Hiromi's Blog

What Happens to Your Finances If Your Spouse Dies? What to Know About Social Security Survivor Benefits

Learn how Social Security survivor benefits may affect your household income after a spouse dies, including claiming strategies, children’s benefits, working before full retirement age, and planning ahead.

2026.09.01

Tax

Received an IRS Penalty Notice? Key Points Taxpayers Should Know About the New Penalty Relief Rules Starting in 2026

Learn about the IRS Automatic Exemption from Penalty (AEP) starting in 2026, how it differs from First Time Abate (FTA), who qualifies, and why FBAR and Form 3520 penalties may require separate relief procedures. Explained by a U.S. CPA.

2026.08.03

Tax

A Place Called Kagurazaka

Kagurazaka in Tokyo is a special place in my life. In this Personal Reflections article, I revisit memories of work, friends, and family, and reflect on the moments that shaped my journey.

2026.07.01

Personal Reflections

What the Movie “Chef” Made Me Think About: A Way of Working Where You Control Your Own Career

Watching the movie “Chef” on my flight to Japan made me reflect on entrepreneurship, family, and building a career I can control. As a CPA and business owner in the U.S., I share my thoughts on choosing a more independent way of working.

2026.06.01

Business Formation

Money management is something you don’t truly understand until you start.

You may know money management is important, but it’s hard to understand what actually changes until you start. This article explains the real impact and why tax-aware financial planning matters in the U.S.

2026.05.01

Smart Money

Does Giving Up a Green Card Mean U.S. Taxes No Longer Apply?

Does giving up a green card end your U.S. tax obligations? Not always. Learn about dual-status returns, Form 8854, and key tax issues after renunciation.

2026.04.01

Tax

Does a Tax Extension Mean You Can Pay Later?

Filing a tax extension only extends the filing deadline—not the payment deadline. Learn key rules for U.S. individual and business tax returns, including automatic extension states like California.

2026.03.02

Tax

For Those Who Never Filed FBAR

If you have Japanese bank or investment accounts and never filed FBAR, you may still be able to correct it. Learn how FBAR works, the 6-year lookback rule, and what to do now.

2026.02.02

Tax

When You Receive a Letter from the IRS: Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Decide What to Do First

A practical guide to understanding what to do when you receive a letter from the IRS. Learn common mistakes to avoid, how to review the notice, what to check first, and when it may be safer to seek professional advice.

2026.01.05

Tax

Why Your Money Isn’t Growing: Is It an Unconscious Choice Not to Increase It?– The Connection Between Money and Mindset Through Smart Money Coaching –

Your money may not be growing not because of your effort, but because of unconscious mindset blocks. This article explains the psychology behind "staying the same" and how Smart Money Coaching helps you move toward financial freedom.

2025.12.01

Smart Money