Plan Ahead to Avoid Inheritance Disputes: Making Time Your Ally — Ogawa Hidenori Tax Office, Kamakura City

Many families assume “we will be fine” and make no preparations, but sudden inheritance can create unexpected tax liabilities and a shortage of cash for payments, risking family conflict, or “souzoku.” The tax office recommends using tools such as wills, lifetime gifts, and appropriate tax consultations to spread decisions over time and reduce the chance of dispute. Proactive measures help ensure fair distribution and liquidity for tax payments rather than forcing heirs into conflict after a death.