Tax Relief on the Way for Nova Scotians

Nova Scotia taxpayers will begin to feel income tax relief in a matter of days. The first part of the Nova Scotia government's lower taxes program kicks in on Monday, June 16, when close to 448,000 Nova Scotians will be eligible for a $155 taxpayer refund.

"Lower taxes help working families. We're getting the taxpayer refund into the hands of working Nova Scotians as soon as possible," said Finance Minister Neil LeBlanc. "This is solid proof of our commitment to Nova Scotians to lower taxes."

The Nova Scotia taxpayer refund program covers the period from July 1 to Dec. 31, 2003.

The second part of the lower taxes initiative begins Jan. 1, 2004, when income tax rates will be reduced by 10 per cent. Nova Scotians will see the tax relief through lower deductions on their paycheques. As a result, Nova Scotia will offer the lowest personal income tax rates in Atlantic Canada. The lower tax rates also mean more than 3,500 Nova Scotians will no longer pay provincial income taxes.

"Lower taxes will also improve Nova Scotia's competitive position with other provinces and will be key to our long-term economic growth and prosperity," Mr. LeBlanc said.

About 392,000 Nova Scotia residents will receive a cheque for $155 based on their 2001 or 2002 tax returns. Instead of a cheque, about 56,000 Nova Scotians who currently owe more than that to either the federal or provincial government will get a notice that the $155 will be paid against their debt. Nova Scotians eligible for the refund based on the 2003 tax year will receive their cheque next year.

Canada Customs and Revenue Agency is administering the delivery of the cheques on behalf of the Nova Scotia government. Beginning June 16, call toll free 1-877-877-4960 for more information. People who believe they are eligible for a refund and do not receive a cheque by late June should call the same number on or after Wednesday, July 2. Until then, for more information e-mail to [email protected] . For service in French, call 1-877-877- 5263.

Note: For more information on the Nova Scotia Taxpayers' Refund call 1-877-877-4960