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THIS WEEK: VRT refund scheme for exports is on the way
From VK: I'm originally from Lithuania but moved to Ireland 10 years ago. About three years ago I imported a car from the UK as I could not find an estate version with the spec I liked and condition I would buy here in Ireland. I paid the VRT on it. Now I have decided to bring this car to Lithuania. Can I claim back some of the VRT paid on vehicle? Also, do I need to de-register this car in Ireland and get temporary number plates so it can be registered in other EU member state?
A VRT rebate system for those exporting used cars is included in the Finance Bill, but this has yet to be enacted. Even then the rebate scheme requires a Ministerial order to be introduced. It's likely to operate in the same way as the VRT charges for imports, with valuations based on the current Revenue Online system and the administration and final values carried out at NCT centres. There is likely to be an administration charge for the service, with some suggesting it will be in the order of €500. It's likely that the refund payment will not be made until the car is re-registered. In terms of de-registering a car, you need to inform the local motor tax office, but when the new system is in place the rest should sort itself out in due course. I think it's well worth your while to wait until the new refund scheme is introduced before you ship your car.
From NA: Quick question for you: single adult living in the city in need of cheap and affordable runaround that will get me to Athlone twice a month. I've about €2,500 to spend on the motor and not much to run it. I have been offered an 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 and a 2001 BMW 3-Series by the neighbourhood car dealer. What would you recommend?
It might be tempting to have an Alfa or BMW in the car park, but if your budget is tight, then you won't really have the cash to cover the inevitable servicing and repair costs that come with owning older high-mileage cars. I think you should opt for something younger, smaller and affordable, ideally with a year's warranty.