68,000 lb Truck Tax in Arkansas
Understanding Form 2290 Tax for a 68,000 lb Truck in Arkansas
As a trucking professional operating a vehicle with a gross taxable weight of 68,000 pounds in Arkansas, you are likely responsible for filing Form 2290, Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Return. This federal tax is levied annually by the IRS on vehicles operating on public highways with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more. While the tax itself is federal, your operations in Arkansas necessitate understanding how it applies specifically to your situation.
Taxable Gross Weight Defined: It's crucial to accurately determine your vehicle's taxable gross weight. This isn't simply the unladen weight. It encompasses the sum of:
- The actual unloaded weight of the vehicle.
- The actual unloaded weight of any trailers customarily used in combination with the vehicle.
- The weight of the maximum load customarily carried on the vehicle and any trailers.
Since your truck weighs 68,000 lbs, it falls squarely within the taxable weight category and is subject to the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT).
Calculating Your 2290 Tax Liability
The IRS provides a tax rate schedule for Form 2290. For vehicles with a taxable gross weight between 55,000 and 75,000 pounds, the tax rate is a base amount plus an additional amount for each 1,000 pounds (or fraction thereof) over 55,000 pounds. As of the latest IRS guidelines, the rate is $100, plus $22.00 for each 1,000 pounds or fraction thereof, over 55,000 pounds.
Therefore, for a 68,000 lb truck:
- Calculate the weight exceeding 55,000 lbs: 68,000 - 55,000 = 13,000 lbs.
- Determine the number of 1,000 lb increments: 13,000 / 1,000 = 13
- Calculate the additional tax: 13 x $22.00 = $286
- Calculate the total tax: $100 (base) + $286 = $386
Your Form 2290 tax liability for a 68,000 lb truck in Arkansas is $386.
Filing Deadlines and Methods
The filing period for Form 2290 typically runs from July 1st to June 30th. The deadline to file and pay the HVUT is generally August 31st. If you begin operating your truck after July, you must file Form 2290 by the end of the month following the month in which you first used the vehicle on public highways. For instance, if you start using the truck in Arkansas in September, your filing deadline is October 31st.
You can file Form 2290 either:
- Electronically (e-file): This is the preferred method and is required for those filing 25 or more returns. E-filing offers faster processing and confirmation.
- By Mail: You can download Form 2290 from the IRS website, complete it, and mail it to the address specified in the instructions.
Required Information for Filing
To complete Form 2290 accurately, you will need:
- Your Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each truck.
- The taxable gross weight of each truck.
- Your business name and address.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to file Form 2290 on time or failing to pay the HVUT can result in penalties. These penalties can include interest charges and late filing/payment penalties. Ensuring timely and accurate filing is crucial to avoid these issues.
4 Simple Steps to File
Gather Vehicle Info
Have your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and Gross Taxable Weight ready. You can find the VIN on your registration or dashboard.
Choose Tax Period
Select the current tax year (July 1 - June 30). If filing late, our system automatically calculates prorated taxes for you.
E-File with IRS
Submit your return securely. We check for common errors before sending to the IRS to prevent rejections.
Get Schedule 1
Receive your IRS-stamped Schedule 1 proof of payment via email instantly once accepted. No waiting for mail.
HVUT Tax Rate Reference (2025-2026)
| Gross Weight | Annual Tax |
|---|---|
| 55,000 lbs | $100.00 |
| 56,000 lbs | $122.00 |
| 60,000 lbs | $210.00 |
| 70,000 lbs | $430.00 |
| 75,000 lbs | $550.00 (Max) |
| 80,000 lbs | $550.00 |
| Logging Vehicles | Reduced Rate (See Calculator) |