How to Pay Taxes via Smartphone Using eL-QR
What Is eL-QR
eL-QR is a unified QR code standard printed on local tax payment slips. Introduced nationwide from April 2023, it supports payment of property tax, resident tax, automobile tax, and light vehicle tax.
Previously requiring visits to convenience stores or bank counters, eL-QR-enabled payment slips allow 24/7 smartphone payment from home.
Smartphone Payment Steps
Steps for smartphone payment using eL-QR:
- Locate the eL-QR code (usually bottom-left) on the payment slip
- Open a compatible app (PayPay, LINE Pay, d-barai, au PAY, etc.)
- Use the app's "bill payment" feature to scan the eL-QR
- Confirm the amount and execute payment
Payment via credit card is also available through the Local Tax Payment Site (https://www.payment.eltax.lta.go.jp).
Supported Payment Methods
Major payment methods compatible with eL-QR:
- QR code payments: PayPay, LINE Pay, d-barai, au PAY, Rakuten Pay, etc.
- Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, JCB via the Local Tax Payment Site (fees apply)
- Internet banking: Pay-easy via the Local Tax Payment Site
QR code payment apps are often fee-free, making them the most economical option. Credit card payments incur fees but may be offset by point rewards.
Differences from traditional payment methods
Payment by eL-QR has several differences compared with traditional methods. Going to a convenience store or a bank window gives the reassurance of a receipt remaining in hand, but it takes business hours and the effort of traveling. Direct debit, once set up, is withdrawn automatically with no effort, but you need to manage your balance. eL-QR lets you pay anytime, twenty-four hours a day, from home, with no need to go out. Each has strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to choose the method that suits your situation, such as whether you need a receipt and how much effort you want to spend.
The benefit of point rewards
QR code payment or credit card payment using eL-QR has the benefit that points may be rewarded according to the amount used. If points accrue on the unavoidable expense of paying tax, the effect is essentially the same as receiving a small discount. However, depending on the payment service, tax payments may be excluded from point rewards. To avoid expecting points only to find none were given, it is reassuring to check the terms of the service you use in advance. The conditions differ from company to company.
Watch for fees and limits
When paying by eL-QR, you also need to watch for fees and amount limits. When paying by credit card, because you go through the local tax payment site, a system usage fee according to the payment amount may apply. On the other hand, QR code payments often have a limit set per transaction or per day, and a large tax bill may not be payable at once. Checking in advance whether your payment method has fees and what its limit is will save you from panicking on the day.
How to confirm after payment
After paying with eL-QR, it is reassuring to confirm that the payment was completed correctly. Because eL-QR does not issue a receipt, the transaction history of your payment app and the payment completion screen serve as the record of payment. Check that the amount and the date and time remain in the app's history, and save a screenshot if needed. In the unlikely event that you pay twice, or if you are unsure whether it was reflected, contact the municipality's inquiry desk shown on the payment slip. Making a habit of confirming helps prevent missed or duplicate payments.
Important Notes
No receipt is issued for eL-QR payments. If a receipt is needed, pay at a convenience store or bank counter as before.
Each payment slip requires a separate scan. Paying four installments of property tax requires four scans and four payments. Use a lump-sum payment slip if available.