Estimated Tax
$496.00
As a tow truck operator with a vehicle weighing 73,000 lbs, you're likely required to file Form 2290, the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT), with the IRS. This guide is specifically tailored for tow truck owners like you to understand the nuances of Form 2290 and ensure compliance.
The Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) is an annual tax levied on heavy vehicles operating on public highways with a gross taxable weight of 55,000 pounds or more. The tax is used to fund highway construction and maintenance projects.
Important note: Even if your tow truck is exempt from paying the tax due to low mileage (less than 5,000 miles) or other reasons, you still need to file Form 2290 and claim the suspension.
Expert Compliance Tips
- Determine your Gross Taxable Weight: The Gross Taxable Weight includes the unloaded weight of the tow truck, plus the heaviest weight of any trailer or semi-trailer customarily used in combination with the vehicle, plus the weight of the maximum load customarily carried on the vehicle and such trailers. For a 73,000 lb tow truck, this is the key figure for calculating your tax.
- Filing Deadline: The filing deadline for Form 2290 is August 31st each year, covering the period from July 1st to June 30th. If you put the tow truck into service after July, you must file Form 2290 by the end of the month following the month the vehicle was first used on public highways. For example, if you first used the truck on August 15th, you would need to file by September 30th.
- Payment Options: You can pay your HVUT liability through various methods including: Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW), Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), check, money order, or credit/debit card (through a third-party provider). EFTPS is the IRS's preferred method of payment.
- Keep Accurate Records: Maintain detailed records of your tow truck's weight, mileage, and any supporting documentation used to determine your HVUT liability. This is essential for audits.
- Schedule 1: Upon successful filing and payment of Form 2290, you will receive a stamped Schedule 1, which serves as proof of payment. Keep this document in your vehicle, as it may be required for registration and inspections. You can typically download it electronically after e-filing.
- E-file vs. Paper File: E-filing is mandatory if you are filing for 25 or more vehicles. However, even if you have fewer vehicles, e-filing is generally faster, more convenient, and reduces the risk of errors. Several IRS-approved e-file providers are available.
- Suspension of Tax: If you expect your tow truck to travel less than 5,000 miles during the tax year, you may be eligible for a suspension of the HVUT. However, you are still required to file Form 2290 and claim the suspension.
- Partial Period Returns: If you start using your tow truck mid-year, you'll file a partial-period return, and the tax will be prorated based on the number of months the vehicle was in service.
- Seek Professional Advice: If you are unsure about any aspect of Form 2290 or HVUT, consult with a qualified tax professional specializing in trucking taxes. They can help you ensure compliance and potentially identify tax-saving opportunities.
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) |