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Contact: 317-886-7917
Email: trucking@mayflowertax.com
IFTA Filing
Permits & Authorities
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IFTA Filing
Introduction to the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)
IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) is a deal between US states and Canadian provinces that simplifies fuel tax reporting and payment for truckers who drive across state or province lines. If you drive in two or more IFTA areas, you can get one license from your home area to cover fuel taxes everywhere you go. This means you only need to file one tax return every three months to your home jurisdiction, which makes things a lot easier.
You can use IFTA to travel in 48 states and 10 Canadian provinces, but Hawaii, Alaska, D.C., Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon Territory don’t use IFTA. Also, even if you have an IFTA license, New York, Kentucky, New Mexico, and Oregon require their own permits.
The Importance of Registering for IFTA
Registering for IFTA isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly recommended for those who qualify. It simplifies your fuel tax reporting by allowing you to submit one permit for all your operations across states, instead of getting separate permits for each state you drive in.
Qualification Criteria:
- Vehicles with two axles weighing 26,000 pounds or more.
- Combinations where the total weight is 26,000 pounds or more.
- Vehicles with three or more axles.
Note: IFTA registration is not applicable to motor vehicles used solely for personal purposes.
Understanding IFTA Stickers
After getting your IFTA license, you’ll receive stickers for your vehicles. These stickers, which come with a calendar showing when to use them, should be placed on every vehicle in your fleet.
Sticker Placement
For Trucks: Stick one on each side at the back of the vehicle, near the lower corner.
For Buses: Place them on both sides, not further back than the driver’s seat, at eye level.
Not displaying the stickers correctly can lead to heavy fines and even your vehicle being taken and sold.
The stickers are the same for all vehicles for the year, so any sticker can go on any vehicle you have registered under IFTA.
The Importance of Registering for IFTA
- IFTA stickers expire on December 31st every year.
- You need to have the new IFTA license by March 1st annually and display the current year’s sticker on all vehicles.
- If you renew on time and your account is okay, you’ll meet these requirements.
- Last year’s IFTA license and stickers are accepted until the end of February, giving you time to get the new ones.
IFTA Tax Return Deadlines
- Make sure your IFTA Tax returns are postmarked by the due date. Weekends and holidays don’t count, so the next business day is your last chance to file.
- Missing the deadline could mean extra penalties and interest.
- Even if you don’t get your tax return form in the mail, you still need to file on time. If you haven’t received it 14 days before the due date, call to get a new one.
Remember, you must file an IFTA tax return every quarter, even if you didn’t travel at all during that period.
Tax Return Reporting Quarters
- January – March
- April – June
- July – September
- October – December
Due Dates
- April 30
- July 31
- October 31
- January 31
Penalties if Not Filed
If you miss filing a quarterly return, don’t file by the due date, or fail to pay the tax you owe, you could face penalties and interest. The penalty will be either $50 or 10% of the total tax due, depending on which amount is greater.
At Mayflower, we understand that navigating the complex world of permits and tax requirements can be overwhelming for trucking businesses.
That’s why we offer comprehensive assistance with obtaining and renewing permits, including IFTA permits and additional state-specific permits. Let us handle the paperwork while you stay focused on the road ahead At Mayflower, we handle all your permit needs swiftly and efficiently. Whether you’re applying for or renewing IFTA permits or additional state-specific permits, we’ve got you covered. Stay on the road while we take care of the paperwork.
We will help you with:
- Completion and submission of IFTA applications
- Maintain accurate fuel and mileage records required for IFTA
- Help truckers file quarterly IFTA tax returns accurately and on time
- Provide guidance on how to prepare for and respond to IFTA audits
- Regular compliance checks to ensure truckers meet all IFTA requirements
- Educational resources to help truckers understand IFTA regulations
- Resolving any issues or discrepancies with IFTA filings or payments
- Managing the renewal and distribution of IFTA licenses and decals each year
- Personalized consultations to address specific questions about IFTA
