Minneapolis – The planned launch of e-bike rebate program applications in Minnesota has been delayed due to a technical issue.
Minnesota residents interested in purchasing a new e-bike were supposed to be able to apply for a rebate starting Wednesday at 11 a.m. When the app, which is managed by Minnesota IT Services and hosted on the Minnesota Department of Revenue’s website, launched, many users found they were unable to access it.
“We are working with external technology vendors participating in this program to understand and fix technical issues with the site,” the Revenue Department said. “The Minnesota Department of Revenue and Minnesota IT Services apologize to potential rebate applicants for this inconvenience.”
No new launch date for the applications has been announced.
The discount ranges from 50 to 75% of the cost of the e-bike and qualifying accessories, up to a maximum of $1,500. Discounts will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Total rebates are limited to $2 million annually in 2024 and 2025, the state says.
If someone is approved, they receive a discount certificate via email, and then have two months to go to one of the approved retailers and purchase their new bike. The store will then apply the discount to the discount certificate at the time of purchase.
“Even though we’ve been more than a year in preparation, we’ve taken down a government website,” said Michael Wojcik, executive director of the Bicycle Alliance. “There’s little pride — policymakers, think about what’s going on here. That’s how popular this program is.” “. of Minnesota, a nonprofit that helped pass rebate legislation last year.
E-bikes are a “game changer,” he said, because they make bicycles more accessible and a more reliable year-round transportation option.
Given the cost of e-bikes, discounting is an important part of making sure the ride is accessible. In fact, 40% of the $4 million allocated over the next two years should go to people who make less than $41,000 a year.
It is also expected to give a boost to bike shops.
“The amount of people interested in e-bikes — it’s attracting a lot of new people, which we’re very excited about as a bike shop,” said Christina Montoya, co-owner of Hub Bike Co. Previous reference.
In an update Wednesday afternoon, the state said the portal closed at 1:30 p.m. Officials are working to identify anyone who has applied to ensure their information is successfully submitted.
How much is the discount?
The deduction is determined by the applicant’s income for 2023. It is worth between 50-75% of the cost of the bike, up to $1,500.
To estimate your deduction based on your income, click here.
Who is eligible for the e-bike discount?
To be eligible for the discount, a person must be at least 15 years old. They must have lived in Minnesota for the current and previous year and must not be claimed as dependents in 2023.
For more information, including a list of authorized retailers, click here.
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