IRS reminds truckers of upcoming tax deadline
The IRS has issued a reminder for those who operate large trucks and buses to file Form 2290, Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Return, by Tuesday, September 3, 2024.
This deadline applies to vehicles that were first used in July 2024.
The usual August 31 deadline has been extended to the next business day due to the date falling on a Saturday this year.
Who must file Form 2290?
The Form 2290 filing requirement applies to highway vehicles with a gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more that are registered or are required to be registered under the law.
The annual taxable period for these vehicles runs from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
Key filing deadlines:
- Vehicles first used in July 2024: Must file Form 2290 and pay the appropriate tax between July 1, 2024, and September 3, 2024.
- Vehicles first used after July 2024: Taxpayers must file Form 2290 by the last day of the month following the month in which the vehicle is first used on a public highway. The tax is prorated for the months the vehicle is in service.
A table to help determine specific filing deadlines is available on IRS.gov.
Benefits of e-filing Form 2290
The IRS strongly encourages taxpayers to e-file Form 2290 through a provider participating in the IRS e-file program for excise taxes.
E-filing is convenient, fast, and secure. A stamped Schedule 1, which serves as proof of payment, is available within minutes once the return is accepted by the IRS.
This stamped Schedule 1 is generally required when registering vehicles with a state or when entering a Canadian or Mexican vehicle into the United States.
E-filing requirements and options:
- Mandatory e-filing: Taxpayers with 25 or more taxed vehicles registered in their name must e-file Form 2290.
- For vehicles with low mileage: A return is required for vehicles expected to have a use of 5,000 miles or less (7,500 for farm vehicles), but no tax is due unless the vehicle exceeds the mileage limit during the tax period.
- Filing by mail: Taxpayers who opt to file by mail should use the correct mailing address. They will receive their stamped Schedule 1 within six weeks after the IRS processes the form.
Payment options
Taxpayers can choose from several payment methods when filing Form 2290:
- Credit or debit card or digital wallet.
- Electronic funds withdrawal when e-filing.
- Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) (requires advanced enrollment).
-
Mail check or money order using Form 2290-V, Payment Voucher, to:
Internal Revenue Service
P.O. Box 932500
Louisville, KY 40293-2500
Information needed for filing
Having the correct and complete information ready when filing Form 2290 will streamline the process.
Taxpayers should have the following details on hand:
- Vehicle Identification Number(s) (VIN)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) – not a Social Security number. (Note: It can take up to four weeks to establish a new EIN. See IRS.gov for details on how to apply for an EIN.)
- Name as it appears on the EIN application
- Taxable gross weight of each vehicle
The IRS urges all truckers and bus operators to file Form 2290 on time to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations. For more details and e-filing options, visit IRS.gov.
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