Tag: expresstrucktax

Get A Sweet Deal With HVUT 2290 When You File Now And Pay Later

Posted on May 11, 2021 by - 2021 Form 2290

Did you know there’s a better way to file your Form 2290 for 2021-2022 Tax Period?

The 2021-22 Form 2290 season kicks off July 1st, but truckers who use ExpressTruckTax can now begin e-filing Form 2290 as early as Friday, May 14, 2021!

Many truckers wait until the last minute to e-file, often causing them to miss the Form 2290 due date. Missing the 2290 due date can lead to a hefty Form 2290 penalty on top of your HVUT 2290 annual fee.

The HVUT 2290 annual fee is calculated by adding:

  • The actual unloaded vehicle weight, fully equipped for service.
  • The unloaded weight of the semi-trailer or trailers, fully equipped in combination with the commercial vehicle.
  • The maximum load weight usually carried on the vehicle, and any semi-trailer(s) used.

What is Form 2290 Filing Like with ExpressTruckTax?

ExpressTruckTax customers can complete their 2290 Form 2021-22 before the start of the regular season. ExpressTruckTax gives customers the chance to file now and pay later.

A huge benefit of this is learning how much is owed in taxes and being able to save up until the HVUT 2290 due date, August 31, 2021! All you have to do to file now and pay later is choose our Pre-File option and pay your HVUT amount by check, money order, or EFTPS.

After completing the Form 2290 process online, customers have the opportunity to opt-in and receive HVUT 2290 due date reminders via email, text, and fax.

Benefits of Filing Your 2021-22 HVUT Form 2290 Now

When you file early, you are being proactive in making sure you are in the front of the line to receive your Stamped Schedule 1! We will transmit all returns filed early to the IRS as soon as they start processing returns on July 1. That means you’ll get your Schedule 1 as soon as possible.
You will also be able to make you HVUT payment any time before August 31, giving you time to save up your funds.
Additionally, by beating the busy season, our US-based customer support team will be able to answer all of your questions instantly! That means no lines and no wait time.

Announcing A New Two Truck Filing Package! Only $19.90!

Posted on May 10, 2021 by - E-filing Form 2290

We have an exciting announcement to make!

In our continued effort to serve American truckers with the best solutions at the best prices, we are proud to announce a new two truck filing package for ExpressTruckTax users!

Two Trucks For Only $19.90

This new package makes filing a Form 2290 for two trucks even more affordable. Now small father-and-son-type operations can file for two trucks for just $19.90.

We’re excited to be able to save small trucking companies even more! And of course, like all our filing packages, this package includes all the great features and services you have come to expect from us. 

For just $19.90, users will receive an instant error check, our ExpressGuarantee, live Customer Support, and much more.

File Your Form 2290 for Two Trucks Today!

So what are you waiting for? Go file your Form 2290 for two trucks right now!

What You Need To Know About CVSA Roadcheck 2021

Posted on April 5, 2021 by - CVSA inspection blitz

Every year, the CVSA dedicates 36 hours to an inspection blitz of commercial motor vehicles. In 2020, that CVSA roadcheck was delayed until September and was performed at a lower capacity than is typical. In 2021 however, the CVSA is back with its typical May 4-6 road inspection blitz.

Each year, in addition to performing comprehensive Type I (37 point inspections) the CVSA chooses additional areas of particular focus. Here’s what you need to know about the CVSA roadcheck 2021 taking place May 4-6, 2021.

Road Inspection 2021

This year the CVSA says they will primarily focus on curbing lighting and hours of service (HOS) violations during the roadcheck week. With the recent advent of ELDs and a year of decreased enforcement due to the pandemic, this move makes sense. But what about the focus on lighting violations? Well, according to Freightwaves, vehicles with “lamps inoperable” violations made up 12% of offenders.

How to Prepare for Roadcheck 2021

Even though lighting and HOS are the primary focus of the 2021 CVSA roadcheck, it is vital to prepare for comprehensive inspections. 

This roadcheck preparation process should start with a registration checkup. Make sure you have all your forms and registration up to date and the paperwork in your cab with you. This could include but is not limited to: IRP, IFTA, Form 2290, DOT#, MC#, BOC-3, UCR#, and more. Additionally, you should probably have any supporting documents. 

Next, you should start checking your ELDs and/or logs. Make sure you know how to quickly present this information and that your unit has been accurately tracking data.

Finally, you should start making sure every part of your vehicle meets compliance regulations. Here’s a list of everything the CVSA inspector will be checking. Another great tip from Freightwaves is to make sure you have spare light bulbs and fuses in case your lights have issues. 

File Form 2290 before Roadcheck 2021

If you need a current Form 2290 for your records before the upcoming CVSA roadcheck inspection blitz, click the link below!

ExpressTruckTax.com provides the quickest and easiest solution for Form 2290 filings!

The Most Common IRS Form 2290 Mistakes to Avoid

Posted on March 16, 2021 by - Form 2290

 

There’s nothing worse than having to file your annual truck taxes twice. 

Avoid IRS Form 2290 mistakes this year when you e-file 2290 with ExpressTruckTax.

We’ve got a few tips to make the process as painless as possible and save you from any unnecessary corrections.

Filing IRS Form 2290 before the deadline will save you tons of money, but mistakes could keep you from meeting the Form 2290 due date and cost you a sweet penny.

Avoid frustration and confusion by double-checking some information that commonly delays IRS Form 2290 approval.

The Most Common IRS Form 2290 Mistakes to Avoid

5 Common IRS Form 2290 Mistakes

 Here are some things to be extra cautious about when filing your 2290 Form.

How to Check These Areas For Error

  • 1) EIN (Employer Identification Number) or VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

A unique EIN is assigned to each company operating in the US as a form of identification for tax purposes. Your EIN should be a string of 9 numbers, presented in this format: 12-3456789.

Since this number looks similar to a social security number, filers often confuse the two, causing the IRS to reject the 2290 Tax Form.

Keep in mind that it takes 10 business days for the IRS to update its database with a new EIN. If you’re applying for a new EIN, do so at least a month before you e-file IRS 2290 to avoid delays.

Your VIN should be 17 characters long and include both numbers and letters. Check your VIN before submitting your 2290 Tax Form. If incorrect, your IRS Form 2290 will be rejected.

The best online tax filing is quick. Don’t waste unnecessary time with mistakes. When you e-file 2290, double-check your Form 2290 and ensure that your EIN and VIN are correct.

  • 2) First Used Month or Filing Year

When filing IRS Form 2290, make sure you use the correct filing year.

Note: If you’ve used an online filing service before, the drop-down menu could be set to a previous 2290 Tax Form file year. Double-check!

Secondly, choose an accurate first used month.

The first used month is the month you first used the truck on the highway during the tax period, which runs from July 1 to June 30 of the next year. Your Truck Tax form is due on the last day of the month after your first used month.

This means if you first used your vehicle in July, as most drivers do during the tax season, then you will need to file your IRS 2290 Tax Form by August 31.

  • 3) Gross Taxable Weight

IRS Form 2290 tax calculations can be tricky, but don’t sweat it. At ExpressTruckTax, our system automatically calculates your owed tax amount. Leave all 2290 tax form math to us.

It’s important to find the best online tax filing service to save yourself time and money. ExpressTruckTax can help!

  • 4) Authorized Signatory Details

It’s super easy to sign your IRS 2290 online. All you need is a 5-digit authorized signature code. Still, no matter how simple it sounds, please just… double-check. 

  • 5) Business Name & Address

You’d be surprised at how many returns are rejected for this information being incorrect!

The wrong business name and address is the most common error on the heavy vehicle use tax form 2290. Don’t let it happen to you!

Double-check your business name and address before submitting your IRS Form 2290.

Why is it so Important to Avoid IRS 2290 Mistakes?

Even the simplest mistake on your IRS Form 2290 can cause serious problems. For starters, your 2290 Tax Form will definitely be rejected by the IRS.

This is a huge time waster and may cause you to miss the HVUT 2290 Tax Form Deadline.

If this happens and you miss the deadline, you’ll need to correct your Form 2290 and file again, attaching an explanation to show reasonable cause for the delay of your heavy vehicle use tax.

There’s no guaranteeing that your statement will be accepted by the IRS, and if it’s not, you’ll face heavy IRS 2290 Tax Form penalties.

The penalty for failing to file IRS Form 2290 by August 31st is 4.5% of the total tax amount owed. Plus, you still have to pay the base HVUT 2290 amount you owe.

In addition, this penalty will increase monthly for up to 5 months, with an additional .54% interest added for each month that it remains unpaid.

Save yourself while you can and double-check your Form 2290 before you e-file 2290 online.

The Best Online Tax Filing Service to Use

ExpressTruckTax makes filing easy. When it comes down to it, we simply don’t believe that filing IRS Form 2290 should be so difficult.

We include an instant error check to help catch any mistakes hidden in your 2290 Tax Form. We also have a US-based customer support team ready to help you every step of the way.

With features like bulk upload, free VIN corrections, and a mobile app, we’re committed to hosting your best filing experience yet.

Sign up for a free account today and you’ll agree that ExpressTruckTax is the best online tax filing option for Form 2290.

These Newly Colorized Vintage Trucking Photos Look Like They Were Taken Yesterday

Posted on February 23, 2021 by - trucking history

While trucking has always been a way to transport goods, the industry has changed a lot in it’s roughly 100 year history. 

In the last 10 years alone, we’ve seen the rise of ALOGs, then ELDs, and now it seems electric and self-driving trucks might be just over the horizon. So we wanted to look back through the history of trucking and get a glimpse of how the industry got started and what it used to be like. 

To make these images feel even more real, we utilized a computer program to colorize these old semi truck photos. We know you’ll love this trip through the history of the trucking industry.

1. A driver for a construction company, 1918.

2. A fleet of trucks owned by R. Crealy, 1920.

3. Swift Ice Cream Company (no not that Swift), 1955.

4. Loading a truck at the Associated Transport Company, New York City, 1943.

5. Associated Transport Company, New York City, 1943.

6. Checking a trailer at Davidson Transfer Company in Baltimore, Maryland, 1943.

7. Associated Transport Company New York city, 1943(?).

8. Associated Transport Company yard jockey moving truck in Baltimore, Maryland, 1943.

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How ExpressTruckTax Helped Truckers in 2020

Posted on February 2, 2021 by - ExpressTruckTax benefits

2020 was a wild year, but through it all the American trucker led the way in hauling our goods and keeping our shelves stocked. We want to thank you and let you know that we were working for you every step of the way. Here are just a few of the ways that ExpressTruckTax helped to support American truckers during 2020.

Trademark

Out of the over 31 million businesses in America, only around 800,000 have a trademark. This legal designation helps American businesses identify their products and services and distinguish them from those of their competitors. We are excited to go into 2021 having officially secured the trademark for ExpressTruckTax!

Over the past ten years, we have had the good fortune to develop a distinctive history and reputation with our loyal following of American truckers. As such, we have become the market-leading Form 2290 e-filing solution. As we continue to add more features and tools, we would like our new and returning clients to be assured that they are getting the best quality software on the market at an affordable price.

Thankfully, our approved trademark for “ExpressTruckTax” will help us eliminate dishonest copycats who have been intentionally misleading American truckers by misrepresenting our brand. You can rest assured that we will always defend ourselves against infringements past and present. Thank you for your trust, and we will continue to fight to provide top quality service at an affordable price.

Prefiling

In 2020, truckers helped America and we wanted to give them a chance to beat the Form 2290 crowds of August and September by filing ahead of time. Prefiling also means that ExpressTruckTax clients have their forms processed first by the IRS, so they get their stamped Schedule 1 back fast.

So to help more truckers have peace of mind about their Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes (HVUT), we opened up prefiling earlier than ever. Starting in May of 2020, truckers could pre-file their 2020-21 Form 2290 and ExpressTruckTax sent them to the IRS as soon as they began processing 2290s on July 1.

We look forward to providing e-filing services early again this year. Be on the lookout this spring!

ExpressGuarantee

In a further effort to give back to truckers in 2020, we put in place our new ExpressGuarantee. This new feature guarantees that Form 2290s filed through our system will be accepted by the IRS and clients will receive their stamped Schedule 1 or their money back.

Our US-based customer support team will also do everything they can (for free) to resolve IRS rejections. If they still cannot get your 2290 accepted, we will refund your service fee, no questions asked. Now there’s no reason not to file with us!

ExpressStats

During peak 2290 season, in July and August of 2020, we published some of our most interesting statistics about truckers. While no personal information whatsoever was disclosed, the stats represented a snapshot of data among our thousands of clients. This information included most popular truck brands, cities and states with the largest number of HVUT e-filers, and much more. 

Check out ExpressStats now!

File your 2290 today

If you need to file your Form 2290, be sure to take advantage of our ExpressGuarantee and get your stamped Schedule 1 back quickly!

Pricing starts at just $9.90 for a single truck.

How To Find The Perfect Fit To All Your CDL Training Needs

Posted on January 20, 2021 by - CDL training

You’ve made the decision to be a trucker, now you’re saying ‘what’s next?’ The next step after you’ve decided to venture into this career is choosing where to get your CDL. Just like any major, life-changing decisions there are many factors that go into choosing what CDL school works best for you. Things to consider would be financial responsibility, duration, and community. We are breaking down differences, similarities and important factors to help you make the right first step for your new career.

Financial Responsibility

Paid

Paid CDL training is also known as company-sponsored training. This is when a company pays the upfront cost of your training. Normally companies will cover both your transportation to the training facility and hotel accommodations while in training. In some cases there are companies who pay for the cost of meals and even loan you money to pay your bills while you are taking their course.
In return for the paid training the company sponsoring you will require you to drive for them for an agreed upon period of time, or until your tuition is paid off. Not every paid CDL training is identical, so it is important to do extensive research.

Private

Private CDL trainings are with independently owned truck driving schools. Typically there is a requirement to pay tuition upfront. This structure is ideal for those with families who wish to be closer, as they will commute back and forth. Being that this more of a risk than company-sponsored training, prospective students will want to get as many pre-hire letters as possible and ensure that the companies they’re interested in hire from the chosen institution.

Tip: If choosing either option you are looking at “paying back” or paying upfront $4,000 to $10,000. We suggest you go with the best value, not just the lowest price.

Duration

The amount of time you’ll have to dedicate to your CDL isn’t a matter of paid versus private. The duration is contingent on your choice of license class, desired endorsements, whether you’re a full-time or part-time student, and class and driving hours.

The requirements of each state are also different, so we’ll take the word of most CDL instructors who say your training will take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks.

Community

Obtaining your CDL in the best environment for your learning habits is vital to how well you succeed. Knowing the student to instructor ratio is also important. If you are the kind of person who thrives on 1-on-1 interaction, choosing a school with a 40-to-1 ratio isn’t going to cut it. This is your career, so your success in the field is based on your success in the classroom.
For students going the company-sponsored route, the community makes all the difference. How a company trains its prospective employees is a reflection on how they treat their actual employees, so be super aware of this.

No Need To Wait, The IRS is Processing Form 2290s Again

Posted on January 18, 2021 by - Form 2290

The IRS typically stops processing Form 2290s for a short period of time every year. This year from late December to early January, the IRS briefly put a hold on Form 2290s. 

But now the IRS is back! If you e-file your Form 2290 today, it will most likely be processed today! Be sure to go e-file with us if you haven’t already!

January Form 2290 Deadline

When did you first use your heavy vehicle on public highways during the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) period? Because if it was in December, then your Form 2290 is due by January 31, and that’s only a little over a week away.

If you need to file, luckily you have ExpressTruckTax to help you complete your form in a matter of minutes online. However, we go beyond e-filing. We’re also here to share important Form 2290 information so you will always know exactly when you’ll need to file. Check out these HVUT deadline tips.

Was December Your First Used Month? Then File Your 2290 

You file 2290 online based on the month that you first use your heavy vehicle on public highways during the tax period. This is so you won’t pay for the months that your truck wasn’t on the road.

The HVUT period runs from July 1 to June 30 of the following year and you have to file by the last day of the month following your first used month. That means if you first used your truck in December then you need to file by January 31 or you will have penalties to face.

Because most people first use their trucks in July, when the HVUT period begins, August 31 is a major deadline day. Filing your Form 2290 is incredibly important because the taxes collected are used to repair, maintained, and build public roads.

As a result of filing, you will get a copy of your stamped Schedule 1, which serves as proof of filing and paying your HUVT tax. This form is actually needed to renew your tags and to complete your IRP return.

HVUT Penalties

If you fail to file by the deadline you will have expensive penalties to face. For example, for failing to file by the due date you will face a penalty of 4.5% of the total tax due. This amount will accrue on a monthly basis for up to five months.

Plus, if your HVUT payment is late or doesn’t fully cover the amount you owe you will face an additional penalty of 0.5% of the total amount due. Also, there is an additional penalty of .54% as well.

But worst of all, if you don’t file you won’t have a copy of your stamped Schedule 1, which is required by the DMV so you can keep legally operating. Don’t get parked, file by the deadline with ExpressTruckTax.

E-Filing With ExpressTruckTax

We have streamlined the e-filing system to make it incredibly quick and easy. You don’t have to download anything or head to the IRS office. Simply create your free account and follow the step-by-step instructions to instantly complete your form and transmit it directly to the IRS.

Our instructions explain what information is required to complete your form and where it needs to be entered. Plus, our internal audit check will scan your 2290 form to catch any basic errors before it’s sent to the IRS.

As a result of filing with us, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 in about 15 minutes via email.

Best of all, our live, US-based support team is ready to help. If you have any questions call us at 704.234.6005 Monday – Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM EST. We also offer live chat and 24/7 email support at support@ExpressTruckTax.com.

Trucker Lifestyle: How To Travel With a Pet

Posted on January 12, 2021 by - Trucker Lifestyle

Not all companies allow pets, but luckily, some allow truckers bring their furry friends.

Much like an apartment complex, these trucking companies often require a pet deposit, which can range anywhere from $100-$500. Their policies may also restrict the weight of your pet.

No matter how tempted you are to take your pet on the road, don’t ever just assume that your trucking company or customers are okay with it.

Make sure you know a site’s policy before you arrive.

Military bases, electric plants, and anywhere with hazardous materials and high security will NOT allow you to bring a pet on-site.

Truck drivers who bring pets along say they enjoy having company on the road. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone to keep up with trucking news and listen to trucker radio shows with.

Considering adding a pet to your trucker lifestyle? Here are some things to consider, and a list of the best dogs for truckers.

 

Introducing a Pet to the Trucker Lifestyle

Benefits of Traveling with a Pet

Most truck drivers who bring their pets will tell you that the benefits of trucking with a pet greatly outweigh the disadvantages.

Pets can help truck drivers combat loneliness and overcome negative aspects of the trucking lifestyle.

For instance, bringing a dog forces truck drivers to get out and go for walks, helping maintain wellness on the road and increasing energy and attention while driving.

Dogs may also motivate you to take more breaks, which is especially important for summer trucking.

Plus, animals are more alert to certain situations, and offer a level of protection on the road.
 

How to Travel with a Pet

If you choose to bring a pet, keep current shot/medical records with you in case of an inspection.

Also, consider bringing baby wipes to clean your pet and eliminate smell when you aren’t able to give your pet a bath.

Pack puppy pads for emergencies, pet food, and treats.

Most truckers who bring pets trucking have dogs. The best dogs for truckers are older dogs because they are calmer and able to stay still for longer periods of time. Puppies have too much energy and need to be let out much more often.

If you’re looking for an older dog companion, check out your local Humane Society or animal shelter.

In terms of breed, some of the best dogs for truckers include:

1. Toy Breeds

Toy breeds, like chihuahuas, require little grooming. Plus, they’re so small that truck stops and motels probably won’t care if they’re around.
 

2. Bulldogs

Bulldogs don’t shed much and are also low maintenance. They don’t require much exercise and like to lounge around all day.
 

3. Pitbulls

Pitbulls are great companions. They’re considered one of the best dogs for truckers because they can offer safety and protection. They’re pretty active though, so you’ll have to get outside with them a couple times a day.

Keeping up with Policy

Again, it’s important to know the rules, stay updated with the latest trucking news regarding pets, and understand that each company is different.

While we’re on the topic of staying compliant with trucking policies, let’s talk about staying compliant with the IRS.

Your 4th Quarter IFTA Deadline is Coming Up!

You need to generate and file your 4th quarter IFTA return by January 31! All your fuel and mileage data from October 1 – December 31 need to on that report.

Thankfully, there’s an easy way to enter your information and calculate what you owe with ExpressIFTA!

Their solution is the quickest and most efficient solution. Generate your IFTA report today!

The Healthy Trucker: Wellness On The Road

Posted on January 6, 2021 by - Healthy Trucker

Let’s face it – staying healthy on the road isn’t easy.

Working in the trucking industry is tough and thankless, and it requires long hours with little movement.

As an American trucker, you keep our country moving forward, but you sacrifice many things to do so. Often, this includes your health.

So what does it take to be a healthy trucker? 🤔 Check out these truck driver fitness tips to learn more!

 

The Healthy Trucker: Wellness On The Road

 

Healthy Habits and Truck Driving Tips

Before getting into healthy trucker food and our truck driver workout, let’s talk about general truck driving tips regarding wellness.

In the trucking industry, achieving optimal health isn’t quick. Becoming a healthy trucker takes dedication. Understanding this will help you set attainable goals.

Once goals are set, create and stick to a schedule. Plan stops at places with healthy trucker food options, or in areas that are more walkable.

Consistency is key to truck driver fitness. Exercise every day, even if you only have time for a few push-ups or laps around your truck.

Lastly, sleep. The average American trucker doesn’t get the best sleep, but make the most of it. Stay off your phone at least 30 minutes before bed to help you fall asleep more quickly.

 

Eating on the Road

Snacking isn’t illegal! Starving yourself between meals will only cause you to overeat later.

One healthy trucker snack is pre-cut fruit. Avoid salty snacks, like chips. For meals, consider ditching fried or breaded meats and opting for roasted or baked ones instead.

In the trucking industry, water is your best friend. It’ll keep you alert on the road and prevent you from feeling hungry when you’re not. Also, try green tea. It has natural caffeine! 

Truck Driver Workout

 
One way to stay active is by tracking your steps. Invest in a pedometer and increase your numbers by parking further away.

Don’t forget to stretch! Sitting for long periods of time can cause postural damage and injury.

Create and stick to a workout schedule. Check out the 20-minute truck driver workout to the left for inspiration!

Repeat the entire truck driver workout 3 times if able! Rest and drink water between sets.

Store dumbbells in your truck if you want your truck driver workout to focus on strength.

By following a solid truck driver workout, you’ll become a healthy trucker AND relieve stress. It takes time to settle into a truck driver fitness routine, but it’s worth it!

Maintaining truck driver fitness as an American trucker may not be quick and easy, but do you know what is?

Using ExpressTruckTax to file your taxes!

With easy-to-use ExpressTruckTax software, you’ll finish filing your Form 2290 in no time.

We love sharing truck driving tips to make your life easier. Thanks for being a valued member of the trucking industry!