Action Line: VAT office frustrations Published July 9, 2010 By Col. William K. Lewis 48th Fighter Wing vice commander ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Why do we have to go to the VAT office three separate times when purchasing something off of the economy over 100 pounds VAT free? 1. Drop of money 2. Receive VAT free check 3. Drop off signed yellow form In Germany, military members get VAT free forms that they're able to carry around with them, and then once used the vendor turns in the appropriate paperwork. Is there a way to change this process for us? RESPONSE: Unfortunately, the rules for VAT programs are not determined by U.S. forces and differ by country based on SOFAs (Status of Forces Agreements). The United Kingdom has different rules from those found in Germany. Our operating guidelines for our VAT program are negotiated between Her Majesty's Customs and Excise Office and the Third Air Force legal team. The 48th Force Support Squadron manages this voluntary customer-use program and is obligated with ensuring all program requirements are adhered to. Given the unique situation in the United Kingdom, RAFL can be audited by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise Office at any time and potentially lose our military member's right to have VAT exemptions. While the program is cumbersome, it saves Lakenheath customers over $300,000 per year in VAT charges. ******************************************* The Action Line is your direct link to the commander for complaints, suggestions or comments. It's not intended to replace the chain of command. When normal command agency channels haven't been able to resolve your concerns, call 226-2324, e-mail Action.Line@lakenheath.af.mil , send through distribution (48 FW/PA), mail (48FW/PA, Unit 5210 Box 215 APO AE 09461-0215) or hand carry your Action Line to the public affairs office (Building 1063). You may remain anonymous; however, to receive a reply, please leave your name, unit, duty or home phone number and full APO mailing address. Names are confidential.