Effective January 1, 2020, the Ontario Gas Card was discontinued. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about what changed.

What happened to the Ontario Gas Card program?

To simplify how First Nation people and Band Councils buy tax-exempt gasoline the Ontario Gas Card was discontinued effective January 1, 2020.

Discontinuing the Ontario Gas Card removed the need for First Nation people to use a separate card to prove their entitlement to buy tax-exempt gasoline. It also reduced red tape, by eliminating the Ontario Gas Card application and renewal process.

Instead, First Nation individuals can use their Indian Status card (Status card), which is issued by the Government of Canada, as proof of entitlement to buy gasoline exempt from Ontario gasoline tax. Band Councils, Tribal Councils and band-empowered entities will use unique identifier numbers issued by the Ontario Ministry of Finance.

Which version of the Status Card can be used?

First Nation individuals can use the version of the card that they currently have in their possession (or may apply to the Government of Canada to obtain a Status card if they currently are not in possession of a Status Card).

As proof of entitlement to buy tax-exempt gasoline at authorized on-reserve retailers, First Nation individuals can use their:

  • Certificate of Indian Status Card, including the laminated Certificate of Indian Status Card with no renewal date;
  • Secure Certificate of Indian Status Card; or
  • Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document

For more information about the Status Card, please visit Indigenous Services Canada.

How can Band Councils, Tribal Councils and band-empowered entities get additional unique identifier numbers from the Ontario Ministry of Finance?

A Band Council requiring more identifiers or band-empowered entities and Tribal Councils, may submit an application to the Ministry of Finance at:

Ministry of Finance
33 King Street West
PO Box 625 
Oshawa ON L1H 8E9

If you need help completing the form, please call 1-866-ONT-TAXS (668-8297) or email commodity.tax@ontario.ca.

Is there a minimum age to purchase tax-exempt gasoline?

Children under 16 years of age purchasing gasoline can use their own or their parent’s Status Cards to purchase gasoline for their exclusive use (e.g., for snowmobiles or off-road vehicles).

Where can I get more information?

For more information, please call 1-866-ONT-TAXS (668-8297) or email commodity.tax@ontario.ca.
You may also mail the Ministry of Finance at:

Ministry of Finance
33 King Street West
PO Box 625
Oshawa ON L1H 8E9