These gas stations are cheating drivers. Disturbing inspection results

Since the introduction of the CPN package, the tax office has carried out almost 8,000 station control. It turns out that almost 500 of them sell fuel at an inflated price.

Initially, the government package “Fuel Prices Lower” (CPN) was to remain in force until today. However, on Wednesday, the ministers of finance and energy announced its extension for another two weeks, i.e. until the end of May. Let us remind you that the package introduced at the end of March assumes a reduction in the VAT rate on fuels from 23%. up to 8%, a reduction in excise duty to the minimum EU levels (by PLN 29/l for petrol and PLN 28/l for diesel), as well as the introduction of a maximum retail price for fuels. It is determined according to a specific formula, taking into account the average wholesale price of fuels on the domestic market, to which are added, among others, excise duty, fuel fee, sales margin of PLN 0.30 per liter and VAT.

Almost 500 stations do not comply with CPN rules

The regulations oblige fuel sellers to charge prices no higher than the announced limits. Exceeding the maximum price is subject to a penalty of up to PLN 1 million, and inspections in this area are carried out by the National Tax Administration (KAS).

According to data from the Ministry of Finance obtained by “Fakt”, in the period March 31-May 11 this year. 7,762 such inspections were carried out. Irregularities were detected at 439 gas stations, most in the province. Masovia, Lower Silesia and Podlasie. It turns out, however, that so far not a single fine has been imposed, which does not mean that stations will get away with selling gasoline and diesel at inflated prices.

— Proceedings to impose fines are conducted by the competent authorities of the National Tax Administration, i.e. heads of customs and tax offices, in an administrative manner, applying the provisions of the Tax Ordinance. In the event of a customs and fiscal inspection, the initiation of proceedings to impose a financial penalty may take place after 14 days from the date of delivery of the inspection report to the inspected person. This deadline results from the need to provide the party with the opportunity to become acquainted with the findings of the inspection and to raise any objections to the report — the Ministry of Finance informed “Fakt”.

The Ministry emphasizes that, in accordance with applicable regulations, after initiating proceedings, the KAS authority is obliged to ensure that the party actively participates in the proceedings, including the opportunity to present its position, evidence and explanations. After conducting the evidentiary proceedings, the competent KAS authority will issue an administrative decision in which it will decide on the amount of the financial penalty.

Let us remind you that the rates applicable today for individual fuels are: