PROPANE REBATE NOW AVAILABLE ON-LINE

Saskatchewan fuel dealers can now use the Internet to file fuel tax refund claims for eligible propane sales.

"Thanks to the Saskatchewan Electronic Tax Service – SETS – fuel dealers can submit their propane fuel tax refunds electronically," Finance Minister Harry Van Mulligen said. "It's a safe, secure, convenient, way to apply for the refund on propane, and the service is free. The program will also help Saskatchewan Finance process the refunds more quickly."

Vendors previously had to send in their propane refund applications by fax or mail. SETS now allows them to log onto a secure website with a user ID provided by Saskatchewan Finance, and file their refund on-line. Fuel dealers will no longer have to include copies of purchase invoices, although they must keep them for audit purposes.

"We are committed to customer service and providing convenient options," Van Mulligen said. "SETS has proven to be a popular service, and we're pleased to add the propane fuel refund to the array of options available."

SETS also enables businesses to file and pay provincial tax over the Internet, and farmers to renew fuel tax exemption permits on-line. Since SETS was implemented in 2001, businesses have filed about 31,000 tax returns on-line, representing close to $400 million in taxes. Two years ago, about four per cent of all tax returns and renewals were filed using SETS. So far in 2004-05, over 11 per cent have been filed through SETS, including more than 25 per cent of all International Fuel Tax Agreement returns.

Fuel dealers who want more information or would like to register for the propane fuel tax rebate can call 1-800-667-6102 or visit the Finance website at www.gov.sk.ca/finance/revenue/efile.

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For More Information, Contact:

Debbie Clark Finance Regina Phone: (306) 787-8109