Furusato Nozei Changes in 2025: The End of Points and Why It's Still Worth It
Rules changed in October. Here is how to keep getting gifts by paying your taxes.
The Furusato Nozei (hometown tax) system underwent a major change in October 2025. The Ministry of Internal Affairs banned intermediary websites from offering large amounts of points as incentives. This marks the end of those "20% points back" campaigns.
Is It Still Worth Doing?
Yes! Even without extra points from websites, the main benefit remains: you pay only a ¥2,000 administrative fee and receive products (meat, rice, fruit) in exchange for the residence tax you would have to pay anyway. It's swapping tax for food.
The Cash Flow Danger
The catch with Furusato Nozei is that you must advance the money now to get the tax deduction only next year. If you donate ¥50,000 today, will you miss that money for next month's rent?
The AI Kakeibo Solution
Don't donate blindly. AI Kakeibo analyzes your monthly cash flow. Before clicking "donate" to get that Wagyu beef, check the app to see if your monthly balance can handle this advance payment. Plan your donations smartly.