[StBernard] LOUISIANA STATE SALES TAX REFUND CHECKS ROADBLOCK

[Westley Annis]

Since Katrina, I have filed many refunds for the sales tax on the uninsured
contents of homes in St. Bernard Parish.  

The refunds range from several hundreds to thousands of dollars.  It takes a
few months, nevertheless my clients have been receiving their refunds. Until
recently..... 

Last week, my clients started receiving letters from the Department of
Revenue informing them the return cannot be processed without "additional
information". 
The Department of Revenue sent a form letter with boxes checked indicating
the reason why or requesting "additional information". The "additional
information"
is where I have a problem.  The "additional information" requested includes
- "documentation obtained from third parties such as copy of credit card
statements, canceled checks, loan papers, etc.
verifying that you purchased the items listed".  Once you obtain this
information, that will take YOU several months to compile, you must resubmit
your refund again!!!! THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE HAS NO LEGAL RIGHT
REQUESTING "ADDITIONAL INFORMATION" BEFORE THE CHECKS ARE ISSUED. (Unless
they suspect fraud)

If you receive this letter requesting "additional information" instead of
your refund, this is what you need to do;

1. Contact the Secretary of the Department of Revenue, Cynthia
Bridges,Secretary. The phone number is 225-219-2717. Don't leave a message
talk to her personally or Lisa.  Ask specifically what state regulation
gives the Department of Revenue the authority to request "additional
information' before the refund check is issued.  THERE IS NO LEGAL
AUTHORITY.   Be firm, but courteous.  Tell her of your
displeasure of this roadblock that the Department of Revenue has created.
The legislator passed this law to get money in the hands of the people that
need it the most.  This requested "additional information", by the the
Department of Revenue, is another roadblock to our recovery!

2. Contact every elected official you know and tell them of this roadblock.
Tell them of your issues and you want the money that is due to you.

3.  If you want to discuss this issue personally with me, I can be reached
at 504-342-4624.  


GOD BLESS,

Alan V. Thriffiley, SR