Gas coupons are for official business only

  • Published
  • By Karen Abeyasekere
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
A recent H.M. Revenue and Customs inspection showed that some Airmen have made the mistake of filling up using Navy gas coupons for personal use. And, it's a mistake that could result in the loss of their tax-free gas privileges.

Every time coupons are used, it's recorded by H.M. Revenue and Customs, and anyone abusing the system can be tracked by the date and location of the transaction and the vehicle registration number.

"Coupons have been redeemed in Scotland, the Lake District and South Wales," said Lyndon B. James, 3rd Air Force-UK director of international law. "None of these well-known holiday and recreation areas have duty stations normally used by the U.S. Air Force, and H.M. Revenue and Customs have asked whether those people using coupons at those locations were driving while on official business."

Army and Air Force Exchange Service strictly follows the guidance and directives from 3rd Air Force Instruction 34-201, dated Jan. 1, 2005, where the 50-liters-per-week allotment and "duty driving" are set parameters, said Rick Mora, AAFES general manager, U.K. Consolidated Exchange.

"Those entitled to purchase Navy gas coupons must present an official U.S. government ID card and their vehicle 'blue card' (3rd Air Force Form 435)," he said. "Their printed name and signature, vehicle registration number and quantity purchased is also required and maintained on record at the facility."

According to policy, Navy gas coupons can only be used to purchase 50 liters of fuel weekly for official duty. The coupons are accepted at various British gas stations around the United Kingdom, but it's important to check with the gas station to ensure they accept the coupons before filling your vehicle.

Exception to the 50-liters-per-week limit can only be granted with a letter from the commander (squadron-level or above). The military member must provide proof there's a genuine driving requirement needing the excess gas coupons, and the commander must determine tax-free fuel from AAFES isn't available.

Gas coupons can only be purchased by U.S. Armed Forces personnel, including Reservists and Guardsmen assigned permanently or on temporary duty in the United Kingdom.

Civilian employees working in the U.K. for U.S. military departments (who aren't British nationals, and who wouldn't otherwise be living in the U.K.), including non-appropriated fund employees, can also use the coupons for official business. However, concessionaires and their employees can't.

Civilian employees who buy coupons must be employed with the military for a minimum of 20 working hours per week to be eligible.

"This is a Navy-administered program, so coupon expiration dates must be closely monitored because AAFES can't refund or replace the coupons," said Mr. Mora.

For more information, visit the RAF Mildenhall BXtra or RAF Lakenheath BX, or call DSN 238-2488.