Tax back for U.S. citizens
 

Hey, <BR>I had a wonderful Labor day weekend in Toronto. Great people, food, fun and lots of shopping. I brought back a tax refund form I assumed was produced by Revenue Canada. After reading the very small print this appears to be a private service that charges 20% of total reimbursement. Is there a way to process this directly with the Canadian Government????

Miki, I just returned from Nova Scotia and was able to pick up a pamphlet with forms to fill out/mail in as I traveled along. The address that I have to send in the form/reciepts to is: <BR> Visitor Rebate Program <BR> Summerside Tax Centre <BR> Canada Customs and Revenue Agency <BR> 275 Pope Road, Suite 104 <BR> Summerside, PE C1N6C6 <BR> Canada <BR> <BR>I hope this is a real government agency and not a "service" as you've found, but if it is, perhaps you could write and get a copy for yourself. I think you have a year to apply for the rebate. <BR> <BR>Does anyone know how the repaid is paid? Is it in US or Canadian funds? <BR> <BR>

Ann, the two times I've applied by mail (as opposed to in person at a duty-free shop), I've received a check in US funds. It took a good 4-6 weeks (maybe even a bit longer) both times, if my memory serves. <BR> <BR>

The tax form that you brought back is not an &lt;&lt;official&gt;&gt; Canadian government form. It is a service that is authorized to do the same thing as the government office, though they take out a 20% commission. The government does NOT. The address that Ann quoted is, and this form can also be downloaded from the Canadian Government Website. <BR> <BR>Good Luck. <BR>Ross. :-)

http://www.ccra-adrc.gc.ca/tax/nonre...ors/tax-e.html <BR> <BR>This is the site where you can download the official government form. Be sure to read all the instructions. Note that for purchases, you must have had your receipts stamped at the border (a new rule instituted last year).

Miki, you were smart to read the fine print. I almost got taken by this rip-off last month. <BR> <BR>Use the forms Donna references. One small clarification: if you left Canada by car or bus, you needed to have your receipts validated, if by plane you only need to send in your departing flight's boarding pass. This is new - I had to fish mine out of the trash.

Sheri, thanks for the info on method of repayment. I'll just be patient. Adding to what Brian said about how one departs Canada, if you leave by ferry (as many people do from Nova Scotia) the boarding pass or original reciept from the tickets is what's needed according to the perser on the ferry.

Many, many thanks to all of you for your sage advice and assistance. A very warm greeting from rainy Key West. <BR>Miki