Mistakes to avoid

The following list was collected from recent first-hand experiences opening corporate bank accounts in Japan.

Mistake #1: Not submitting the proper documents.

Each banking institution will have its list of what must be included when filing to open a corporate account.

Refer to each bank's official guidance on the matter.

Mistake #2: Mismatch of name on the application with the name on the tohon.

For opening corporate bank accounts, the representative/director's name on the bank application must match the one on your company's articles of incorporation (tohon).

The following is an example of what will be refused.

• ドウ ジョン on tohon 
• ドー ジョーン on the application

Katakana is a phonetic alphabet, and occasionally, foreign names can be open to creative pronunciations, depending on the person doing the writing. However, whatever is first listed on the tohon must then be listed on the application.

Mistake #3: Using a computer to fill out the form.

Applications for corporate accounts must, for the most part, be handwritten.

Even if you receive a PDF copy of the application form, unless specified otherwise, the standard method you are expected to follow is to print out the files, handwrite your application entries, and mail in your documents via the postal service.

Mistake #4. Erasing an error with white correction fluid.

The correct way to fix a mistake is to strike through the error twice.

Then, in whatever space remains, write out the correct text and add your seal next to the corrected text. Don't use whiteout.

Mistake #5: Stamping your seal in the wrong place.

English-language contracts often have two spaces for both parties to sign. Similarly, Japanese application forms have two spaces for seals (hanko).

One space is for you, and the other is for the bank. Don't use the wrong space.

Mistake #6: Not using the correct seal in your forms.

When filing for other banking services, such as the online banking application, use the same seal you used to open an account.

For your business account, always stamp with the same hanko (銀行印) you registered when you created your account.

Mistake #7: Using the wrong display name in your application.

For most bank forms, the name display should be "company name + title + name."

For example: 株式会社 代表取締役 ドウ ジョン