4 March 2002

"People are missing out on hundreds of dollars of tax rebates because the Inland Revenue Department is failing to advise them of their rights," says National's Revenue spokesperson Annabel Young.

"The Inland Revenue Department puts virtually no effort into publicising the taxpayer's right to claim a rebate for charitable donations. Most people don't know that they can claim 33 cents for every dollar donated, up to a maximum of donations worth $1,500. The Department should put as much effort into this as they do into publicising the taxpayer's liabilities.

"Not only are individuals missing out, but charities are also affected because many donors might give more if they realised that the IRD would give them one-third back.

"Statistics show that fewer people are claiming back their tax on donations. Since 1999, the total amount claimed has dropped by 8 million dollars. There is no evidence that charities are getting less, so it must be that generous donors are missing out."

"Anyone wanting to make a claim should ring the IRD to get a form. They can make a claim as soon as they have a receipt for a donation," said Ms Young.

Ends

© Scoop Media