About Thomas
Thomas Yamachika is a prominent tax attorney based in Honolulu, Hawaii, with a specialized focus on state taxation matters. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law in 1983, following his Bachelor of Science degree from Yale University in 1980. Since being licensed to practice law in Hawaii in the same year, Yamachika has built a distinguished career in tax law, establishing himself as a key figure in the field. In 2013, he founded Aloha State Tax, a firm dedicated to providing comprehensive tax consulting services. The firm specializes in diagnostic reviews, representation in audits, and court appeals specifically related to Hawaii state taxes.
Under his leadership, Aloha State Tax has become a trusted resource for individuals and businesses handling the requirements of state tax regulations. His expertise is not only recognized in private practice but also in his role as President and Secretary of the Tax Foundation of Hawaii, a nonprofit organization committed to educating the public about state and local government finances. Before establishing Aloha State Tax, Yamachika held several significant positions that shaped his understanding of tax law and policy. He served as Principal at Accuity LLP, where he developed his skills in tax consulting. His tenure as Director at the Hawaii Department of Taxation provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of state tax administration.
Additionally, he worked as an Associate at Cades Schutte Fleming & Wright, further solidifying his foundation in legal practice. Yamachika's contributions to the legal community have not gone unnoticed — He has been recognized by his peers and selected to Super Lawyers from 2021 to 2025. His active involvement extends beyond legal practice; he is a member of the Hawaii State Bar Association and the Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce. He has also served as Vice Chair of the Honolulu Real Property Tax Advisory Commission, where he contributed to discussions on property tax policy. His engagement with community organizations includes roles with Goodwill Industries of Hawaii and the Oahu Mathematics League, reflecting his commitment to public service.
In addition to his professional achievements, Yamachika is dedicated to educating the public about tax matters. Aloha State Tax offers classes registered with the Hawaii State Board of Public Accountancy, aimed at providing accessible continuing education on state taxation topics. These classes reflect his commitment to demystifying tax issues and empowering others with knowledge. Through his experience and unwavering dedication, Thomas Yamachika continues to influence tax policy and education in Hawaii, making a lasting impact on the legal and business communities in the state.
