Procedure For Filing IRS Form 2290

The IRS form 2290 is a Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) that is applicable on vehicles weighing 55,000 pounds and has run 5,000 miles or above (7,500 miles for agricultural vehicles).

The IRS form 2290 can be filed manually and online. But it is advised for an online option as you instantly get the copy of watermarked Schedule 1 which acts as proof of HVUT payment. If filing is done manually, it takes about 6 weeks  to get the copy of schedule 1.

With the help of an IRS authorized form 2290 service provider, the burden will be less as they keep a check on the due date, EIN, documents etc. Also, it is mandatory to apply online if you have 25 or more heavy vehicles. So, make sure to file form 2290 before the due date to avoid IRS penalties. Also, e-filing is prone to errors and mistakes.

It is always advised to keep your tax records maintained including mileage and other related information. Your Social Security Number (SSN) will not work while filing for IRS form 2290. You need an Employee Identification Number (EIN). If you don’t have one, apply for it immediately as it may take a few days to activate.

As a trucker, you need to know about your vehicles like VIN and Gross Vehicle Weight to fill the form 2290 accurately. Sometimes the truckers just guess the Gross Vehicle Weight of their vehicle and end up paying more tax than the actual amount. So, make sure to calculate it properly before filing form 2290.

Following is the step-by-step explanation of the procedure of filing form 2290:

• Collect all the information- Collect all the information and documents before you start filing. You cannot use your social security number against EIN. So, make sure that you apply for EIN soon as it requires 1-2 weeks to activate. You cannot use EIN if it is not activated, and the form will get rejected. Also, calculate the right taxable gross weight and re-check it.
• Choose IRS form 2290 e-file provider– After this, you have to select an IRS authorized form 2290 service provider who will help you to complete all the formalities. In case of IRS rejection, you will receive a notification of the same from your e-file service provider to make corrections and re-file. Some of the common reasons for form 2290 rejections are EIN and business name mismatch, using inactive EIN, incorrect bank details, missing details, mileage error, and wrong payment date. Make sure to review your form 2290 before submitting to avoid these errors.
• Choose payment option– There are a total of three options to pay 2290 online (i.e. Debit or credit cars;  Electronic Fund Withdrawal (EFW); Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) and one option of offline, i.e. Check or money order.  You can pick as per your choice.

Filing your form 2290 can be a confusing process if you do not know the basic details and procedure for filing. We hope the above information will prove to be helpful when filing form 2290 and paying the HVUT return. Also, ensure you file form 2290 on time to steer clear of IRS penalties