59,000 lb Truck Tax in Hawaii

Understanding Form 2290 Heavy Vehicle Use Tax for a 59,000 lb Truck in Hawaii

If you operate a heavy truck with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more on public highways, roads, and streets in Hawaii, you are likely required to file Form 2290 and pay the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This guide specifically addresses the requirements for a truck weighing 59,000 pounds in the state of Hawaii. Note that the HVUT is a federal tax, so the same regulations apply across all states, including Hawaii.

Taxable gross weight isn't just the weight of the empty truck. It includes the unloaded weight of the truck, the unloaded weight of any trailers it tows, and the maximum load it typically carries. For a 59,000 lb truck, it's safe to assume you meet the filing requirements.

HVUT Rates for 59,000 lb Trucks

The HVUT is calculated based on the truck's taxable gross weight. The current rate (as of the last update to my knowledge) for vehicles weighing 55,000 pounds or more is $100 per year, plus an additional $22 for each 1,000 pounds (or fraction thereof) over 55,000 pounds. For a 59,000 lb truck, the calculation is as follows:

• Base tax: $100
• Weight over 55,000 lbs: 59,000 - 55,000 = 4,000 lbs
• Additional tax: (4,000 / 1,000) * $22 = 4 * $22 = $88
• Total HVUT: $100 + $88 = $188

Therefore, the annual HVUT for a 59,000 lb truck is $188.

Filing Form 2290 in Hawaii

You must file Form 2290 for each tax year, which runs from July 1 to June 30. The deadline for filing and paying the HVUT is typically August 31 for vehicles that have been in operation since July 1. If you put a taxable vehicle into service after July, you must file Form 2290 by the last day of the month following the month the vehicle was first used on public highways. For example, if you started using the 59,000 lb truck on September 15th, you would need to file by October 31st.

How to File: You can file Form 2290 either electronically (e-file) or by mail. The IRS strongly encourages electronic filing, especially if you are reporting 25 or more vehicles. E-filing is faster, more accurate, and provides immediate proof of filing (Schedule 1).

E-filing: Several IRS-approved e-file providers exist. These providers guide you through the filing process and transmit your return directly to the IRS. You can find a list of approved providers on the IRS website.

Filing by Mail: If you choose to file by mail, download Form 2290 and Schedule 1 from the IRS website (irs.gov). Complete the forms accurately and mail them to the address listed in the Form 2290 instructions. Be sure to include your payment (check or money order) with your return.

Required Information for Filing

When filing Form 2290, you will need the following information:

• Employer Identification Number (EIN): You must have an EIN to file Form 2290. A Social Security Number (SSN) is not acceptable. If you don't have an EIN, you must apply for one with the IRS.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each truck.
• Taxable gross weight of each truck.
• Your business name and address.

Penalties for Late Filing or Payment

The IRS imposes penalties for failing to file Form 2290 on time or for failing to pay the HVUT by the due date. Penalties can include:

• Failure to file penalty: 5% of the tax due for each month or part of a month that the return is late, up to a maximum of 25% of the tax due.
• Failure to pay penalty: 0.5% of the unpaid tax for each month or part of a month that the tax remains unpaid, up to a maximum of 25% of the unpaid tax.
• Interest on underpayments: The interest rate is determined quarterly and applied to the underpayment amount.

To avoid penalties, file Form 2290 and pay the HVUT on time.