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Insights from the 2025 Furusato Tax Survey

A recent survey conducted by 400F, which operates the national financial diagnostic service, OkaneCo, aims to explore user experiences related to the Furusato tax system. This investigation included responses from 346 users of OkaneCo and yielded fascinating results about the future of the Furusato tax following the announcement of the abolition of the point system in October 2025.

Survey Highlights

The survey indicated that 56.7% of respondents had prior experience with the Furusato tax, with an impressive 96.0% expressing interest in continuing their participation. This statistic reinforces the notion that the Furusato tax appeals widely due to its tax-saving advantages and attractive return gifts, embodying a high level of user satisfaction.

Barriers for Non-Users

However, around 43.3% of respondents indicated they had never participated in Furusato tax programs. Key barriers identified include: 41.3% reported uncertainty about how to get started, 33.3% found the process complicated, and 24.7% did not fully understand the system. These findings suggest that potential users require clearer information and support services to facilitate their entry into the system.

Timing of Participation

Among those who engaged with the Furusato tax, peak usage occurred during the year-end period (October to December) at 47.5%, followed by 35.2% who participated in campaigns specific to the donation platforms. The timing aligns closely with the finalization of income tax and resident tax deduction limits at year-end, as well as various promotional strategies from donation sites involving point-up campaigns and exclusive products.

Awareness of Point System Changes

There is a notable awareness regarding the upcoming abolition of the point system, with 73.7% of participants acknowledging this change. Despite this, opinions on how it would affect donation amounts vary: 26.6% anticipate a decrease in usage, while nearly half (47.1%) expect no changes, and 22.8% remain uncertain. This reveals a collective hesitation among users regarding the impact of these changes on future decisions to participate.

Moreover, concerning this year's donation timing, 45.1% of respondents indicated a desire to make contributions before the point system is abolished, highlighting a potential rush to maximize existing benefits before changes take effect.

Uncertainty Post-Abuse of Points

Following the point system's repeal, 38.2% of respondents expressed their intention to continue utilizing the Furusato tax system. In contrast, 19.4% plan not to use it and 21.4% are undecided, indicating that approximately 60% of users harbor uncertainties about their future engagement with the system. This uncertainty may stem from a perceived reduction in the attraction of the Furusato tax due to the absence of point benefits.

The survey emphasizes that while the Furusato tax system maintains substantial support, the forthcoming abolishment of the point privileges may alter user behavior. Therefore, it is critical to communicate the enduring appeal of the system’s core features, such as tax benefits, the quality and storytelling behind gifts, and the fulfillment derived from supporting local governments.

Most importantly, removing the barrier of procedural complexity for non-users is paramount. Local governments and relevant service providers may need to simplify procedural flows and offer defined assistance to attract new users.

To address these challenges and educate users about the system, we at 400F provide clear explanations of the Furusato tax system, its benefits, and methods of utilizing it through our media outlet, OkaneCo Magazine.

Company Overview

Founded in November 2017, 400F is dedicated to solving financial challenges through user engagement. Our online service allows individuals to assess their financial status through a simple questionnaire and receive personalized consultation from financial professionals.

With continued efforts to support user satisfaction, we aim to empower individuals by providing access to necessary financial information and advice.