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‘Only $5M in rebates remain unpaid’
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Posted on May 30 2004
The administration continues to process 2002 tax rebate and refund checks, and is expecting to meet its projected goal of completely issuing all checks by next month.
This according to press secretary Peter A. Callaghan, who said last Friday the disbursement of checks has totaled about $15 million.
“There are some $20 million that needed to be paid out, and of the amount, we have already issued $15 million, leaving just slightly over $5 million remaining,” he said.
Callaghan said the issuance of checks occurs almost every other week, depending on the financial obligation of the government.
“We are on track as far as our June projection is concerned. Rebate checks are being mailed in batches every other non-government payday Friday until all checks are released,” he said.
Callaghan assured the release of checks will continue, except in cases where the Finance Department has to meet large cash disbursements, like vendor payments, which means certain batches may be delayed by a few days.
He said the government is still optimistic it will meet the projected date of complete disbursement, but adds that there may be a slight adjustment to the date.
“We’re looking at getting everything paid by June or early July, barring any unforeseen emergency,” he said.
The Saipan Tribune attempted to contact acting Finance Secretary Cathy Villagomez, but was told that she was at an appointment and could not be reached.
Earlier, Callaghan said the government is putting aside $2 million each month from revenue collections to be able to pay the rebates.
He said that, after the June 2004 release target is achieved, the Department of Finance would immediately start fresh funds infusion for the year 2003 rebate account.
By the end of July 2004, Callaghan said the Revenue & Taxation Division will start processing tax year 2003 refunds and rebates for immediate release.
“By year 2005, we will be current with all rebates and refunds,” he said.
