Which Submission Method Is Right for You?
Follow the decision tree below to find your best option. Click any result to jump to its details.
6 Submission Methods
File electronically using your My Number Card. Submit 24/7 from your smartphone or PC with the fastest refund processing.
Pros
- +Fastest refund (about 2-3 weeks)
- +Submit anytime, 24/7
- +My Number Portal integration auto-imports medical/insurance data
- +Supporting documents generally not required
- +Refund filings possible from early January (before filing period)
Cons
- -Requires a My Number Card
- -Requires an IC card reader or NFC-capable smartphone
- -Must remember two passwords (4-digit + 6-16 character)
File electronically using an ID/password issued by the tax office. No My Number Card needed, but new registrations stopped since October 2025.
Pros
- +No My Number Card required
- +No IC card reader or NFC smartphone needed
- +Same refund speed as My Number Card e-Tax
Cons
- -New registrations discontinued since October 1, 2025
- -Need to watch for existing ID expiration
- -My Number Portal integration not available
- -Described as a transitional measure; may be retired in future
Create your return using the NTA's web tool, then print and submit by mail or in person. Works without e-Tax setup.
Pros
- +No My Number Card or IC card reader required
- +Auto-calculation prevents errors
- +Save progress and resume later
- +Save data and reuse for next year's filing
Cons
- -Must print and submit by mail or in person
- -Slower refund (1-2 months)
- -Must prepare and attach supporting documents separately
Mail your completed return to your jurisdictional tax office. The postmark date counts as the filing date.
Pros
- +No need to visit the tax office
- +Postmark date counts as filing date (postmarked by deadline is OK)
- +Prepare and post at any time convenient for you
Cons
- -Slower refund (1-2 months)
- -Must be sent as first-class mail (δΏ‘ζΈ); parcels/courier NOT accepted
- -Since January 2025, NTA no longer stamps receipt date on copies
- -Must enclose supporting documents
Submit directly at the tax office counter or a special filing venue. During the filing period, staff can help you file via smartphone.
Pros
- +Get staff assistance on the spot
- +Fix issues immediately at the counter
- +Staff can help you file via smartphone at the venue
Cons
- -Filing venues require LINE reservation in advance (since 2022)
- -Can be crowded with long wait times
- -Venue hours and availability are limited
- -Slower refund (1-2 months)
Hire a licensed tax accountant (η¨η士, zeirishi) to prepare and file your return. Best for complex tax situations or when you don't have time to file yourself.
Pros
- +Expert handles complex tax decisions
- +Full service from preparation to submission
- +Get tax optimization advice
- +Can represent you during tax audits
- +Minimal risk of errors or omissions
Cons
- -Costs money (typically Β₯30,000-Β₯150,000+ for individual returns)
- -Need to find and engage a tax accountant
- -Filing season is busy β contact early
- -You still need to gather and provide your documents