U.S. companies are flocking to wellness programs because of potential savings in employee healthcare coverage. But what would be the result if companies were taxed for having too many fat employees? That’s what’s happening in Japan.

The Asia nation’s government is reacting to statistics that show Japanese citizens are fatter than ever.
Part of the government’s solution? A fat tax. Companies will be required to cut the number of overweight workers and dependents by 10% as of 2012 and 25% by 2015.

If they don’t, companies face as much as a 10% surcharge on contributions to a fund for elderly care.

So, HRB highly encourages HR and benefits pros in the U.S. push those wellness programs – consider the alternative. Do you really want to have to line up your employees (and their dependents!) on a regular basis for a weigh-in?

Tags: fat employees, fat tax, tax on business