The Deadline for the Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax is Almost Here!

Don't forget: If you haven't already filed your 2290 (Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax), you only have until August 31st to file without paying any penalties.

Who Needs to File?

Any business operating a commercial vehicle weighing 55,000 lbs or more. Gross weight is the total weight of:

• The unloaded weight of the fully-equipped vehicle
• The unloaded weight of any trailers used with the vehicle
• The weight of the maximum load on the vehicle and any trailers

When Is the Tax Due?

The deadline to pay the HVUT is August 31st. The tax is pre-paid for the coming year, with the tax year running from July 1st to June 30th.

What Is the Cost?

The cost of the tax depends on the gross weight of the vehicle. The prices are as follows:

• 55,000 to 75,000 lbs - $100, plus $22 per 1,000 lbs over 55,000 lbs
• Over 75,000 lbs - $550 per year

For example, a vehicle with a gross weight of 60,000 lbs would cost $210 per year, and a vehicle with a gross weight of 80,000 lbs would cost $550 per year.

How Is the Tax Paid?

To pay the tax, you must file Form 2290 from the IRS. You need to submit the form and any taxes that you owe, and you will receive a "stamped" Schedule 1. You can file the form online, which results in a document that is marked with a digital watermark, and which you can use as proof of payment should you need to show it to the DOT, DMV or various other authorities. However, keep in mind that the IRS does not directly accept online payments. You need to go through a third party if you want to pay your tax online.

Should I Carry Proof of Tax?

Carrying your stamped or watermarked Schedule 1 is smart, especially if you cross international borders. You will need to show this document to border control before being allowed back into the country.

Consequences of Not Paying

If you don't pay the tax and have the proof that you have done so, you won't be able to renew your tags with the DMV or renew your registration for IFTA, IRP, or UCR. You will be operating your vehicle illegally if you are required to pay the tax and don't do it.

Consequences for Late Filing

If you don't file the form or you do it after the deadline, you will have to pay a penalty of 4.5% of the amount that you owe. This penalty will increase each month for up to five months if you continue not to pay. You will also pay a monthly fee of 0.5% if you fail to pay by the deadline, and there is an interest charge at 0.54%. Compared to the cost of simply paying on time, you could end up paying a lot more than you need to.

How to File Electronically

You can file Form 2290 online and quickly receive your stamped Schedule 1 by email. Logistec/TTS can help you file online, as an e-file provider authorized by the IRS.

Get in Touch

For more help with filing Form 2290 and paying your Heavy Highway Vehicle Use tax, get in touch with Logistec/TTS by calling 800.226.3696 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.