Ariel Black represents ExpressTruckTax, an IRS-authorized e-file provider for filing the Heavy Duty Use Tax.
Summer is here, and you know what that means: vacations, barbecues, and…taxes?
The Heavy Vehicle Use Tax season is upon us. Below are answers to 10 of the most common questions we get about the HVUT.
1. Who needs to pay the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax?
People who own and operate a vehicle with a gross weight of 55,000 pounds.
2. What does “gross weight” mean?
Gross weight is calculated by adding these three things:
- The unloaded weight of the vehicle fully equipped for service.
- The unloaded weight of any trailers that you use in combination with the vehicle, fully equipped for service.
- The weight of the maximum load customarily carried on the vehicle and on any trailers customarily used in combination with the vehicle.
3. When is the tax due?
The HVUT tax year runs from July 1 to June 30, and the tax is pre-paid for the coming year. For vehicles that are in use by July 1, the deadline to file and pay is August 31.
4. How much will it cost me?
If the gross taxable weight is from 55,000 to 75,000 pounds, the tax is $100, plus $22 per 1,000 pounds over 55,000 pounds. For vehicles over 75,000 pounds, the tax is $550 per year.
5. How do I pay the tax?
The HVUT is paid using Form 2290 from the Internal Revenue Service. After you submit the form and pay any taxes owed, you will receive a “stamped” Schedule 1. If you file the form online, the IRS puts a digital watermark on the document. This your official proof of payment and will be accepted by the DOT, DMV, and other federal authorities.
6. Do I have to carry proof that I’ve paid the tax?
We recommend keeping a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 in your glove compartment, especially if you are crossing international borders. Border patrol will check that you have a current stamped Schedule 1 before allowing you back into the United States.
7. What happens if I don’t pay the tax?
Without this proof of payment, you will be unable to renew your tags at the DMV or renew your registration for IFTA, IRP, or UCR. Without it, you’ll be operating illegally, so your registration may be suspended.
8. What happens if I file the form late?
If your form is late or you fail to file at all, you will face a penalty of 4.5% of the total amount you owe. This will accrue on a monthly basis for up to five months. Plus, if you fail to make a HVUT payment by the deadline, you’ll face a monthly fee of 0.5%. On top of all of that, you will face an additional interest charge of .54%. These penalties will make the amount you owe skyrocket.
9. Can I file the form electronically?
Yes. When you file form 2290 online, you will receive your stamped Schedule 1 via email in a matter of minutes. ExpressTruckTax is an IRS-authorized e-file provider. To begin the e-file process with ExpressTruckTax, simply create an account and file form 2290.
10. If I have questions, whom can I contact?
If you have any questions, you can call (704) 234-6005 or email support@expresstructax.com. We offer 24-hour support in both English and Spanish.
