatically converts your receipts into proper double-entry journal entries, helping you qualify for the maximum Blue Return deduction.
How to Start Blue Return
To use blue return, you need to submit a business registration and blue return approval application to the tax office.
Application Steps:
- 1.Submit Opening Notification (開業届) to your local tax officeGet the form
- 2.Submit Blue Return Application (青色申告承認申請書)Get the form
- 3.Set up your bookkeeping system before the tax year begins
Application Deadline
Apply by March 15 to use Blue Return for the current tax year. New businesses have 2 months from their opening date.