Category: Truck Tax

You Asked, We Answered: 6 Popular IFTA Questions

Posted on April 19, 2017 by - File Fuel Tax IFTA, IFTA, ifta deadline, IFTA fuel Tax filing, IFTA Information, ifta report, IFTA return, International Fuel Tax Agreement, Truck Tax, truckers, trucking

Any time when taxes are involved things can get confusing. You have to when deadlines are, what materials are required to file, how to file, and more. With the 3rd quarter IFTA deadline quickly approaching on October 31st, we, the truck tax experts at ExpressTruckTax, decided to take it upon ourselves to be your resource guide, by answering common IFTA questions.

Popular IFTA Questions

When is IFTA Due?

IFTA is actually due four times a year, which is why your IFTA report is commonly referred to as your ‘quarterly IFTA report’. The IFTA deadlines are as follows:

1st Quarter – April 30th
2nd Quarter – July 31st
3rd Quarter – October 31st
4th Quarter – January 31st

It just so happens that this year the 1st quarter IFTA deadline falls on a weekend, Sunday, April 30th,  and when IFTA deadlines are on a weekend or federal holiday they’re pushed back to the next business day.

2. What exactly is IFTA?

IFTA is the International Fuel Tax Agreement and it is an agreement with the 48 contiguous states in the US and 10 Canadian provinces that’s designed to simplify the fuel use reporting for qualifying motor carriers that operate in more than one jurisdiction (state).

Now you may be wondering what a qualifying motor vehicle is, so we will clear that up. A qualify motor vehicle is vehicle or combination of vehicles that are designed, used, or maintained for the transportation of property of people that have two axles and a gross vehicle weight over 26,000 pounds, two axles and a registered weight exceeding 26,000 pounds, three or more axles regardless of weight, or a combination weight exceeding 26,000 pounds.

3. I rarely travel outside of my jurisdiction, do I need an IFTA license?

You don’t necessarily need an IFTA permit, but you will need a temporary fuel permit, which allows qualifying vehicles without IFTA credentials to temporarily travel in their intended state. To get your temporary permit contact a DMV in the state you will be traveling in. You will need to provide them with information such as your VIN, vehicle model, and more.

Each state has their own temporary trip permit regulations. Some offer temporary permits with varying prices and lengths of time, so you may purchase the one the best suits your travel needs.

4. How do I prove that I Filed my IFTA Report?

You will receive a copy of your IFTA license on an annual basis as long as you file your quarterly reports. Keep a copy of your license in your office and in your qualifying vehicles at all times.

Also, you will have two IFTA decals to display on your truck. It’s best to keep them clearly displayed under the window on your driver door.

When you travel without your IFTA license or decals, you will be subject to receiving a fine and you may have to purchase a temporary permit, or both.

5. What Happens if my IFTA Return is Late?

If your IFTA Return is late, or you fail to file, your base jurisdiction may give you a penalty of $50 or 10% of the taxes owed, depending on which is greater. Also, your base jurisdiction reserves the right to impose additional penalties based on their laws.

Plus, your base jurisdiction will assess the amount of unpaid taxes you owe to each jurisdiction and interest will accrue on that amount at a rate of 1% per month.

6. What do I Need to Complete my IFTA Report?

You will need the following information to complete your IFTA return:

The total miles taxable and nontaxable, traveled by all the licensee’s qualified motor vehicles per jurisdiction. This includes IFTA and non-IFTA miles, and trip permit miles.

The total gallons of fuel consumed by the licensee’s qualified motor vehicles per jurisdiction, including taxable and nontaxable, IFTA, and non-IFTA.

The taxable gallons used and purchased per jurisdiction.

And the current tax rate per jurisdiction.

Do You Have More Questions?

Well then ask us! We’re IFTA experts, and we’re here to help. Feel free to contact our dedicated support team with any questions that you may have. We’re available Monday – Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM EST at 704.234.6005. We’re also available via live chat and offer 24/7 email support at support@expresstrucktax.com

ExpressTruckTax is #TruckingForACure

Posted on October 12, 2015 by - #TruckingForACure, Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, HVUT, Truck Tax, trucking news

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as most of you know. Since 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives, there are few of us who aren’t touched and affected by this terrible disease.
Personally, I lost a high school friend to breast cancer this October 4th. Most of us here at ExpressTruckTax have been directly affected by losses from breast cancer, and it’s no wonder because breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death among women. Luckily, awareness and support have been building in recent years to find a cure.

We here at ExpressTruckTax are committed to helping find a cure for breast cancer. Although more and more activities and efforts on the part of finding a cure are taking place around the calendar year, October is the time to focus intensely on raising awareness, as well as funds, towards finding that cure.

United Materials, a concrete company in North Tonawanda, New York, is one member of the Trucking Nation who has stepped up and is making a difference in the fight. Not only has the company committed to raise money to fund research and help those affected, it’s also increased awareness by getting its pink concrete truck out on the road for everyone to see. Remember, pink is the adopted color for breast cancer awareness. Since the pink ribbon is the easily recognizable symbol of the fight for a cure, the pink United Materials concrete truck has a prominent pink ribbon on its side.

With the slogan “Our Commitment to the Cure is Concrete,” United Materials demonstrates its dedication to help find a cure and aid those families affected by breast cancer. The Western New York concrete company states that its pink concrete truck’s purpose is “to honor all survivors of breast cancer throughout the Niagara Region.”

Over 500 man hours were donated last year by United Materials’ more than 100 employees towards fundraising and awareness events in Western New York. Their pink concrete truck and employees have shown up to throw support behind their “Commitment to the Cure.”

This pink truck is just one example of how the hard-working members of the Trucking Nation can and are making a difference. There are countless pink trucks out on the roads, and their numbers are increasing every day. ExpressTruckTax is grateful for all your contributions and efforts to raise awareness of the need to find a cure for breast cancer. Keep it up, Trucking Nation, by joining the ExpressTruckTax team in raising awareness via social media!

Use #TruckingForACure and let us know your reason

for joining the fight against breast cancer!

As always, we’re here to help you and answer any questions you may have about ExpressTruckTax. You can call us at 704.234.6005 or email us any time at support@expresstrucktax.com.

Don’t Get Rejected: Simple E-filing Mistakes to Avoid

Posted on August 24, 2015 by - Employer Identification Number, Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, HVUT, Truck Tax, Vehicle first use month


Mistakes happen, especially on your taxes. But if you don’t take the time to learn from them, you’re doomed to repeat the same mistakes all over again.

And with just 8 days left to e-file before the deadline, you don’t have much room for error. That’s where we come in! Don’t get rejected, avoid these simple e-filing mistakes and make sure that the IRS will accept your return. 

1. Incorrect EIN or VIN

The number one mistake you want to avoid is mixing up some numbers or letters in your EIN, or VIN. Now we know these numbers can be long, and sometimes hard to remember, but you should always check, double check, and triple check to make sure you’ve got it down correctly. 

And you should also make sure you register you EIN right away! It takes the IRS up to two weeks in order to make your EIN active. So if you don’t have one yet, unfortunately it’s too late to get it and still e-file on time.

2. Computation Errors

Tax math can be complicated, but we’ve got an app for that! Not to mention, our automated system automatically calculates what you owe based on a few simple questions about your business and your vehicle. Don’t waste your time doing complicated tax math when we could do all the work for you.

3. Incorrect Filing Status or Filing Year

Sometimes dates and mileage can be tricky, but make sure you know your vehicle well enough to know how to file, and what year to file for. 

Your filing status has a lot to do with your vehicle’s mileage. For instance, if you know you’ve travelled under the 5,000 mile limit (7,500 for agricultural vehicles), you should file your vehicle as suspended. 

Then you need to make sure you’re selecting the correct year to file for. If you’re filing for the most recent tax year, you’ll select the 2015-16 tax year. We actually select it for you as you move through our program, to make things easier for you. So you only have to select a different filing year if you’re filing for a previous tax season.

4. Incorrect First-Used Month

While this error won’t necessarily get your return rejected, it will cause some issues when it comes time to get your new tags.

The HVUT tax year begins July 1st, which means for all renewals the first-used month is automatically July—even if you’re filing in August. The only time you would choose a later month is if you purchased your Heavy Vehicle after the beginning of the HVUT tax year. For example, if you purchased a new truck in September, that becomes your first-used month.

5. Duplicate Vehicle Information

You don’t want to enter in a single vehicle more than once. This mistake could cost you, literally! If you do accidentally enter your vehicle twice, you can easily remedy the situation by selecting the “remove” button located next to the duplicate vehicle.

So be vigilant, Trucking Nation, make sure you’re checking those returns twice, and thrice if you need to. Avoid errors at all costs, especially these common ones!

But if you find yourself unsure or if you have any questions, we’re here for you! We have a dedicated, year-round support team to help you succeed. So give them a call at 704.234.6005, or send them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish!

The Benefits of E-filing Form 2290 Anywhere With our Mobile App

Posted on August 20, 2015 by - 2290 deadline, Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, HVUT, Schedule 1, Truck Tax


E-Filing your Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes can be a hassle, but with the ExpressTruckTax smartphone and tablet apps, you can e-file your 2290s with ease.
As leaders in the e-filing industry, we know how to treat our e-filers right. And with HVUT season ending in less than 10 days, we’ve got your back!

All you have to do is download the ExpressTruckTax app from the App Store or Google Play Store, and you can reap the endless benefits of e-filing anywhere! Plus we’ve still got the best value in the industry at just $9.90 for a single truck filing.

So prepare to be amazed, Trucking Nation, because the endless benefits are app can offer you will change the way you e-file your Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes.

So join the e-filing revolution and take a look at just a few of the amazing benefits you can expect when you e-file with ExpressTruckTax.



2290 Tax Calculator App: With this specialized calculator app for iPhone and Android, you’ll never have to make another HVUT tax calculation. Our tax calculator will do all the work for you! In fact, you can find out exactly how much you owe in less than 5 minutes, and before you e-file. 
RigMinders App: RigMinders is a specialized reminder app just for truckers! RigMinders can remind you about trucking industry deadlines (like HVUT and IFTA) for your own truck, or a whole fleet. You can also program in personal deadlines, and maintenance appointments. It’s available for both iPhone and Android.





The Support Legends: Our dedicated support legends will be there for you every step of the way. In fact, they’re even here in the HVUT off season! And they’ll be ready to answer all of your tax questions at the drop of a hat, from right here in Rock Hill, SC. So be prepared for some legendary phone support, 24/hour email support, and chat support in both English and Spanish.
E-file Anywhere: With our app you can e-file anywhere. From in the cab of your truck, to your mechanic’s waiting room. Just follow three simple steps, and you’ll be done in 20 minutes or less! Then you can get your Stamped Schedule 1 and get back to your life.

Convenient Payment Methods: The IRS does not accept credit or debit cards for tax payments, but we do offer three easy ways to pay. You can pay through Direct Debit, EFTPS, or Check or Money Order.

Instant Audit: Before you securely transmit your return to the IRS, our automated system will scan it for errors. Just one more thing to make sure you e-file successfully!

Notifications: We have a 4 notification system when it comes to your truck taxes. Gone are the days of waiting on the edge of your seat to make sure your return has been accepted, and that you’ve gotten your Stamped Schedule 1.

Now we can send you a notification through email, text, fax, or all of the above. And we can even fax your Stamped Schedule 1 to anyone who needs it! Whether it’s your carrier, home office, or your spouse. And last, but not least, we can still send your Stamped Schedule 1 by postal mail if prefer to have a paper copy.

Automatic Stamped Schedule 1: You can get your Stamped Schedule 1 by e-mail automatically! All it takes is less than 10 minutes IRS to get your return, accept it, and send you a proof-of-filing. Then you can renew your registration, and you’re all done!

Retrieve Docs: You can retrieve important tax documents from your ExpressTruckTax dashboard at any time. You can even re-download, and reprint your Stamped Schedule 1 if you ever misplace it or need another copy.

You can do all this and more when you e-file from your smartphone with the ExpressTruckTax app. And if you need any help along the way, our dedicated support legends are here for you. All you have to do is give them a call at 704.234.6005 or send them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish.

And don’t forget, you have less than 10 days to e-file before the deadline. Don’t pay the IRS more than you have to! E-file now to avoid paying penalties.

Perks for Owner-Operators

Posted on August 18, 2015 by - Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, HVUT, Owner Operators, Partners, Schedule 1, Truck Tax

ExpressTruckTax PartnersRunning a trucking business isn’t easy, especially during tax time, but here at ExpressTruckTax, we’ve got you covered!

We work very closely with some amazing owner-operator based associations as well as one-on-one with several fantastic trucking companies. Navigating a trucking business around HVUT season might seem like a nightmare, but with the perks we offer to owner-operators, we can turn that nightmare into a dream come true.

We’ve partnered with Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), America’s Independent Trucker’s Association (AITA), National Minority Trucking Association (NMTA), and South Carolina Trucking Association (SCTA) and even more amazing associations in order to make e-filing for truck taxes so much easier.

And we’re succeeding in helping tons of truckers and owner-operators file their Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes, and get their Stamped Schedule 1 in minutes!

Here are just a few of the ways we help our Owner-Operators succeed during the HVUT season. If you’re a member of one of these associations, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start reaping the benefits.

  • Customized E-filing Portals
    • Our owner-operators enjoy a customized ExpressTruckTax portal on their company websites where they can e-file with ease.
  • Never Lose Another Day of Work for HVUT
    • When you e-file with ExpressTruckTax, or your personalized tax portal, you can do it directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. You don’t have to wait in line at the IRS office, or worry about making an appointment just to file. 
  • Educational Materials about Taxes
    • Figuring out how to file HVUT can be tough. That’s why ExpressTruckTax provides our partners with some much needed materials to educate their owner-operators and members on how to correctly file their taxes and stay current with IRS regulations.
  • 24/7 Free Support
    • We’re there for our you for 24/7, no matter what! We can address problems anytime of day (or night) and get them handled quickly and professionally.
  • Free Automatic E-mail with Stamped Schedule 1
    • As soon as you e-file, you’ll get your Stamped Schedule 1 e-mailed to you automatically! You can also select other options to receive your Stamped Schedule 1 by fax, postal mail, or you can download it directly from your truck tax dashboard.

And these are things nobody else is doing. But with us, our customers will always come first and get the best service and product available. It’s just that simple!

If you need any help e-filing your HVUT or using your personalized portal, don’t hesitate to ask our dedicated support legends. All you have to do is call them at 704.234.6005 or send them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish.

The Countdown is On: How to E-file for Farmers

Posted on August 10, 2015 by - 2290 deadline, agricultural vehicle, Expresstrucktax.com, farmers, Form 2290, HVUT, Schedule 1, Truck Tax

It’s harvest time, Trucking Nation! And for more than just for crops. Your Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes are due on your agricultural vehicle by the end of the month.

So get ready to renew your tags, farmers! Because keeping your tags up-to-date and filing your HVUT on time is a great way to stay in the good graces of the IRS. And you need to file your 2290’s so you’ll able to renew your vehicle registration on time, or you could face serious consequences and penalties.

Filing for suspended, logging, or agricultural vehicles is a little bit different than filing for a taxable vehicle. Because Agricultural Vehicles get a larger allotment of mileage before they are considered taxable and not suspended vehicles. For example, regular taxable vehicles have a 5,000 mile limit before they are no longer considered suspended, while agricultural vehicles have a 7,500 mile limit.

While the difference in how you file isn’t anything extreme, we’ve got a handy dandy guide to show you how to file specifically for agricultural vehicles.
How to File for Agricultural Vehicles

When e-filing for agricultural vehicles, simply follow the same three easy steps as usual, but with a slight twist when entering your vehicle information.

Step 1: Account Setup  

  • If you already have an account with us, all you have to do is login.
  • However, if you’ve never created an account with us before, then go ahead and select “Create Account,” and then enter your email address and a password of your choosing to get started.
    • Pro-tip #1: To save time, you can also choose to login with your Google Account, or Facebook Account.
  • Next, enter your business details. Including your EIN, business name, and signing authority.
  • Select “File for Current Tax Year,” and then finally, click “Next” to move on to vehicle details.

Step 2: Vehicle Details

  • This is where you all all of your vehicle information. If you’re a returning user, chances are you have some vehicles saved in Truck Zone. 
  • But if you’re a new user, you have some choices on how to upload your new vehicle information. You can enter the vehicles one-by-one manually, or you can use an excel file.
  • Remember to choose the right section for your vehicle. Since you are using agricultural and farming equipment, your vehicle may be classified under suspended if you’re under 7,500 miles for the tax year. 

  • If this is the case, skip the taxable vehicle section and choose to add your vehicle under suspended instead.
  • If your vehicle has gone over the mileage limit, simply add your truck under “Taxable Vehicles” and move on to the next step.

Step 3: Transmit

    • Next, review your details and make certain everything is correct. Our system will also review your information for you, just in case.
    • And finally, you can securely transmit your return to the IRS, and get your Stamped Schedule 1 back via email in minutes.

    That’s it! It really is that simple. Three tiny steps that are imperative for staying compliant and renewing your vehicle registration come tax season.

    If you need any help along the way, just ask our dedicated support legends! You can give them a call at 704.234.6005 during our new extended business hours from 8AM to 8PM EST, or you can shoot them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish.

    The Countdown is On: Form 2290 Bootcamp

    Posted on August 4, 2015 by - 2290 deadline, Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, HVUT, Schedule 1, Truck Tax

    We interrupt your regularly scheduled #TruckTechTuesday, to bring you 2290 bootcamp!

    We know you must have questions, and we’ve got the answers. Here’s everything you’ve ever wondered about HVUT, broken down into one easy read. Because that’s what ExpressTruckTax is all about, making things easier for the trucking industry!

    What is Form 2290?

    IRS Form 2290 with Schedule 1 is a tax form that must be filed each year for all taxable highway vehicles that are registered, or required to be registered in your name under state, District of Columbia, Canadian, or Mexican law.

    That means if you own a heavy vehicle, a vehicle that has a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more, or have one registered in your name in the US, District of Columbia, Canada, or Mexico, you need to file Form 2290 and pay the excise tax every year!

    When to File

    You need to file your 2290 every year beginning in July. The regular HVUT tax year begins on July 1 and ends the following June. But tax for the year is due during the renewal period, which is typically from July 1st to August 31st of each year, giving you two whole months to e-file.

    However, if you purchase a new vehicle during the tax year, then your HVUT is due the month after you purchase a new vehicle. Meaning if you purchased your vehicle in August, your HVUT would be due September 31.

    When Is the Deadline?

    The 2290 deadline to file for renewals is on August 31, every year. This means you now have less than a month to e-file! However, if you purchased your vehicle later during the tax year, your first-used month and your tax due date will be different.

    You have a month to file after you purchase your new vehicle, for example, if you purchase your vehicle in October, your taxes are due at the end of November or you will face penalties.

    However, it is better to e-file right away. That way you can have your taxes filed and out of the way until the next tax year, and you don’t have to worry about missing any deadlines and getting penalized for it.

    When Do I Need to Renew?

    You need to renew your HVUT every year during the renewal period. If you wait to file, you risk facing some pretty hefty penalties for not filing. That and you can’t renew your vehicle registration with the DMV.

    Is This a State Tax?

    No, unlike IFTA, HVUT it is a federally-mandated tax. As stated previously, if you have a heavy vehicle registered, or required to be registered in your name in North America, and Mexico, you are required to file yearly Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes.

    If you have any more questions about the 2290 and how to file, our dedicated support legends are here for you! So give us a call at 704.234.6005 during our new extended business hours from 8AM to 8PM EST. Or you can send them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish.

    The Countdown is On: E-file Before the HVUT Deadline

    Posted on August 3, 2015 by - 2290 deadline, EFTPS, Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, HVUT, Schedule 1, Truck Tax

    If you haven’t filed your Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes for this year, then you’re running out of time! You have less than a month left to e-file by the due date on August 31.

    But before you e-file there are some things you need to know to get started. From your EIN, VIN, and Gross Vehicle Weight to the actual e-filing process, we’ve got you covered!

    What You Need Before you E-file

    • Your EIN
    • Access to Internet
    • Computer, Tablet, or Smartphone
    • Your VIN
    • Your Gross Vehicle Weight

    Once you have all that, it’s time to e-file. All you have to do is follow the simple guide below, then you’re all done!

    How to E-file

    With ExpressTruckTax you can rest assured the e-filing process is incredibly easy. In fact, just follow three simple steps, and you’ll be done in no time!

    Step 1: Account Setup

    • If you’ve created an account with us, simply login to your account.
    • If you’ve never created an account with us before, then go ahead and hit “Create Account”, then enter your email address and a password of your choosing to get started.
      • Pro-tip #1: To save time, you can also choose to login with your Google account or your Facebook Account. 
    • Now you need to enter all your business details, including your EIN, business name, and any signing authority you may have. 
    • Then you can move on and e-file your 2290 for the current tax year.

    Step 2: Vehicle Details

    • Now you need to add all of your vehicle information. If you’re a returning user, you can select the trucks you filed for previously using Truck Zone. 
    • If you are a new user, you can input your vehicle information one of two ways: 
    • You can choose to do it manually, entering one truck at a time
    • Or you can upload all of your trucks in one fell swoop from a, Excel file.
    • And remember, there are three different types of vehicles you can file for. So know the differences!

    Step 3: Pay & Securely Transmit

    • Now all you need to do is select your payment method and transmit your return!
      • Pro-tip #2: The IRS only accepts three payment methods: Direct Debit, EFTPS, and check or money order. They do not accept debit or credit cards.
    • After you’ve decided how to pay, review your details on last time and make sure everything is correct. Our system will also review your information for you, just in case. 
    • Then you can securely transmit your return to the IRS, and get your Stamped Schedule 1 back via email in minutes.

    Links to Help You E-file

    If you have any questions about other parts of the e-filing process, or how to make sure you’re prepared, we’ve got tons of guides for you to follow!  Hopefully we’ve answered every question you could think of to ask, but if you still need help we have an amazing US-Based support team ready and waiting to help you.

    Forgot Your Password?

    • If you forgot your password, don’t worry! Here is a step-by-step blog on how to recover your password and continuing using your ExpressTruckTax account.

    How to Create an Account

    • If you’re a new user, this is the guide for you! We go over how to create an account with ExpressTruckTax step-by-step so you can begin e-filing and get back to your life.

    FastTransfer Feature

    • The FastTransfer feature helps you save time by allowing you to copy your previous return for your current tax year. This guide explains how to utilize the feature in order to e-file.

    Truck Zone

    • Truck Zone is your very own virtual garage. Store all of your trucks securely on our servers, and never forget a vehicle. This guide explains how this feature benefits you and how to use it.

    7 Common E-filing Mistakes to Avoid

    • Everybody makes mistakes, but with this guide we’re hoping to minimize several common occurrences. Learn what to avoid and how to successfully e-file for the HVUT tax season.

    6 Tips For Success this Renewal Season

    • Have a successful renewal season with these 6 easy tips on how to e-file!

    The Do’s and Don’ts of E-filing Your 2290

    • Tips on how to make e-filing even easier by being prepared throughout the tax year.

    If you need any help along the way, just ask our dedicated support legends! You can give them a call at 704.234.6005 during our new extended business hours from 8AM to 8PM EST, or you can shoot them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish.

    E-file today, avoid late penalties, and get back to your life!

    7 Ways to Avoid an IFTA Audit

    Posted on July 30, 2015 by - Expresstrucktax.com, IFTA, Truck Tax

    Audits for anything are scary, especially IFTA audits. The idea that you have to go through mounds of paperwork, and eventually panic if you can’t find exactly what you need, is terrifying. But relax, here at ExpressTruckTax, we’re all about making this process loads easier.

    That’s why we’ve got 7 tips on what to do to in order to avoid an IFTA audit.

    How to Avoid an IFTA Audit

    Trip Sheets

    The first step in avoiding an IFTA audit is to keep detailed trip sheets. You need to make certain your trip sheets have continuity from the very beginning of your trip to the end. Every single jurisdiction should be included on your trip sheet, so you don’t lose track of any important information.

    Avoid submitting trip sheets with non-continuous jurisdictions. Trust us, IFTA auditors know that your truck cannot simply materialize in Florida when you started in Colorado.

    Mileage

    Mileage is another big one when it comes to avoiding IFTA audits. You should be recording all mileage on your trip sheets as well as personal and non-taxable mileage.

    Avoid forgetting to record your end-of-day miles to any restaurants or lodging. If you don’t record these miles, then you risk creating a gap in mileage, that’s when your end of day location doesn’t match your beginning of day location.

    Be Exact

    Everything you record needs to be exact. You need to record exact fuel use and exact mileage (even non-taxable mileage). Because eventually, you will use those numbers to calculate your MPG each quarter. And one small slip up could resist in a massive oops.

    And you definitely want to avoid calculating your fuel use by dividing your mileage by the set MPG. Since your MPG is based on road conditions, you need to keep an eye on it. Because it will fluctuate. So make sure you’re recording that number correctly, or you risk paying too much for your IFTA.

    Watch your MPG

    As we previously stated, your MPG is based on a variety of road conditions. That means this number can fluctuate from quarter to quarter. So make sure you’re faithfully recording that number, because in the end, you’ll have better records for it. And better records means you’re on the right path to avoiding an audit!

    Your MPG should be above 5 and below 10. If you find that your MPG is outside of this range, then it’s likely you’ve made an error in recordkeeping somewhere along the way. In most States, your IFTA will not be accepted unless your MPG falls within 5-10 MPG.

    Document Everything

    If you learn one thing from us, it’s that you need to document everything. That means, if you keep precise trip sheets you can avoid any errors in recordkeeping, as well as an audit. So make sure you don’t get lazy with your documentation!

    File on-time!

    Make sure you file your IFTA on-time, year-after-year. This shows that you’re being responsible, and know what needs to be done. If you need some help with this process, ExpressIFTA can definitely make calculating your mileage and what you owe in fuel taxes a lot easier than doing it on paper.

    That way, you don’t have to wait until the last minute to file, dreading the idea of all that tax math. Not to mention, waiting to file instead of doing it earlier can lead to you making mistakes. And this will, of course, lead to an audit. So make sure you give yourself plenty of time to sit down and do your IFTA right!

    Cooperate

    Audits may seem scary, but they’re not the end of the world. If you’re selected for an audit, just remain calm and cooperate. Original documentation for the past 12 quarters should be kept in your base jurisdiction for the auditor to access.

    Make sure you don’t avoid the auditor’s phone calls, shred your documents, or do anything drastic. Especially considering that IFTA auditors can keep coming after you with no statute of limitations. And the less you cooperate, the worse the penalties will be. You could even lose your IFTA license.

    If you have any questions or need any help preparing your quarterly IFTA, our dedicated support legends are here for you. Just give them a call during our new extended business hours from 8AM to 8PM at 704.234.6005 or shoot them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish.

    Don’t wait and risk making a mistake, file your IFTA today.

    Get Ready for July 31st With ExpressIFTA

    Posted on July 27, 2015 by - Expresstrucktax.com, Form 2290, HVUT, IFTA, Taxable gross vehicle weight, Truck Tax

    If you haven’t already filed for your IFTA this quarter, the deadline is only two days away! That means, if you own or operate a heavy vehicle, you should already have your returns postmarked by today, but if you don’t, ExpressTruckTax has your back.

    Here at ExpressTruckTax, we’re about so much more than e-filing your 2290. We also offer a service that helps you when it comes to filing for IFTA.

    ExpressIFTA is the fastest and most convenient way to prepare your International Fuel Tax Agreement quarterly return. It’s so simple you don’t even have to break out your calculator, because ExpressIFTA can calculate what you owe!

    All you have to do is follow three simple steps. So get your trip sheets ready, and prepare to be amazed.

    Step 1: Account Creation

    • Login or create your free account
      • Pro-tip #1: If you’ve already signed up for ExpressTrcukTax, you can use that same account to login to ExpressIFTA.
    • Enter your business details and base jurisdiction

    Step 2: Vehicle Information

    • Enter your vehicle information
    • Including your VIN and Gross Vehicle Weight
    • Then you can click “Save,” or if you have more than one vehicle you need to file for, you can click “Save and Add Another.”

    Step 3: Fuel Records

    • Use your trip sheets to enter your distance and fuel records
      • Pro-tip#2: If you have a GPS, you can upload those records and save even more time.

    Now all that’s left to do is print out your State-Specific IFTA and mail it in. You don’t even have to do any of those pesky calculations because ExpressIFTA does all that for you.

    If you need any help with preparing your IFTA, just give our dedicated support legends a call! You can reach them by phone during our new extended business hours Monday-Friday from 8AM – 8PM EST at 704.234.6005. You can also reach them by e-mail at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support.

    Happy filing, Trucking Nation!