Know Your Filing Window

If you are a truck owner or operator with a car that weighs more than 55, 000 pounds, the law states that you must file IRS Form 2290 on time each year. The filing season for the HVUT (Heavy Vehicle Use Tax) begins every year on July 1 and continues through August 31 for vehicles used for the tax period beginning July 1 and ending June 30 the following year. 

You can be fined and charged interest as well as have trouble with renewing your vehicle registration if you don't file your form on time. Mark your calendar early and prepare your paperwork in advance if you want to avoid waiting until the last minute.

First Used Month (FUM) Filing Rule

You can’t have all vehicles be on the calendar from July through August. So if you start using your car or truck in any month other than July, then you’ll need to file Form 2290 by the last day of the month following your first month of use. Like your truck starts using in October and you file on November 30: It’s important to note when you started using your truck because that will determine your personalized due date.

Grace Periods and Extensions

But, while the IRS won’t typically extend Form 2290, there is a limited grace period for people who file because of an otherwise unavoidable delay, such as due to natural disasters. Interest and penalties will still apply unless you can prove that something went wrong. Make sure you file as soon as possible and use an e-filing service authorized by the IRS to make sure it’s done quickly and there’s nothing wrong with your forms.

Stay Ahead with a Filing Checklist

With a filing checklist and reminders. You should document your Employer Identification Number (EIN), Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and the taxable gross weight of your vehicle. It helps you prevent penalties during the year from missed payments, and it also ensures you get the stamped Schedule 1—your proof of payment that the DMV needs.

 Set reminders. That way you’ll file securely and on time at the end of the year.