New Year's Checklist: Everything Your Business Needs To Start 2015 Strong!

You know that gnawing feeling, when you just know that you’ve forgotten something, but you don’t know what?

It’s not a pleasant feeling to have, particularly when it involves your business. Maintaining your own operating authority, or that of multiple trucks in a fleet, is no small task.

With numerous taxes, registrations, and renewals to file continually throughout the year, it’s pretty easy to overlook something!

That’s why your friends at Truck Services of North America have made a list! (Yes, we checked it twice…) It’s everything your business needs to start 2015 out strong!

Many items on this Checklist are due by tomorrow 12/31. While it may be too late to get it submitted on time, it’s not too late for damage control! Minimize penalties by getting on top of it today.

TSNAmerica can help get you back on track, whether you’re behind on quarterly IFTA filings, or you need temporary fuel permits to cover a gap. Let’s dive in to our ultimate 2015 New Year’s Checklist!

1. IFTA License Renewals- Due 12/31

• IFTA license renewals are due in all states tomorrow. If you’re an interstate carrier with a vehicle weighing over 26,000 pounds or with 3 or more axles, then you are required to carry a valid IFTA license and display credentials in the cab of each vehicle. 
• If you submitted your renewal application on time, then your vehicles will be covered under the grace period for the display of new credentials throughout Jan. & Feb. of 2015–but only as long as your 2014 credentials are still displayed. 
• If you did not submit your renewal application on time, or if you have outstanding returns to be filed or taxes owed, then you must obtain temporary permits for each state your intend to travel through until your valid 2015 credentials arrive.

2. UCR Renewals- Due 12/31

• Also required for all interstate carriers with commercial vehicles weighing at least 10,001 pounds, the Unified Carrier Registration renewal is due by tomorrow. 
• The renewal fees will be based on the number of vehicles in your fleet. Unlike IFTA, you will not be required to display credentials on your vehicle. 
• If your business headquarters has moved, now is the time to change your UCR base state. Advanced notice must be given to your current state. Call TSNAmerica for help with the transition!

3. IRP Renewals- Due 12/31

• Following the same requirements as IFTA, the International Registration Plan is mandatory for all interstate carriers with vehicles weighing over 26,000 pounds or with 3 or more axles.
• While IRP renewal deadlines are different in every state, the following states have all IRP renewals due tomorrow 12/31: Kansas, Nebraska, Oregon & Wyoming. 
• For states with staggered renewal deadlines (based on when you first registered), many have a deadline of 12/31 as well. These staggered deadline states are Arizona, Missouri, Montana & Utah. Check your IRP credentials if you’re unsure when your renewal application is due.

4. Intrastate Authority Renewals- Due 12/31

• The following states require intrastate authority renewals by 12/31: Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi & Rhode Island.
• Each state has a different renewal procedure (E-filing, mail, etc.) and each has unique requirements. Check out this blog, for more information about renewing your intrastate authority. 
• In addition to a renewal application and fee payment, most states also require proof of current insurance and that your business be in good standing before you will be allowed to renew. 
• Ready to cross state lines? If your business is ready to transition to interstate, TSNAmerica can help make the transition smooth. Check out our deluxe authority packages!

5. 4th Quarter IFTA Filings- Due 01/31/15

• Tomorrow is the close of the fourth IFTA quarter! Have you been keeping precise fuel and mileage records for the past 3 months?
• Whether the answer is yes, no, or somewhere in between, the good news is, you still have a few weeks to get your act together–and we can help!
• Late Penalties: The January deadline will be here before you know it! Avoid late fees by getting on top of IFTA now by using a program like ExpressIFTA to prepare your returns. 
• Or just have TSNAmerica prepare your return for you! That means zero calculations for you! We’ll prepare the form based on your trip sheets, and then submit it directly to your state. 
• IFTA Audits: Check out these tips for avoiding the dreaded IFTA audit! 

In addition to these five titans, don’t forget about other requirements specific to your state, such as the New Mexico Weight Distance and Oregon Weight Receipt Renewals. Whether you need to file a state use tax like these or one of the big interstate renewals above, Truck Services of North America knows the requirements for your state and can file everything you need fast.

View our service packages at tsnamerica.com. Then send us a Service Request Form, call us at 803.386.0320, or email us 24/7 at support@tsnamerica.com. We’re ready and eager to help you make 2015 the best year yet! Cheers!

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Merry Christmas from Truck Services of North America!

The Truck Services of North America family would like to wish you and yours a magical and very Merry Christmas!

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we hope that you can find the time to take a break and cherish the ones you love. Even if you’re away from home or OTR, a simple phone call can still make someone’s Christmas brighter and make any place feel more like home!

Our offices will be closed this Thursday 12/25 & Friday 12/26 so that we can spend time with our loved ones. We hope that you will be able to do the same. But if you need us, we will still be providing 24/7 emergency email support through the holiday! Just email at support@tsnamerica.com. In the meantime if you need anything at all, call us at 803.386.0320.

If you’re just too busy with holiday madness to finish up your end-of-year paperwork, don’t be afraid to ask for a helping hand! Even though it’s getting down to the wire, we can still file everything you need extra fast (with a little help from Santa and his elves).

Here’s what you may need to file by 12/31:

• IFTA License Renewals
• UCR Renewals
• IRP Renewals in AZ, MO, MT, UT, KS, NE, OR & WY
• Intrastate Authority Renewals

Thank you again for supporting our USA-based business. Your support and referrals mean the world to us, and thanks to you, 2014 has been a fantastic year! Here’s to making 2015 even better together!

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The IFTA Renewal Deadline Approaches: Only 2 Weeks Left!

Today officially marks the one-week countdown to Christmas AND the two-week countdown to

December 31st. You know what that means!

No, New Year’s Eve isn’t the only end-of-month event we are referring to.

December 31st is also the deadline for UCR Renewals, IRP Renewals in some states, and of course, the big one–IFTA license renewals across the board!

All of these renewal deadlines are just looming on the horizon, menacingly! If you’ve been procrastinating, it’s time to get in gear and start renewing. All of that paperwork isn’t going to fill itself out (unfortunately, but we are working on the technology for that.)

Until there’s such a technological breakthrough, your friends at TSNAmerica can help you file all of your renewals–but don’t wait another day! Time is rapidly running out for IFTA license renewals.

Here’s why:

• Many participating IFTA states require that you submit your renewal application well before the December 31st deadline. That means you need to submit the application asap!
• Moreover, many State Offices will be closed for the entire week between Christmas and New Years. If that’s the case in your state, you may need to have your application in by Christmas Eve.
• While a grace period was issued by the IFTA Association CEO, Lonette L. Turner, the grace period only covers the display of your new 2015 IFTA credentials.
  
  Renewal applications are still due by December 31st, and the grace period will only cover your old credentials if you submitted your renewal on-time. Otherwise, you may be required to obtain temporary permits for every state you plan to operate in until your new 2015 credentials arrive.

At Truck Services of North America, we are experts in filing paperwork super-fast and at the last minute. But we are only human! While we’ve worked a few filing miracles in our day, we file on a first-come, first-served basis, and in some cases, our ability to submit before the deadline is determined by the filing requirements in each state. While some states require electronic filing, others require hard-copies via postal mail, which means we need your information much sooner to account for a pre-deadline delivery.

That’s just one more reason why it’s important to stop saving your renewals for a rainy day, and start typing away! We know that with your busy schedule, that’s easier said than done. So if you just have too much to handle with the Holidays and your business’s end-of-year financials, then at least let us lighten your load. We can take your IFTA renewals, or even 4th quarter IFTA filings, off your plate and off of your mind.

Get started now by calling one of our service pro’s at 803.386.0320 or email us for 24/7 assistance at support@tsnamerica.com.

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Intrastate Authority Renewals: Due by December 31st!

The Renewal Season continues! Interstate carriers with their IFTA, IRP, and UCR license renewals aren’t the only ones with December deadlines approaching.

Intrastate carriers are also in the throes of renewal season, with several states requiring that intrastate operating authorities be renewed before the end of December.

(Remember, interstate refers to travel across state lines or internationally, while intrastate travel is within the boundaries of a state only. To see the different requirements for intrastate v. interstate carriers, check out this blog!)

Don’t let the deadline, with it’s fees and penalties, catch you unaware! See below if your state requires you to renew your intrastate authority by December 31st!

Georgia- GIMC Renewal

• The Georgia Intrastate Motor Carrier (GIMC) license must be renewed annually by the end of December. This license grants you intrastate authority, that is the authority to pick-up and drop-off loads within Georgia state lines only. For interstate authority, an MC#, IRP, UCR, and IFTA license must be obtained instead.
• Upon renewal, you will need to present current proof of insurance, and if you are a non-citizen, proof of ID and a signed GSICA affidavit must also be presented each year.

Indiana

• Private carriers hauling nonhazardous materials do not need to renew. If you’re a licensed hazmat carrier, call TSNAmerica for details on renewing your license!

Kansas

• Due by December 31st, your Kansas Interstate Authority cannot be renewed if you don’t have valid insurance on file. You also will not be allowed to renew if your authority is not in good standing. 
• You may renew by mail (if they mailed you a packet) or online. If you choose to renew online, note that you must have a printer to print your credentials. They will not be mailed to you, unless you have TSNA file for you! We’ll file and send you the credentials ASAP!

Kentucky

• Paperwork must be mailed back (postmarked by Dec. 31st) with a fee of $25, plus an additional $10 per vehicle you’re renewing. 
• Kentucky also requires a separate intrastate fuel decal. TSNAmerica can help you renew both your authority and KY INTRA Fuel decals!

Michigan

• Your state should’ve sent you the renewal packet back in October. Forms must be completed and either mailed back or walked into the office no later than December 31st. Failure to return or postmark your renewal by then will result in a denial of your request, and your authority will be revoked.

Mississippi

• Renewal packets were sent out Nov. 1st. Forms must be completed and mailed back with appropriate payment by December 31st. There is a fee of $10 per vehicle you’re renewing. 

Rhode Island

• Renewals must be mailed back by Dec. 31st with payment for a $100 fee, plus an additional $20 per vehicle. 

In addition to the renewal form and fee payment, most states also require proof of current insurance and that your business be in good standing.

Truck Services of North America can help you file your intrastate authority renewal before the deadline! Or if you need to obtain your intrastate operating authority for the first time, we can do that and more. We have deluxe services packages that will cover everything you need to obtain your authority and get your business running fast.

Planning a switch? If you plan to transition from intrastate to interstate trucking this New Year, let us know, and we’ll show you the ropes! Venturing into interstate authority can be tricky as it opens up the registration-filled wide world of MC#, IFTA, IRP, and UCR. Luckily, your friends at TSNAmerica are no strangers to these requirements, and we can make the transition a smooth one!

Don’t wait until Deadline Day! Call us today at 803.386.0320 or email us at support@tsnamerica.com to speak to one of our service pro’s in Rock Hill, SC.

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Countdown to December 31st: UCR & IFTA Renewal Reminders

The closer 2015 gets, the faster the days seem to fly by! It seems like Thanksgiving was just yesterday, but if you can believe it, there’s only about 2 weeks until Christmas!

With Christmas just weeks away, that means it’s time to confront the harsh reality that December 31st–with it’s plethora of deadlines–is rushing upon us!

Is panic slowly setting in?

No, I don’t want to dampen your Christmas spirit, but it’s important to take a break from ordering gifts on Amazon to get your renewals, and everything else you need to maintain your authority, taken care of asap! And with help from your friends at TSNAmerica, filing your renewals will seem much less daunting!

So let’s take a quick break from decking those halls and go through a quick rundown of the essentials for the two yearly renewal giants: UCR & IFTA.

UCR

• Due by Wednesday, December 31st (at the latest)!
• The Unified Carrier Registration is a federally-mandated registration for commercial vehicles weighing a minimum of 10,001 pounds. Though only 41 states currently participate in UCR, interstate and international carriers from these non-participating states are still required to register with UCR and choose a base state nearby. 
• This registration must be renewed annually, and the fees due are determined by the number of vehicles used by your company (or leased for a period exceeding 30 days). 
• Though you’ll receive new renewal credentials each year, these credentials need not be displayed on your vehicle. In fact, it is illegal to do so. 
• The registration renewal period is the time you must change your base state if your business headquarters has moved to another state. Remember, you must provide advanced notice of the change to your current base state.

IFTA

• Due by (or before!) Wednesday, December 31st!
• The International Fuel Tax Agreement is a fuel tax levied on interstate carriers in the 48 contiguous United States and 10 provinces of Canada. Rather than pay fuel tax to each individual state you operate in, IFTA simplifies this process by allowing you to make a single tax payment to your base state each quarter. Your base in turn distributes the funds to other states in proportion to the mileage you accrued there.
• You must register for an IFTA license and report your fuel use and distance records each quarter if you’re an interstate carrier with a qualifying vehicle weighing over 26,000 pounds or with three or more axles. 
• If you’re already an IFTA registrant, don’t forget to keep precise fuel and mileage records. “Fudging” these numbers leads to IFTA audits. Check out these helpful tips on how to keep immaculate IFTA records and avoid the dreaded audit. Of course, if you have TSNAmerica prepare your IFTA returns for you, we know to check for all of these errors! Just one more step to ensure you’re safe!
• The IFTA license must be renewed annually; however, your license will only be renewed if your IFTA account is in good standing. That means you must have already submitted a return for every quarter AND paid all of the taxes due. Until you do both, you cannot renew. If you’re stuck in the past with overdue IFTA returns, call TSNAmerica, and we’ll help you file fast and get back on track!
• Some states require that you submit your renewal weeks before the deadline to ensure time for processing, so it’s crucial to not wait until the last minute!
• But we know that procrastination happens, and the IFTA Association knows it too. That’s why they’ve put a grace period in place to cover those without new credentials during Jan. and Feb. of 2015. 
• The grace period only applies to those who filed their renewal application prior to the deadline! If you miss the Dec. 31st cut off, you are required to have a temporary permit for each state you plan to travel through until your new credentials arrive. If you need temporary permits, TSNAmerica can get you the hook up! We can get you every permit you need filed in record time!

How do you stack up with this checklist? Noticed a few big things you’ve overlooked? No matter what the issue is, Truck Services of North America has the expertise to eliminate your increasing paperwork and make sure you kick off the New Year on the right foot!

Check out all of our services at TSNAmerica.com, then call us today at 803.386.0320 or send us an email support@TSNAmerica.com.

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Happy Thanksgiving from Truck Services of North America!

Happy Thanksgiving from our family at Truck Services of North America!

A Letter of Gratitude

We’d like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to all of you, not just to our TSNAmerica clients (who are awesome, by the way!), but to everyone in the transportation industry!

We love serving those in the trucking industry because of the monumental service you all provide for our nation. Days like Thanksgiving wouldn’t be possible without all of the fresh food that you delivered to our local markets.

And then there’s Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas shopping, and that oh-so-handy expedited shipping–none of which would be possible without you working around the clock. Last minute Christmas shoppers (like me) would be out of luck if it weren’t for the truckers willing to drive through the night.

So in this season where we remind ourselves to give thanks for everything, big and small, we want to thank you, the transportation professionals always working behind the scenes and rarely getting the appreciation you deserve.

Thank you for your constant service and dedication to safety. We’re grateful that we can serve you!

Thanksgiving Festivities

Every year, the TSNAmerica team gets together with the entire SPAN Enterprises family for a huge Thanksgiving Potluck! 

Everyone brings their signature holiday dishes, and we always bring way too much and have plenty of leftovers. Amidst the feast of three giant turkeys (they're call it that in the history books) was green bean casserole, mac and cheese, mashed cauliflower, dressing, corn casserole, and every other scrumptious side you can think of. And that didn't even include dessert.

Of course before we indulged, we had to remember those in the community who are less fortunate, so we donated hundreds of canned vegetables to a local children's and homeless shelter, Pilgrims' Inn! Nothing  beats the feeling of giving back!

And no Thanksgiving party would be complete without games! We had a corn cob eating contest, a turkey-drawing contest, a turkey-imitating contest, AND we played pin the feather on the turkey! Here's support specialist, Staci, searching for her turkey. This story has a happy ending. Staci found her turkey and successfully pinned a feather on the tail!

And then came the food. While we were chowing down, each of us shared what we are thankful for this year. Here were some of the responses:

• TSNAmerica Manager Carrie is thankful for the new roof over her head and thankful that the hail storm this year was the only bad weather we had to deal with in SC!
• Amber, one of our support specialists, is grateful for the simple things in life that we often take for granted, like faith, family, friends, love & music.
• Staci, the newest member of our support team, gave thanks for her tight-knit circle of friends who is always there to cheer her up and cheer her on!

To see what everyone else in the SPAN family is thankful for, check out the SPAN Facebook page!

SPAN Family Photo

Holiday Support Hours

To spend time with our families, our offices will be closed this Thursday 11/27 and Friday 11/28. However, we'll still be available for email assistance at support@tsnamerica.com! We'll be back on the phones and online chat Monday.

We hope you all get the chance to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends. Drive safely!

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November 30th Deadlines: Oregon Weight-Mile and SD IRP Renewals

TSNAmerica is back with a Trucking News update!

If you operate in Oregon or South Dakota, beware of a potential “road block” ahead!

Oregon Weight-Mile quarterly tax filings are due Tuesday, November 30th, and so are many South Dakota IRP Renewals.

TSNAmerica is here to help you avoid a paper-work traffic jam! We have all of the information you need to stay in the loop, plus we can file it all for you fast!

Oregon Weight-Mile Tax

• This weight-mile tax is required for commercial vehicles travelling on Oregon’s public roads that weigh over 26,000 lbs. 
• Private or off-road travel need not be reported, and government, charity, and many farm vehicles are excluded from the tax.
• If you are a current registrant for this tax, you are required to file a report even if the tax owed is zero and you didn’t operate at all this quarter.
• If you no longer plan to operate at all, you must cancel your Weight Receipt. 
• Tuesday, November 30th is the reporting deadline for those on the Quarterly Mileage fee basis. Your fee basis is determined by the vehicle’s weight, load contents, and purpose for travel. Check with the ODOT if you’re unsure of your fee basis.
• However, 1st year Weight Receipt holders are required to report mileage tax monthly. 
• When reporting on a monthly basis, filings must be submitted electronically or postmarked by the last day of the month following the close of the reporting period. For example, November filings would be due by December 31st.
• And don’t forget, your Weight receipt, one of the credentials for the Weight-Mile tax along with the Tax Identifier, must also be renewed with the ODOT annually!

South Dakota IRP Renewals

• According to SD law, if your vehicle transports items weighing more than 500 lbs for business, you must be commercially licensed. For intrastate carriers, this means obtaining a commercial license, but for interstate carriers, a trip permit or IRP license is required.
• Some vehicles are exempt from the IRP (Prorate) license. Contact us to find out if you’re exempt!
• Renewal deadlines for SD IRP renewal are staggered based upon the date you first applied for licensure. If you are unsure whether your renewal is due Nov. 30th, call TSNAmerica for help! 
• You will need the following for your annual SD IRP Renewal Application: distance travelled in each jurisdiction for all of the vehicles you’ve registered, including trip permit distance (for newly added vehicles) and mileage traveled on toll roads. 
• On the application form, you must also note any changes in business information, as well as vehicle information. This includes any change in vehicle ownership, changes in registered vehicle weight, and addition or removal of vehicles from your fleet. Vehicle changes should be noted on the Vehicle Information Form on Schedule A/E. While renewing, you must also notify them of any changes to the IRP jurisdictions you intend to travel through.
• In addition to yearly renewal, SD IRP license holders are required to display cab cards and apportioned vehicle ID plates, as well as keep thorough records. Records must be kept for six years (the current year and five previous years), and should include the following information: IVDFR (individual vehicle distance and fuel records), a monthly summary, a quarterly summary, and a yearly summary. 
• Renewals must be filed at least 45 days prior to the due date, and the fees must be paid at least 15 days before. 

If you have questions or need help filing your Oregon Weight-Mile tax return or SD IRP renewal, call us for immediate assistance from a real, happy person in our hometown of Rock Hill, SC.

We can help you figure out what you need to file, and we’ll file it for you extra fast! And because this is what we do, we can also take care of your quarterly IFTA returns, IFTA renewal, UCR renewal, IRP renewal in other states and more- all before the filing deadlines!

Give us a call today at 803.386.0320. or email us at support@tsnamerica.com to cut down on your pesky paperwork.

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2015 IFTA Renewal Period: Now through December 31st

The end of the year is creeping ever-closer! And with the approaching new year comes the time for registration renewals.

We’re in the midst of several open renewal periods right now, IRP being one of them. If you’re based in Kansas, Nebraska, Oregon, or Wyoming, then your International Registration Plan renewal deadline is coming up on December 31st. And then, of course, there’s UCR! The Unified Carrier Registration must also be renewed by December 31st.

But we can’t forget the big one, the one Fuel Tax to rule them all! IFTA license renewals are due by–you guessed it–December 31st!

Between IRP, UCR, IFTA, other state-specific requirements, AND the holidays approaching, interstate truckers have their work cut out for them! If you’re an interstate trucker, then right about now you’re probably looking at these due dates and screaming incoherently, and maybe even tossing in a few saltier words, for good measure.

Stifle those screams, and dry those tears...and wash your mouth out with soap! TSNAmerica has all of the information you need to make it through the end of the year–with your sanity in tact!

Here’s everything you need to know about filing your 2015 IFTA License Renewal. And if this seems like too much to handle, we can always take care of it for you. Hooray!

• What is IFTA? Do I need it? The International Fuel Tax Agreement is an agreement between the 48 contiguous United States and 10 provinces of Canada for the collection and distribution of fuel taxes. This tax applies to commercial carriers that operate qualifying vehicles internationally or across state lines, in other words, interstate. A qualifying vehicle is one that weighs over 26,000 pounds or that has three or more axles, regardless of weight.
  
  If you’re an interstate carrier with a qualifying vehicle, then you must 1.) register for IFTA, 2.) display credentials according to the laws of your state, 3.) file quarterly tax returns, and 4.) keep precise mileage and fuel use records.
• 50 Shades of IFTA: Each state has its own set of requirements for quarterly IFTA filings and for the renewal of licenses. Some states will send you renewal notifications and instructions. Some will leave you to fend for yourself!
  
  States also vary in their renewal methods, with some using electronic or online channels, others requiring paper copies via postal mail, and still others that automatically renew your license for you if your account is in good standing.
  
  The filing due date is a bit of a gray area too. IFTA licenses are valid between January 1 and December 31st of each year, with license renewals due by December 31st; however, some states require that you submit your renewal application well before the December 31st deadline to allow time for processing prior to the close of the year.
  
  No matter what your state requires, it’s your responsibility to be familiar with the requirements and file correctly and before December 31st. The silver-lining is, we already know the requirements for each state and can file the renewal for you!
• They’ve Made a List & Checked it Twice: Your IFTA base state knows if you’ve been naughty or nice, a naughty late-filer that is. To renew your IFTA license, your account must be in good standing. This means you cannot have any outstanding tax owed, and you must have filed for every quarter. If you missed a quarter, you are required to submit your report and pay any tax owed before you’ll be allowed to renew. The sooner you do it, the lesser the penalties and interest accrued.
  
  And more good news here- TSNAmerica will prepare the return for you based on your trip sheets, and we’ll submit it to your state. We’re friends with the IFTA elves in every base jurisdiction, so we can get you back on the “Nice” list extra fast.
• Saving Grace: The IFTA board smiles upon you! There is a grace period, but as we previously covered, it’s for the display of 2015 IFTA credentials only. Absolutely all renewal applications are due by (or in some cases weeks before) December 31st. However, if you don’t receive your new license and decals in time for Jan. 1, you’ll be fine. As long as you display valid 2014 credentials and you’ve already filed your renewal, then you’ll be covered under the grace period through January and February of 2015.
  
  
  

If you aren’t sure what your base jurisdiction’s requirements are, TSNAmerica can help! We’ve filed enough IFTA renewals to stretch to the moon and back. Let us use that knowledge and experience to help you file on time. 

Don’t wait until the last minute! Call us today at 803.386.0320 or email us at support@tsnamerica.com. We’ll make sure the only paperwork you have to worry about this season is wrapping paper (or tissue paper, if you’re extra fancy).

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Breaking News for Truckers: IFTA Grace Periods & Filing Extensions–We've Got the Scoop!

Extra, Extra, Read all about it!

TSNAmerica here, with breaking news to keep you truckin’.

We’ve got great news on the IFTA front today! News that just couldn’t wait until our Newsletter.

No matter which state you’re based in, this info applies to you, so read on & feel free to share with friends!

Louisiana 3rd Quarter Deadline Extension

The Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDA) released a statement yesterday extending the deadline for 3rd Quarter IFTA filings submitted electronically.

Here’s why. The LaTAP (Louisiana Taxpayer Access Point) web application for submitting IFTA returns electronically was unavailable from Monday October 27th, 2014 to Tuesday November 4th, 2014. The maintenance to this E-filing system coincided with the IFTA filing deadline on October 31st, 2014.

As a result, the LDA is extending the deadline for September filings to Monday November 17th, 2014. All September filings will be considered on-time if submitted by this date, and LDA will waive all late penalties and interest fees. The system upgrade may also delay Louisiana distributing the IFTA revenue to other jurisdictions.

This is great news overall for LA IFTA licensees! If your IFTA filing was late for any reason, be sure to submit it through the LaTAP system by the 17th to avoid any late fees! Call TSNAmerica at 803.386.0320 if you need assistance!

IFTA Credential Grace Period

CEO of the International Fuel Tax Association, Lonette L. Turner, issued a statement Friday to all IFTA members. In it, she announced the grace period protocol for the proper display of IFTA credentials in January and February of 2015.

While renewal applications are due by December 31st in all states, it usually takes a few weeks to receive the new license and decals from each base jurisdiction. The grace period was implemented to cover this gap between applications being submitted and credentials being received.

The excerpt below is taken from the IFTA Articles of Agreement, Section R655.

R655 Grace Period

• .200
  Carriers renewing their IFTA license and decals have a two-month grace period (January and February) to display the renewal IFTA license and decals. To operate in IFTA jurisdictions during this grace period, carriers must display either valid current or prior year IFTA license and decals from the jurisdiction in which they were operating or a valid single-trip permit from the IFTA jurisdiction in which they are operating.

So let’s break it down. This means there are three options available to trucks operating in IFTA member states during January and February of 2015.

1. 1. Display a valid 2015 IFTA license and two IFTA decals issued by your base jurisdiction. As they say, the early bird gets the IFTA decals! Good on you if you have these credentials in time! But in case you don’t…
2. 2. Display a valid 2014 IFTA license and two IFTA decals from your base jurisdiction, but only if you’ve already filed your 2015 renewal application!
3. 3. You snooze, you buy permits! The third option is to purchase a trip permit from all IFTA member states you will be operating in during those two months. 

Option 3 is certainly the most costly, so be sure to file your license renewal soon! Ms. Turner reiterated that this grace period in no way applies to renewal filings. The extension only applies to the display of new IFTA credentials. Renewal applications are still due by December 31st, 2014.

If you have yet to file your IFTA renewal and you have two busy months ahead, let us handle it for you. TSNAmerica gets the paperwork out of your way so you can focus on the road.

And if you’re already stressing over 4th Quarter IFTA filings, we can help with that too! Simply send us your completed trip sheets, and we’ll prepare your return for you. No calculations, no long forms to fill out. We’ll also submit it directly to your base state so you don’t have to.

Call us at 803.386.0320 or send us an email support@TSNAmerica.com. And stay tuned for more breaking trucking news!

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Halloween Deadline Reminders: IFTA, NY HUT & More

NY HUT, KYU, and IFTA, Oh my! We don’t mean to give you a fright…

This is just a friendly reminder from the witches and warlocks of TSNAmerica, giving you a much-deserved treat instead of a trick.

All of these quarterly filings coming due on Halloween is enough to make any trucker howl with fright!

So we thought we’d take the dead out of deadline by quickly recapping what’s due this Friday, Oct. 31st and who needs to file.

IFTA

• Oct. 31st is the due date for 3rd quarter IFTA filings. 
• Commercial carriers are required to register with the International Fuel Tax Agreement if the vehicle travels interstate in the US & Canada AND if the vehicle weighs over 26,000 pounds or has three or more axles. 
• IFTA registrants must keep thorough records (including original receipts) of all fuel purchases, fuel use per jurisdiction, and mileage traveled in each jurisdiction. Keep all original documents for at least three years after filing. 
• To avoid an IFTA audit, be sure to avoid these common errors when preparing your return! Gaps in mileage, skewed MPG–all are red flags for IFTA auditors.
• TSNAmerica can help you prepare your IFTA return! Call us at 803.386.0320. for details. 

*Note: IFTA does not cover road taxes, weight-mile taxes, or any other state-specific requirements. If you are based in or travel through one of the states listed below, you may be required to register and submit quarterly returns for that tax.

NY HUT

• The New York Highway Use Tax applies to vehicles with a gross weight exceeding 18,000 pounds travelling on NY public highways.
• Trucks with an unloaded weight over 8,000 lbs. and unloaded trailers weighing over 4,000 lbs. are also required to file the quarterly NY HUT. 
• The tax is filed quarterly and based on the gross weight of the vehicle AND the number of miles traveled on NY highways. Miles traveled on certain toll-paid portions of the NY State Thruway will not be taxed.
• A trip permit may be used in place of NY HUT registration, but no more than 10 trip permits can be used in a year.

New Mexico Weight-Distance

• Like the NY HUT, the New Mexico weight-distance tax is based on the weight of the vehicle and the number of miles traveled on New Mexico roads. 
• Heavy vehicles exceeding a 26,000 lb. gross weight are required to register and file a quarterly return. The tax rate is graduated, increasing with the weight of the vehicle.
• A new permit must be obtained each year and displayed on the vehicle. 
• Unlike IFTA, this New Mexico tax applies to both interstate and intrastate commercial vehicles. 

KYU

• The Kentucky Highway Use Tax is required for interstate vehicles with a combined licensed weight of 60,000 lbs. and above. Before filing the quarterly tax, you must obtain a KYU license number. 
• Licensed agricultural vehicles and buses are excluded from this tax.
• The tax is based on the number of miles traveled on Kentucky roads.
• Intrastate only vehicles have separate requirements under the Kentucky Intrastate License Tax. This is a fuel tax levied on vehicles exceeding 26,000 lbs or having three or more axles.

In addition to these four deadlines, don’t forget the 4th quarter International Fuel Tax Agreement and Unified Carrier Registration renewal due dates coming up December 31st.

But don’t let taxes or registrations ruin your holiday season! By calling Truck Services of North America, you’re not only ensuring that it’s filed correctly, you’re freeing up more time to spend with friends and family. And you can’t put a price on that.

Give us a call today at 803.386.0320. or email us at support@tsnamerica.com for assistance with your paperwork. And have a very candy-filled Halloween!

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UCR Renewal Period Open for 2015

Has the paperwork been piling up lately? With the season of registration renewals upon us, it’s bound to happen! But while you’re diligently working on IRP renewals and compiling your 3rd quarter IFTA returns, don’t forget to file your annual UCR renewal!

Luckily, Truck Services of North America is equipped to handle all of the above, and then some! We can calculate your fuel tax and prepare your IFTA filing faster than you can say International Fuel Tax Agreement. Simply send us your trip logs, but don’t wait until the last minute! We file on a first come, first served basis. We can quickly file your IRP renewals too. You name it, we can take care of it and take the paperwork out of your way!

But IFTA isn’t the subject of discussion today. We’re here to give you the low-down on UCR procedures–just in time for the renewal deadline!

Under the Hood of UCR

The Unified Carrier Registration Agreement is a federally-mandated, state-administered annual registration for commercial vehicles weighing at least 10,001 pounds. The registration fees, which help fund motor safety programs, are based on the number of vehicles used or leased (for a period longer than 30 days) by the company and typically only apply to vehicles that operate interstate or internationally.

Interstate-only carriers or USDOT registrants under the PRISM program are not required to register with UCR. However, some states, like Georgia for instance, have instituted a UCR program for intrastate carriers. Be sure to check the UCR regulations in your state as these can change year to year.

Currently 41 states participate in UCR, but even if you’re not based in a participating state, you must still register annually by selecting a base state nearby.

Where’s My Base?

Your base state collects the UCR fees on behalf of all participating states. This simplifies the registration process by replacing SSRS, the Single State Registration System. When selecting your base, you should choose the state your business is headquartered in, unless that state does not participate in UCR. If that is the case, choose a participating state that your business has an office or operating facility in. Finally, if neither of those options work, then choose the nearest UCR state to your business headquarters.

Change of Base?

If you need to change your base state, you’re in luck! Base changes can only be made once a year during the renewal period. If your business has moved to another state, or if your state has elected to change its UCR status (changing from participants to non-participants or vice versa), then you will need to change your base state when you renew. You are also required to give advance notice of the change to your current base state.

How Do I Renew?

Now for the tricky part! The UCR renewal period is open from now until December 31st. The renewal form from your base, along with your state’s fee, must be submitted before that date for you to remain compliant.

After filing, you’ll receive written documentation from your state to keep for road checks and proof of compliance. You do not need to display these credentials on your vehicles; in fact, it’s illegal for any state to require it.

UCR Audits

Audits happen. Under the UCRA, states are required to perform audits, both randomly and deliberately in certain circumstances. If you register fewer vehicles this year than last year, and this deduction places you in a lower payment bracket, you will be audited. All states are required to audit businesses that move into lower payment brackets to ensure that the vehicles were actually lost, sold, etc, and that there is no fraudulent activity.

It’s also crucial that you keep all documents related to your UCR registration for at least three years thereafter. You will be required to present this documentation and make it available in your base state if you are selected for audit.



Waiting until the last minute is never a good idea, so if you’re too swamped to sort out your UCR renewal, give us a call. Ring us at 803.386.0320 or email us at support@TSNAmerica.com. You can also submit a Service Request Form or view our services at tsnamerica.com. We’re proudly based in Rock Hill, SC, and offer superior customer support.

Let TSNAmerica handle UCR, IRP, IFTA and any other long acronyms that are sucking up your time! That’s not why you’re in this business, so don’t let them dominate your time. Plus it’s always nice to have one less thing to worry about, especially when your business’s success depends on it!

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Pennsylvania Intrastate vs. Interstate Fuel Tax: Demystifying PA’s MCRT & IFTA

Today, we’re taking a closer look at Fuel Tax regulations in the great Keystone State. While Pennsylvania does participate in the International Fuel Tax agreement, it also has a separate fuel tax known as the MCRT.

Do you know which registration is required for your business?

TSNAmerica knows! Let’s dig in and demystify the confusing jargon and regulations.

The Pennsylvania Motor Carriers Road Tax (MCRT) is an annual fuel tax imposed on PA intrastate carriers not participating in IFTA. The tax also applies to out-of-state carriers travelling through PA who are based in non-IFTA jurisdictions.

If you are a current IFTA license holder, then the PA MCRT does not apply to you.

MCRT levies a tax per gallon times the amount of fuel used on Pennsylvania highways; however, credits are awarded for fuel purchased in PA which tax has already been paid on.

MCRT Registrants- What do you need to do?

• 1. Renew your MCRT account annually by purchasing the credentials. The renewal will be mailed to you each year in September and is due by December 31st.
  
  Our clients at TSNAmerica should have received the renewal form from us in the mail already! If you need a form, or haven’t received yours yet, give us a call!
• 2. Display your MCRT credentials. Each year, you’ll receive 2 decals to be displayed in each taxable vehicle. A card must be placed in both the driver’s and passenger’s cab windows.
• 3. Maintain accurate records. All mileage and fuel purchases should be regularly recorded in Trip Sheets and kept for at least 4 years along with all original receipts.
  
  These reports should detail all of the equipment used, the mileage per vehicle, and the fuel purchases per vehicle. Records must be submitted annually with your MCRT renewal application. Unlike IFTA, quarterly reports are not required for the Pennsylvania MCRT.

Temporary Permits are a legal alternative to Pennsylvania MCRT registration. However, the fee for a 5-day decal is steep. These permits should only be purchased as a last resort or for a one-time occurrence. TSNAmerica can obtain these permits for you fast! If you’re pressed for time, we know how to keep your business trucking without any delays.

Whether you’re strictly PA intrastate or an interstate carrier based in the Keystone State, Truck Services of North America has the know-how to get your business registered quickly and correctly.

We can file your MCRT yearly renewal or prepare your 3rd quarter IFTA filing for you! We handle all of the paperwork & calculations, completing your return based on the trip sheets you provide. And we file it directly with your base jurisdiction!

View our premier service packages, send us a Service Request Form, or call us at 803.386.0320. We’re always happy to answer questions and help a trucker in need!

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3rd Quarter IFTA Deadline: A Cautionary Tale for Late Filers

With 6 A.M. came the mingling of the lights. That brief moment when Night and Day dance together, one inevitably yielding to the other. The creeks and hums of Night slowly giving way to the first stirrings of morning.

And as that first bit of dawn leaked through the curtains of his cab window, Bobby’s alarm suddenly awoke him with an ear-piercing chord.

He stirred from his slumber to silence his phone with a *smack.*

It was just another day on the road for Bobby… or so he thought. But this day’s events would turn out to be far more sinister.

As he rubbed his eyes and glanced at his phone, a small reminder popped up: “IFTA Due Today.” His heart beginning to thump wildly, he glanced at his calendar to see the cold, hard truth of it.

It was October 31st, 2014, the Day of the Deadline.

Bobby often thought about the approaching third quarter IFTA deadline, but his thoughts were quickly diverted by more pressing matters. 

Upcoming maintenance on his truck. Delivering his cargo on time. Desperately seeking a few solid hours of rest. 

Bobby, like so many others, assumed he’d get around to IFTA later. And later never came.

Accepting the harsh reality, Bobby sprung from his bed, one hand buttoning his shirt, the other rummaging around for a shoe box filled with fuel receipts.

He retrieved the box, and slowly pried off the lid to reveal its horrifying contents.

Dozens of receipts, old and new, twisted and writhing upon one another like a fistful of worms. Many illegible. Many more missing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bobby knew he needed original receipts for all fuel purchases. “Now is not the time to panic,” Bobby repeated to himself. But it was futile. Panic already had Bobby is his steely grip, and the grip was getting tighter each second.

Beginning to lose hope, Bobby grabbed his incomplete trip sheets, powered up his laptop, and began typing them up, line by line.

Minutes became hours. And each hour felt the length of an eternity.

Squinting at the screen with his heavy eyelids, Bobby’s bloodshot eyes suddenly grew wide as he noticed the time. The deadline had passed, and Bobby’s IFTA filing was late. Again.

This wasn’t the first time Bobby missed the deadline. He was all too familiar with late filing penalties. So he carried on, knowing that the sooner he filed, the better.

Racing to finish, he filled in the gaps on his trip sheets the best he could. He “guest-imated” his fuel use based on a standard MPG. But in his haste, Bobby made these dire mistakes–and many more. Mistakes that would cost Bobby dearly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Months had passed, and Bobby had almost forgotten that fateful night. Until one brisk evening, he sat alone and exhausted in the quiet of his cab.

The phone rang.

Bobby, startled, peered over to his phone to see who was calling. It was an unfamiliar number he’d never seen before.

He reached over and slowly raised the phone to his ear. “Hello?” Bobby croaked.

Nothing.

“Hello?” he said more loudly. Still nothing. Sleep deprived, he wondered if he’d imagined the phone ringing. Just as he went to hang up, he heard someone on the other end. Breathing.

“Hello!” he said a third time, crazed with anticipation! The menacing breath quickened.

Finally, a somber voice spoke. “Mr. Hawkins, good evening. I’m calling to notify you...you’ve been selected for an IFTA audit.”

The phone slipped from Bobby’s hand. Stricken with shock, he sat staring blankly at the floor. He knew he’d gone too far. He knew his day of reckoning had come. And he wondered how he could’ve done things differently.

“If only I’d been more prepared,” he lamented. If only he’d known about TSNAmerica.

So I ask you, readers, will you be ready for the 3rd quarter IFTA deadline this October 31st?

You too can avoid the horrors of last-minute IFTA filing by heeding this cautionary tale.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Call Truck Services of North America and start preparing today. We’re available via phone at 803.386.0320, on live chat, or via email assistance at support@TSNAmerica.com.

Just send us your completed Trip Sheets, detailing your exact mileage and fuel use per jurisdiction, and we will use them to prepare and file your IFTA return for you, directly with your state. No calculations. No waiting in line. No worries.

And remember, even if you didn’t travel at all this quarter, you are still required to file if you hold a valid IFTA license.

Don’t waste your Halloween frantically filing your IFTA return. Leave it to us, and go out Trick-or-Treating instead. You deserve to have a little fun!

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IRP Renewal Season Starts Now

Fall isn’t the only new season to come knockin’ on your cab door.

October is nearly here, which can only mean two things for truckers: It’s not only getting close to 3rd quarter IFTA filings (due on Halloween!), but it’s also the beginning of IRP Renewal Season!

The International Registration Plan is an agreement among all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces for the fair distribution of registration fees to each jurisdiction based on a carrier’s distance traveled in each.

 

If you think that sounds confusing, that’s just the start! While IRP certainly makes registration fees less complicated, it’s still difficult to keep up with your base jurisdiction’s particular requirements, like the renewal due date, proper display of registration credentials, etc.

That’s where TSNAmerica comes in. As a premier processing service, we know the requirements for each jurisdiction and can ensure everything is filed correctly and on-time.

And today, we’re going to help you sort a few things out. For those completely new to IRP, we’ll give a brief overview of the plan. And for you seasoned IRP vets out there (or just first-time renewers), we’ll see which jurisdictions have renewal due dates coming up, and what you need to do about it.

Who is IRP for?

IRP is for commercial motor carriers operating in multiple jurisdictions across the US and Canada. In other words, it’s for those who travel interstate (not just intrastate) with a vehicle weighing over 26,000 lbs. and/or having three or more axles.

How does it benefit you?

IRP simplifies registration and distribution of fees. Rather than calculating the amount due to each jurisdiction you travel through, and sending the amount to each, with IRP, you only pay your base jurisdiction. Your base then calculates the amount due to each jurisdiction using your mileage reported, and it distributes the funds accordingly.

IRP also streamlines registration credentials. Rather than having several cab cards, license plates, and stickers for each jurisdiction, your base will issue one registration credential to display according to the rules in that state/province.

Finally, the fees from IRP registration contribute toward highway infrastructure and safety programs.

What are your responsibilities?

While the application and renewal processes vary by jurisdiction, there are a few basics expected of all IRP participants.

• Choose your base jurisdiction. 
  
  -Typically, this is the state in which your business headquarters is located.
  -You must provide documented proof to support your right to base in each state. Requirements will vary.

• Apply for IRP registration with your base.
  
  -This will not only require proof of your right to base there, but also a completed application with the appropriate fee.
  -Proof of current year’s HVUT paid with a stamped Schedule 1 for vehicles weighing 55,000 lbs. or more.
  -Additional documentation, such as IFTA registration, vehicle title, proof of insurance, proof of proper records keeping etc., may be required by your base. Check the requirements of your particular state.

• Properly display registration credentials upon receipt.
  
  -Again, this will vary by jurisdiction.

• Maintain thorough distance records by jurisdiction.
  
  -Records of mileage traveled in each jurisdiction are vital to ensure proper distribution of fees. These records must also be readily available in your base state for audit and must be kept for at least 3 years after the close of the registration period.

Now, for those already registered with IRP, which jurisdictions have a renewal deadline coming up? Montana and Utah have staggered renewal deadlines. Check your cab card for the expiry date.

Montana IRP Renewal Due: 09/30/14 for those with September expiry.

Utah IRP Renewal Due: 09/30/14 for those with September expiry.

Kansas IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

Nebraska IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

Oregon IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

Wyoming IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

While we covered quite a bit of ground here, there’s much more to learn about IRP regulations in your particular base.

TSNAmerica can assist you with acquiring your IRP registration or renewal. In fact, if you're one of our current clients, you should have received the renewal instructions via mail already! 

And if you're just starting out, we can arrange everything you need to obtain your interstate authority. We even have authority packages to get your new business up and running fast!

Don’t risk hefty fines. Ask the experts and get the job done right the first time. Call TSNAmerica 803.386.0320. or email at support@tsnamerica.com.

Have a happy & healthy Fall season!

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#NTDAW2014: Thank You from our Team at TSNAmerica

It’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, and what better time for Truck Services of North America to say thank you, not just to our clients, but to the 3 million and counting men & women in the industry!

We feel blessed everyday to work alongside all of you. Truck drivers are the foundation of our economy and of our lives! You maintain the highest level of safety and diligence every second of your extra-long work days.

While the rest of the world slumbers, you’re still out on the roads driving throughout the night to ensure your cargo is delivered on time. Your unrelenting hard work keeps our fast-paced world spinning.

Everywhere we look, we see your hard work in action. The computers we type on, the shoes on our feet, the roof over our heads- all were made possible by you!

No one can ever say thank you enough, but we have to try. That’s why our team at TSNAmerica strives each day to make your lives a little bit easier, so you can do your job with one less thing to worry about.

It’s our privilege to help keep you truckin’. Thank you for all that you do.

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BOC-3: What Is It & How Do I Get It?

“You’ve been served!”

Words no one ever wants to hear, but unfortunately, litigation is a part of life.

That’s exactly why the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) requires all interstate carriers to file a BOC-3. The BOC-3 must be filed with the FMCSA only once, but it is required to initially obtain your interstate authority. In other words–no BOC-3, no MC#.

So what is it? The purpose of the BOC-3 is to designate process agents (BOC-3 agents) in any of the 50 states that your transportation company conducts business in. The BOC-3 agents accept legal documents on your behalf and ensure speedy delivery to you, allowing you plenty of time to respond. If your BOC-3 agents are transportation lawyers, which is preferable, they will advise you on how to proceed based on the laws in that state.

 

If you’re new to interstate trucking, you’re likely wondering how you file for the BOC-3. The answer is…with us! The BOC-3 can only be E-filed through the FMCSA, and only BOC-3 certified processing agents are allowed to file. TSNAmerica E-files directly with the FMCSA, no third party involvement!

Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Some processing services take forever and will love you & leave you. But that’s not how we do business at Truck Services of North America.

We’ll get your BOC-3, as well as everything else you need to establish your authority, quickly and affordably. Whether it’s an MC#, UCR, or IRP, we’ll expertly hack & slash away the paperwork, leaving you time for what matters. Then we’ll stay with you, keeping you up-to-date on the latest industry news, and assisting with whatever challenges may arise.

Visit TSNAmerica.com to see how we can cut down on pesky paperwork. Then send us a Service Request Form, email us at support@TSNAmerica.com or call 803.386.0320. It’s good to have friends in high places, and it’s even better to have friends that make legal matters less stressful. Let’s be friends...

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Form 2290 Errors, Corrections, and Amendments

Earlier this week, we braved the HVUT Form 2290 filing deadline for vehicles first-used in July. And we survived!

Now that the tax-filing commotion is dying down, it’s time to deal with the aftermath. Often while the dust is settling, those who filed on time begin to notice errors in the information they reported to the IRS.

Misspellings in names or addresses, VIN errors and more begin to crop up. But how do you correct a return that has been accepted? Will this error mean you owe more tax or will you be entitled to a refund?

Here are a few quick tips to help you figure it out. Of course, this is only the tip of the tax-filing iceberg, so if you’d like the real nitty-gritty details, it’s best to ask an expert (like us!).

Form 2290 Amendments may be filed for the three instances below.

• VIN Correction: If your 2290 was accepted by the IRS, but you noticed a VIN error on your return, then you must file a VIN correction. Upon acceptance of the amendment, you will receive a new stamped Schedule 1 with the correct information. This correction should be filed immediately as an innaccurate Schedule 1 will lead to vehicle registration issues.
• Suspended Vehicle Exceeds Mileage Limit: If you initially filed your vehicle as suspended (category W), but it exceeds the 5,000 mile limit (or 7,500 miles for agricultural vehicles), then you must promptly file this amendment to notify the IRS and pay the tax owed. This change must be filed by the end of the following month after the mileage was exceeded.
• Increase in Gross Vehicle Weight: When filing Form 2290, vehicles are taxed, in part, according to weight category. If during the year, your load weight increases and causes your gross weight to extend into the next highest category, then this amendment should be filed. The filing is due by the end of the month after the increase takes place. You will be required to report the date that the increase began, and calculate tax-owed based upon that date.

For typos, misspellings, and name corrections, you must call the IRS directly to make the change. However, if you had Truck Services of North America file your 2290, then we’ll make any corrections for you!

Form 8849 Credits for Excise Taxes can be filed to request a refund on taxes paid! 

There’s always a silver-lining, even with taxes. However, not all changes warrant money back. For instance, credits are not awarded for vehicles that operate at a lower gross vehicle weight than initially reported. Moreover, refunds are not given if a vehicle is not used for part of the year. 

The following are qualifying events for a tax refund:

• Vehicle is lost, stolen, or destroyed. In any of these events, refunds will be issued by filing Form 8849 along with Schedule 6, reserved for other claims and credits regarding Form 2290.
• Vehicle traveled too few miles during the tax year. If your vehicle traveled 5,000 miles or less during the tax year (7,500 for agricultural vehicles), then you may file for a refund.

Rather than file for a refund, you may claim a credit on next year’s 2290 and apply it directly to that return, thereby reducing the amount of tax owed.

Throughout the tax year, changes are bound to occur. Instead of fumbling around with the six Schedules that go with Form 8849, why not have us handle it for you? We’ll not only get your money back faster, but we’ll turn your stressful experience into a distant memory by filing exactly what you need, right when you need it.

And best of all, we can file all of these form for you over the phone! Simply call us, give us your info, and then send us a consent form. We’ll then file on your behalf, and in the same day no less! You can’t find service like that, especially for our competitive pricing.

To see the array of services we offer, visit TSNAmerica.com. Then send us a Service Request Form, email us at support@TSNAmerica.com or call 803.386.0320.

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Countdown to August 31st: Form 2290 Filing Deadline

The clock is winding down!

Truck Services of North America is counting down to the HVUT Form 2290 filing deadline. While the deadline is September 2nd, returns should be submitted ideally by this Friday–the last business day of the month–to avoid late penalties!

In fact, the IRS website will be undergoing maintenance over this holiday weekend. So returns submitted over the weekend will not be processed until deadline-day.

Don’t get stuck in a filing traffic jam! Let TSNAmerica get your return filed on time, guaranteed!

Consent Form

Send us your signed & dated Consent Form by this Sunday the 31st, and we’ll guarantee that your 2290 is filed on time!

Any forms sent after that date will be filed in the order they’re received, and we cannot guarantee they’ll be filed before the deadline.

Pick a Date, Any Date!

On the Consent Form, you can indicate the date you’d like the return to be submitted to the IRS. We understand that some of you may want to wait until the 2nd to submit your return. While we can certainly submit it the last day, we must prepare your return ahead of time. Also, our filing fee will not be charged until we submit your return.

File over the Phone

If you haven’t received a Consent Form from us, no problem! Call us at 803.386.0320. It only takes us 5 minutes to get all the info we need to swiftly complete your 2290! Be sure to have your business and vehicle info handy when you call. 

After filing, we’ll mail, email or fax your stamped Schedule 1 back to you in minutes. Talk about instant gratification!

Rejection Can Be Hard

No one likes being rejected, especially by the federal government! If you’ve already had your Form 2290 rejected, we can correct it and retransmit it for you– all before the deadline! We can also file Form 2290 Amendments on your behalf, fixing any errors that slipped past the first time.

Wherever you are in the filing process, pick up the phone and let the pro’s take it from here! Truck Services of North America will take care of all your filing needs in time for the deadline. Just remember to send us everything by Sunday!

And our skills aren’t limited to tax-filings. We’re multi-talented. Check out our luxury services at TSNAmerica.com. Then send us a Service Request Form or email us at support@TSNAmerica.com.

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State of the Week: Part 2- Georgia Interstate Trucking

Georgia’s so nice, we blogged about it twice!

That’s right, folks. It’s time for Part 2 of our State of the Week feature on Georgia. Last time, we covered the three essentials for Georgia intrastate truckers. But today, we’re knockin’ over fences, crossing state lines, and exploring the wide-world of interstate trucking!

If you’re based in GA, what will you need to establish your interstate authority? Well, you’ll still need the basics, like your MC #, US DOT #, and annual Heavy Vehicle Use Tax.

But the answer to this question also depends on how often you plan to roam out-of-state. If your interstate travels are few and far between, then TSNAmerica can help you obtain temporary trip & fuel permits.

• Temporary Georgia Trip permits are a replacement in lieu of registering for IRP. Georgia Temporary Trip Permits are valid for 72 hours only. Temporary Georgia Fuel permits replace IFTA participation and are valid for 10 days. Both Georgia Trip and Fuel permits are required for any interstate travel for vehicles weighing over 26,000 lbs or with 3 or more axles, regardless of weight, even if it is only for a moment. 

If you need to travel out-of-state more than 2 or 3 times a year, then the most affordable option is to make everything official and get registered with Georgia IRP, IFTA, and UCR.

• 1. IRP: For interstate carriers, the International Registration Plan allows commercial vehicles to have just one registration plate and one cab card that grant authority to travel between jurisdictions in the U.S. and Canadian provinces. IRP is required for commercial vehicles that weigh over 26,000 lbs and/or have three or more axles. After completing your IRP registration and receiving your Georgia apportioned plate, you’ll pay quarterly fees to your base jurisdiction. The fees are based on the number of miles driven in each state, but you will only pay the state of Georgia, which then distributes the funds accordingly.
  
  The Georgia apportioned plates must be renewed yearly, but there are different renewal periods determined by the date the plate was first issued. WIth so many deadlines to remember, why not let TSNAmerica take care of your Georgia IRP renewal? IRP regulations are one of our specialties. We also process Georgia IRP supplements, can file to increase your IRP weight, and can add IRP jurisdictions, all in record time!
  
  And if you only need to make a one-time trip across state lines, TSNAmerica can obtain a Georgia temporary IRP permit in lieu of registering for IRP.
• 2. IFTA: The International Fuel Tax Agreement was implemented to simplify the collection and distribution of diesel fuel tax. Vehicles that travel interstate and that weight over 26,000 lbs and/or have 3 or more axles must register with IFTA in addition to IRP. Once registered, you will need to file an IFTA quarterly return with the state of Georgia, wherein you report the number of miles driven in each jurisdiction and pay fuel tax accordingly. Accurate fuel and mileage records must be maintained for both IFTA and IRP reports.
  
  Typing up trip sheets and calculating fuel tax can be a time-consuming nightmare! And unfortunately, mistakes are all too easy to make and can sometimes lead to an IFTA audit. TSNAmerica offers affordable Quarterly IFTA Filing Services. All you need is to provide us with your trip logs. We take care of all the calculations, check for errors, and file your return directly with the state department. No reason to break a sweat over your IFTA fuel tax report!
  
  But remember, if you’re only traveling out-of-state once, TSNAmerica can obtain a Georgia temporary IFTA permit instead of registering for IFTA.
• 3. UCR: The Unified Carrier Registration Agreement applies to all commercial vehicles weighing at least 10,001 lbs. or more that travel interstate. To maintain your Georgia UCR registration, you must first register your company with the Georgia Dept. of Revenue, then file a yearly application and pay an annual fee based upon the number of vehicles used.
  
  UCR can be confusing since even those operating as brokers, freight forwarders or leasing companies must still register for their Georgia UCR. But don’t take a gamble with your interstate authority. TSNAmerica removes the guesswork from registrations and renewals. Let us establish your Georgia UCR or renew it for your business each year. 

Whether you’re a part-time interstate traveler or a full-time nomad, TSNAmerica will provide speedy services tailored to your business’s needs. We have our finger on the pulse of the industry, so you never have to worry about changes in rules or fret over renewal deadlines. We’re always current and looking out for our clients, ensuring they have everything they need without lifting a finger. 

Call us today at 803.386.0320 and speak with a real, happy person in sunny Rock Hill, SC! You’ll never get trapped navigating an automated system. You can also shoot us an email at support@TSNAmerica.com, preview our services at TSNAmerica.com or send us a Service Request Form.

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State of the Week: Georgia Intrastate Trucking

Today, Georgia is on our minds!

It’s the 11th largest trucking state in the country! So let’s talk about intrastate trucking, Georgia style. If you’re based in the Peach State, buckle up and have a look at what you’ll need to keep on truckin’.

• 1. Truck Tax: Also known as Heavy Vehicle Use Tax, this fee is collected annually by the IRS.
  
  Anyone owning a vehicle that operates on public roads and that weighs 55,000 lbs. or more must pay this tax. The tax year begins July 1st, and the filing deadline for renewals is the end of August. By filing Form 2290, one can determine the amount of tax or credits owed to the IRS. After filing, you’ll receive a Stamped Schedule 1.
  
  Completing Form 2290, Amendments, Form 8849, and everything else that comes along with HVUT can be overwhelming. No one understands this better than TSNAmerica. We talk to you, real truckers, every day. That’s why we offer same-day filing of Form 2290– over the phone! Just one quick phone call, and then you can keep trucking while we take care of the paperwork.

• 2. GIMC: The Georgia Intrastate Motor Carrier registration, known as GIMC, is required for all carriers that operate a motor vehicle for compensation within the state of Georgia. Registering for the GIMC grants carriers their intrastate authority. There are four steps required to successfully register for GIMC. First, one will need the completed GIMC application form. Form E, a certificate of liability insurance issued by the insurance provider, is the second requirement. Steps 3 and 4 prove one’s US citizenship or right to operate in the US. A completed and signed GSICA affidavit accompanied by proof of ID are needed. Steps 3 and 4 will need to be repeated annually for those who are not US citizens.
  
  To maintain your Georgia intrastate authority, the GIMC needs to be renewed annually by the end of December. Current proof of insurance is needed. Upon renewal, you'll receive a certificate to keep for your records. Failure to complete your GIMC renewal before Jan. 1 will incur additional fees per vehicle. TSNAmerica can help you maintain your authority, so you never have to worry about renewal deadlines! 

• 3. Base Plate: Georgia commercial license plates must be affixed to each non-apportioned vehicle (vehicles not part of the IRP that travel intrastate only).The Georgia base plates can be obtained from a local county tag office, part of the Georgia Department of Revenue. For vehicles weighing 55,000 lbs. or more, you will need to present your Stamped Schedule 1 from the IRS to obtain the tag and decal.
  
  This vehicle registration must be renewed annually. TSNAmerica can file for your Georgia base plate renewal each year, which means you’ve got one less thing to worry about! And if you ever need to make a one-time trip across state lines, TSNAmerica can obtain a temporary Georgia trip permit in lieu of registering for IRP.

Whether you’re trucking intrastate, interstate, or somewhere inbetween, Truck Services of North America is your go-to solution for immediate results. Between taxes, registrations, and permits, the truck drivers of America are saddled with far too much paperwork! That’s why we are dedicated to offering the fastest processing service in the business so that you can focus on what’s really important: the road!

Visit TSNAmerica.com and see all of the ways we can make your life easier! Then send us a Service Request Form, email us at support@TSNAmerica.com or call 803.386.0320.

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File Form 2290 Same Day via Phone

If you’re swamped and can’t find the time to file your 2290, then Truck Services of North America has just the thing for you! Our USA-based, personalized service is just a phone call away, and we’ll take care of everything for you—same day!

Form 2290, also known as Heavy Vehicle Use Tax, is filed annually with the IRS. Taxes are paid on any vehicles registered in your name that have a gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more and that will travel at least 5,000 miles on public roads during the tax period. The tax year for heavy vehicles begins on July 1st, and the filing due date for renewals is the end of August.

With the August 31st deadline coming up fast, Truck Services of North America can get you out of a bind! Just give us a call, and we’ll have your Schedule 1 back to you in minutes! You’ll just need a few documents on hand when you call:

• Business Contact Information: Must be what the IRS has on record, including the name, phone, and address.
• Employer Identification Number
• Vehicle Identification Numbers for all taxable vehicles
• Gross Vehicle Weights
• Payment Information: The IRS no longer accepts credit cards.

We’ll also ask if any of your vehicles are used for agriculture or logging, as this can affect tax rates. Then we’ll fax or email you Form 8453 to sign and send back to us via email, fax, or mail–whichever is most convenient for you. This gives us authorization to file with the IRS on your behalf.

Based on the information you provide, we’ll immediately file your Form 2290, and we’ll send you your Stamped Schedule 1 by mail, fax, or email. We can also send copies to your employer. Just one five minute phone call, and the rest is out of your hands!

Truck Services of North America makes taxes less taxing and cuts down on pesky paperwork. And we don’t just file 2290’s. We can also take care of Form 2290 Amendments and much more! To see the array of services we offer, visit TSNAmerica.com. Then send us a Service Request Form, email us at support@TSNAmerica.com or call 803.386.0320.

Get phone-filed and back on the road today!

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