73,000 lb Truck Tax in Pennsylvania
Understanding Form 2290 Taxes for 73,000 lb Trucks in Pennsylvania
If you operate a heavy highway vehicle with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more in Pennsylvania, you are likely subject to the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) and required to file Form 2290 with the IRS. This guide specifically addresses the requirements for a 73,000 lb truck operating in Pennsylvania. Understanding these requirements is crucial to avoid penalties and maintain compliance.
The HVUT is an annual tax levied on heavy vehicles operating on public highways. The taxable gross weight is determined by 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.
For a truck weighing 73,000 lbs, the HVUT applies. The tax rate is based on the taxable gross weight. As of the latest IRS guidelines, the rate is $100 per year plus $22 for each 1,000 pounds (or fraction thereof) over 55,000 pounds.
Calculating Your 2290 Tax Liability
To calculate the HVUT for a 73,000 lb truck:
- Determine the weight exceeding 55,000 lbs: 73,000 lbs - 55,000 lbs = 18,000 lbs.
- Divide the excess weight by 1,000: 18,000 lbs / 1,000 lbs = 18.
- Multiply the result by $22: 18 * $22 = $396.
- Add the base tax of $100: $100 + $396 = $496.
Therefore, the annual HVUT for a 73,000 lb truck in Pennsylvania is $496.
Filing Form 2290
Form 2290 must be filed annually for each heavy vehicle. The filing deadline is typically August 31st for the tax period beginning July 1st and ending June 30th of the following year. If you place a new 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.
You can file Form 2290 electronically (e-file) or by mail. E-filing is generally recommended as it is faster and more efficient. The IRS provides a list of approved e-file providers on their website.
Pennsylvania Specific Considerations
While the HVUT is a federal tax, it's important to understand how Pennsylvania regulations may interact with it. For instance, Pennsylvania's vehicle registration requirements are separate from the HVUT. You must ensure your truck is properly registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in addition to paying your HVUT.
Exemptions and Suspensions
Certain vehicles may be exempt from the HVUT or eligible for a suspension. Common exemptions include:
- Vehicles used exclusively for agricultural purposes and traveling limited distances on public highways.
- Vehicles owned by state or local governments.
- Vehicles with a taxable gross weight of less than 55,000 pounds.
A suspension of the tax may apply if a vehicle is expected to be used for 5,000 miles or less during the tax year (7,500 miles for agricultural vehicles). If you qualify for a suspension, you must still file Form 2290, but you won't owe any tax.
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) |