74,000 lb Truck Tax in Arizona

Understanding Form 2290 for Heavy Trucks in Arizona

As an owner or operator of a heavy truck with a gross vehicle weight of 74,000 lbs in Arizona, you are likely subject to the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) and must file Form 2290 with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the HVUT and how it applies to your specific situation.

The Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) is an annual federal tax assessed on heavy highway vehicles operating on public roads with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more. The tax is used to fund highway maintenance and infrastructure projects across the United States. The IRS mandates that you file Form 2290 and pay the HVUT annually, typically by August 31st for the period beginning July 1st of that year.

Calculating Your HVUT for a 74,000 lb Truck

For vehicles weighing 55,000 pounds or more, the HVUT is calculated based on a base amount plus an incremental charge for each 1,000 pounds (or fraction thereof) exceeding 55,000 pounds. The current HVUT rate (as of 2024, and subject to change by the IRS) is $100 per year, plus $22.00 for each 1,000 pounds (or fraction thereof) over 55,000 pounds.

Let's break down the calculation for your 74,000 lb truck:

• Taxable Gross Weight: 74,000 lbs
• Weight Exceeding 55,000 lbs: 74,000 - 55,000 = 19,000 lbs
• Number of 1,000 lb Increments: 19,000 / 1,000 = 19
• Tax per 1,000 lb Increments: 19 * $22.00 = $418.00
• Total HVUT Due: $100 (base) + $418.00 = $518.00

Therefore, the HVUT due for your 74,000 lb truck in Arizona is $518.00. Keep in mind this amount can change based on revisions to federal tax law.

Filing Form 2290: Deadlines and Requirements

The filing deadline for Form 2290 is typically August 31st for the tax period beginning July 1st and ending June 30th of the following year. If you place a new taxable vehicle in 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 start using a vehicle in September, you must file by the end of October.

You can file Form 2290 electronically (e-file) through an IRS-approved provider, which is the recommended method for faster processing and confirmation. Alternatively, you can file a paper return by mail. When filing, you will need the following information:

• Employer Identification Number (EIN): You must have an EIN to file Form 2290.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each vehicle.
• Taxable Gross Weight of each vehicle.
• Your business name and address.

Upon successful filing and payment, you will receive a stamped Schedule 1, which serves as proof of payment. You must keep a copy of Schedule 1 in your vehicle as evidence of HVUT payment, as it may be requested during inspections or registration renewals. Arizona, like all states, requires proof of HVUT payment for registration.

Exemptions and Suspensions

Certain vehicles may be exempt from HVUT. These exemptions typically include vehicles used for specific purposes, such as:

• Vehicles owned by the federal government.
• Vehicles used for certain agricultural purposes (subject to specific mileage limitations).
• Qualified blood collector vehicles.
• Certain logging vehicles.

Additionally, if your vehicle is expected to be used for 5,000 miles or less (7,500 for agricultural vehicles), you may be eligible for a suspension of the HVUT. You still need to file Form 2290, but you won't owe any tax. If you exceed the mileage limit during the tax year, the tax becomes due.