How You Can Prepare For Hurricane Season

Every road veteran knows that it’s easy to find yourself stuck in inclement weather. Pop-up storms, blizzards, tornado warnings, and more can strike without a moment’s notice.

When you start the day a few states away in an area with perfect weather, it can be difficult to know what to expect along your route. Unfortunately, you can’t predict mother nature’s actions, but you can be prepared for when she strikes.

Hurricane Safety Tips For Truckers

Whether you are an over-the-road or a local driver, you should be prepared for any situation.

1. Prepare For High Winds

Before a hurricane hits, there will most likely be lots of strong winds, which is dangerous for drivers. Strong winds can pull and sometimes even flip your rig. If you are pulling dry vans or reefers, you are at a higher risk when it comes to high winds. Keep in mind that your rig can still be damaged even when parked.

2. Watch Out For Weather Warnings

Check weather conditions before and during your journey. Also, pay attention to weather warnings. If there is a state of emergency, you will want to take a different route or delaying shipment to affected areas. The U.S. Department of Transportations keeps track of road conditions and closing, so we highly recommend that you check there before pulling out.

3. Avoid High Water

This might seem like an obvious piece of advice, however, avoid driving through high water and don't assume that piles of debris are only branches. Hurricanes blow and float things around, so keep an eye on the oncoming road for any possible hazards. If you can’t see the road or you are unsure, stop your vehicles. The worst thing you can do it play through it. 

4. Bring Emergency Equipment

Whether you’re an over-the-road or local driver, you should carry emergency items in case you’re caught in a dire situation where these tools could save your life. Also if you find yourself stuck for a few hours or even a few days, these items could make a significant difference for your level of comfort.

Having bottles of water and non-perishable food items is essential. Canned food and packages of crackers will do the trick, just don’t forget your can opener. A fork may come in handy as well.

Bring an extra change of clothes and make sure you are switching out your change of clothes depending on the season. Always have a reflective vest so when you exit your truck others will see you.

With winter on its way, remember to have a hat that covers your ears, waterproof gloves, extra socks, and warm boots. Extra blankets are also great to have, including an electric one.

Other emergency items you should bring include:

• Utility knives 
• Flashlights 
• Batteries
• Extra phone battery or portable charger 
• Hand-crank radio
• Matches or a lighter
• Fully stocked first-aid kit
• Auxiliary power unit
• Portable heater
• Extra Fuel

Stay Safe Out There

Winter is coming, along with it hurricanes, storms, snow, and more! Be sure to be safe and prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store for us this season. Know what weather to expect during your routes and have the right tools in your cabin in the event of an emergency.

If you have more safety items to include or tips on how to drive a semi-truck sagely during inclement weather, please share them in the comment section below. For more trucking blogs click here and be sure to follow us on social for the latest news and trucking tips and tricks.

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Attention! Today is the IRS Form 2290 Deadline

ATTENTION ALL TRUCKERS! ATTENTION! Your Form 2290 for the 2018-19 is due by MIDNIGHT! Yes...MIDNIGHT TONIGHT! If you or a fellow driver has a rig registered in your name and haven’t filed Form 2290 yet, TSNAmerica is the perfect solution for last-minute filing. So trust me when I say you don’t have any time to waste, so for faster filing here is how to easily file Form 2290 for 2018 over the phone now.

How To Easily File Form 2290 for 2018 Over the Phone

The fastest way to complete your Form 2290 filing is by filing over the phone with one of our bilingual support representatives. Who knew that one phone call could stand in the way of you getting run over by IRS penalties and interest? Give us a call and receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 in just a matter of minutes via email. Here is how to get started:

To file IRS Form 2290 over the phone successfully you will need the following information. We suggest having your information on hand before calling: 

• Business Name & Address
• EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number 
• Gross Taxable Weight
• Authorized signatory details

Once you have this information on hand, give us a call at 803.386.0320 to handle your Form 2290 filing. Once you file your Form 2290 you will receive your stamped Schedule 1 via email in minutes. You will need your stamped Schedule 1 to register vehicles and to renew your rig’s tags. Trust me when I say you don’t want to be caught off guard with expired tags.

Note: Be sure to always keep a copy of Schedule 1 Form 2290. Without it, you will be unable to renew your tags at the DMV or register for IFTA, IRP, or UCR.

IRS Form 2290 Deadline Countdown



As you can see, there’s not much time left to file! Take a few minutes to find your information and file IRS Form 2290 over the phone with TSNAmerica.


File My Form 2290 for 2018 Now

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You Need To Know How To File 2290 Form 2018 by August 31st

The August 31st deadline for filing 2290 Form 2018 is coming at us full force. We have fastened our seatbelts and are ready for the race to deadline day but want to make sure you are prepared to file by the Form 2290 due date. Failing to file IRS Form 2290 will result in some pretty hefty penalties from the IRS that can easily be avoided when you file using TSNAmerica and obtain your Schedule 1 Form 2290. Today, we will provide you with a quick IRS Form 2290 crash course because, at the end of the day, you need to know how to file 2290 Form 2018 by August 31st.

You Need To Know How To File 2290 Form 2018 by August 31st

Filing IRS Form 2290 is not as hard as you may think, especially when you file over the phone with TSNAmerica. Before you rush to pick up the phone to call us, it is essential to know if you are required to file and what information is needed to successfully transmit your 2290 Form 2018 to the IRS. 

Who is Required to File

Owner-operators who have a vehicle with more than 55,000 pounds in gross weight must file a 2290 Form 2018. Filing this form and paying your heavy highway use taxes will also result in you receiving a Schedule 1 Form 2290. You must have this document to renew your tags with the DMV or register for IFTA, IRP, or UCR.

File IRS Form 2290 Today!

What is the Form 2290 Due Date?

IRS Form 2290 is due on *drumroll please*... THIS FRIDAY, AUGUST 31ST! Yes, you read correctly. You have until midnight on Friday to file.

IRS Form 2290 DeadlineCountdown

Information Needed To File

You’re going to love this part. You will only need five pieces of information to file a 2290 Form 2018. Take a few moments to gather the following information before giving us a call: 

1. Business Name & Address
2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)
3. VIN (Vehicle Identification Number
4. Gross Taxable Weight
5. Authorized Signatory Details

How To File Your 2290 Form 2018

Filing 2290 Form 2018 at the last minute is super easy. Why? Because when you give us a call at TSNAmerica, we file for you over the phone. After being greeted by one of our friendly US-based bilingual support team members, you will be prompted to provide the information need to file (listed above), and in just 5-10 minutes you will complete your annual filing requirements and receive a digital copy of your stamped Schedule 1 Form 2290 via email. It really is that simple!

Now that you know how to file 2290 Form 2018 give us a call today while you still have time! Our team is standing by ready to assist you so you can get back to what you enjoy most!

Call TSNAmerica Now

803.386.0320

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Warning! The IRS Form 2290 Due Date is Friday

Your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax is due Friday, August 31st! If you want to avoid severe IRS penalties and interest, you will need to file before midnight.

Whether you are having some trouble filing or simply don’t wanna visit the IRS office, give us a call and file over the phone! Don’t wait until the last moment. Get your Form 2290 filing out of the way with a quick 5-minute phone call.

File My 2290 Today

What is a 2290 Form in Trucking?

IRS Form 2290 is a federal tax form used to file Heavy Vehicle Use Tax, also known as HVUT. If your taxable motor vehicle weights more than 55,000 Ibs, is registered in your name, and travels on public highways you must file Form 2290.

The HVUT season runs from July 1 every year to the following June 30. After filing, you will receive a stamped Schedule 1, which acts as your proof of payment and must be kept in your truck for records. You will also need a current stamped Schedule 1 to renew your vehicle tags. Trust me you don’t want to be caught off guard by DOT.

Your 2017-2018 stamped Schedule 1 expired on June 30th. 

Filing Your HVUT Form 2290 Has Never Been Easier!

File it All Over The Phone Today!

Make the 5-minute phone call and receive your stamped Schedule 1 via email in a matter of minutes.

Before you hop on the phone here’s what you will need to make the process quick and easy:

• Business Name & Address
• EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number 
• Gross Taxable Weight
• Authorized signatory details

Our outstanding bilingual US-based support team will help you quickly file Form 2290 over the phone. The process is straightforward and will take less than 5 minutes. Give us the necessary information, and we will do the work for you. Once they have submitted your information to the IRS, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 via email.

TSNAmerica: 803.386.0320

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What You Need to Know About Vehicle Type For Form 2290

Heads up! Your Form 2290 due date is coming up fast, with no sign of slowing down. But have no fear – TSNAmerica is here to help with Form 2290 tips that will save you time and money. We don’t want you paying more than you have to.

Today we are looking at the different vehicle types for IRS Form 2290. Some vehicle types are eligible for extra credits, lower tax rates, or you could be exempt from the heavy use tax altogether.

Vehicle Types: Form 2290 For 2018

Before we get into the different 2290 vehicle types, let’s review who must file the heavy use tax.

If you own and operate a heavy vehicle with a gross weight or 55,000 Ibs or more you are required to file Form 2290 and receive a stamped Schedule 1. You can find your gross weight labeled at GVW on your Cab Card or inside the driver's side door jamb. This is the weight of your vehicle when it is unloaded. However, this will include any equipment or accessories you typically use on a haul.

Logging Vehicle

You might confuse the term “logging vehicle” with an ELD, however, for Form 2290 filing purposes these vehicles are used to…. Well… haul logs. So if your vehicle is used to haul wood or other products from the forest, it could classify, and this important because you can receive a reduced tax rate.

Ensure you are paying the correct tax amount by checking the IRS criteria for logging vehicles:
Your truck is exclusively used to transport material harvested from a forested site, or your vehicle is used solely to transport harvested materials from one forested location to another forested place. If your truck runs between forested sites, it can use public highways in between those sites and still be considered a logging vehicle.

AND

Your vehicle is registered in your base state (or any other state in which it is required to be registered) as a highway motor vehicle used exclusively for the transport of harvested materials from a forested site. Although the truck must be registered as a “logging vehicle” in your state, no special tag or license plate is required to identify the vehicle as a logging vehicle.

Harvested Material: According to the IRS guidelines, harvested products can include any raw timber taken from a forest OR any timber that has been processed on the forested site for commercial processes, meaning the timber has already been sawed into lumber, chipped, or milled in some way.

Agricultural Vehicles

Vehicles typically required to file the road tax 2290 are those with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 Ibs and travel over 5,000 miles on public highways through the current tax period. However, to give farmers and suppliers a break, the IRS requirements are slightly more lenient for vehicles used to transport agricultural products. Those vehicles that qualify regardless of their weight are allowed to drive up to 7,500 miles on public highways each tax period before having to pay the heavy highway use tax.

However, this does not exempt any vehicles from Form 2290 filing. If your vehicle's gross weight exceeds 55,000 lbs, you will still need to receive a stamped Schedule 1 Form 2290.

Ensure you are paying the correct tax amount by checking the IRS criteria for agricultural vehicles:
The vehicle is used primarily for farming purposes throughout the tax year. However, what does the IRS consider “primarily for farming purposes?” It’s quite simple. More than half of the vehicle’s total mileage for the year must be used for farming purposes. Also, a farming purpose, according to the IRS, is any activity that contributes to the conduct of a farm. This can include activities such as transporting goods to and from a farm (goods like livestock, produce, animal feed, fertilizer, etc.), direct use in agricultural production, or just performing work around the farm like repairing fences, building irrigation ditches, clearing land, etc.

AND

The vehicle is registered as an agricultural vehicle in your state. Although your vehicle must be registered as such, no special license plates or tags marked “agriculture” are required to maintain your status as an agricultural vehicle. If your vehicle meets both of these requirements above, then you can file as an agricultural vehicle with a higher mileage limit.

If you file your agricultural vehicle as a Suspended (Category W) at the beginning of the tax period but then exceed the 7,500-mile limit, you will need to submit a Form 2290 Amendment for a Milage Increase. The Form 2290 Amendment is due by the end of the month following the month you exceeded the mileage limit. After filing the Amendment, the IRS will prorate your heavy highway use tax for the remaining months of the tax year. This means that even though you will owe some tax, it will not be for the full amount you would have owed.

Suspended Vehicles

A suspended or credit vehicle is a highway motor vehicle that is expected to travel 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles) during the tax period. This mileage limit applies to the total amount of miles it’s driven on the road, regardless of the number of owners.

Other suspended or credited vehicles include those that were sold, destroyed, or stolen and they must all be reported on your 2290. If they exceed the mileage limit during the tax period, then you’ll owe HVUT for them.

Exempt Vehicles

Vehicles that are exempt from the HVUT don’t need to be filed for, regardless of how many miles they travel. They’re 100% exempt from the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax! A few HVUT exempt vehicles include qualified blood collector vehicles, mobile machinery used for non-transportation purposes, heavy vehicles used by the federal government, and more

When is The Form 2290 Due Date?

You must complete your Form 2290 filing by the last day of the month following the first use month during the current tax year. The typical trucking tax year is July 1, 2018, to June 30, 2019. If your tax period stated in July of last year your Schedule 1 Form 2290 will be due on August 31st.

Form 2290 Filing Made Easy

Give us a call at 803.386.0320 for the easiest way to file your IRS Form 2290. Our outstanding bilingual support team will file Form 2290 while you are on the phone. The process is a straightforward 5-minute phone call, and as a result, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 via email.

Start My Form 2290 Filing

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Form 2290 Penalties You Need to Know About

Your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) IRS Form 2290 is due this month! This means you are officially running out of time to file by the August 31st deadline. If you fail to file and/or pay your owed HVUT tax amount, you will wind up with severe IRS penalties and interest.

However, don’t hit the panic button quite yet– TSNAmerica is here to help you file over the phone and receive your stamped Schedule 1 in minutes.

 

Form 2290 Filing Penalties You Can Expect

If you fail to file your IRS Form 2290 by the deadline or not at all, you will be penalized 4.5% of your total 2290 tax amount. After that, your penalty amount will increase on a monthly basis for up to five months.

If you fail to pay your 2290 tax by the deadline you’ll face a monthly fee of 0.5%. On top of all of that, you will face an additional interest charge of .54%. These penalties will make the amount you owe the IRS skyrocket!

If you don’t file by the deadline, or if you fail to file at all, then you won’t have a copy of your stamped Schedule 1, which serves as proof of payment. You need your stamped Schedule 1 to register new vehicles and to renew your vehicle tags with the DMV. Without it, you’ll be operating illegally. If pulled over, your vehicle will be placed out of service, ticketed, and your registration may be suspended.

Now if you forget to file your HVUT, don’t panic. You may not be penalized if you can show reasonable cause for filing late, or why your payment is late. Simply file as soon as you can and attach an explanation for filing late to your return. The IRS will then either accept or reject your explanation as a reasonable cause. There are also penalties for filing fraudulent or false returns.

Thankfully all of this can be avoided when you file over the phone with TSNAmerica!

When you choose TSNAmerica, we will file your IRS Form 2290 over the phone for you. Give us a call at 803.386.0320 and talk to one of our friendly US-based bilingual support team members.

Once we have your business and truck information, we will file your IRS Form 2290 on your behalf. You will then receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 in just a matter of minutes via email.

Call TSNAmerica and File My IRS Form 2290:

803.386.0320

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Upcoming Truck Inspection Dates You Need To Know

Just when you think we are out of the woods, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) announces another inspection. If your rig is still operational, it is safe to assume you survived the CVSA Roadcheck 2018 last month. Here are the upcoming truck inspection dates you need to know.

Upcoming Truck Inspection Dates You Need To Know

CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Week

July 15-21, 2018

During this weeklong trucking blitz, enforcement personnel will be on the lookout for unsafe commercial and passenger vehicle drivers. Meaning the focus this year will be on traffic violations, seat belt enforcement, driver roadside inspections, and driver regulatory compliance.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) “Large Truck Crash Causation Study” states that “driver behavior is the critical reason for more than 88 percent of large truck crashes and 93 percent of passenger vehicle crashes.”

Driving behaviors that will be targeted during this blitz will include speeding, distracted driving, texting, failure to wear a seat belt, following too closely, lane change violations, failure to obey traffic lights, and more.

Last year 39,000 citations and warnings were issued to drivers during the Operation Safe Driver Week.

CVSA’s Brake Safety Week 

Sept 16-22, 2018

CVSA enforcement officers will conduct roadside Level I inspections on commercial motor vehicles during this weeklong blitz. Inspectors will focus on brake components, including loose or missing parts; air or hydraulic fluid leaks, rotor conditions, pushrod travel, air chamber sizes, air reservoirs, and other brake components. If the officer finds critical brake violations, your rig will be placed out of service immediately.

The CVSA stated in a press release, “Properly functioning brake systems are crucial to safe CMV operation. Brakes must be routinely inspected and carefully and consistently maintained, so they operate and perform to the manufacturer’s specifications throughout the life of the vehicle. Improperly installed or poorly maintained brake systems can reduce braking efficiency, posing a serious risk to public safety on our roadways.”

Last year 14% of trucks inspected during the one-day brake safety blitz were placed out of service for critical brake violations.

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The IRS Form 2290 Filing Season is Here!

If you are an owner-operator with a registered heavy highway use vehicle in your name, you are required to file IRS Form HVUT to receive your stamped Schedule 1. July 1st marks the start of the IRS Form 2290 filing season. You can now submit your IRS Form 2290 and receive your stamped Schedule 1 in just a matter of minutes.

The IRS Form 2290 Filing Season is Here!

You will need to enter the following information to start your Form 2290 filing:

• Business Name & Address
• EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number 
• Gross Taxable Weight
• Authorized signatory details

If you are going to pay the IRS via direct debit, be sure to have your routing and account number ready.

Please Note: Even though it is titled the Employer Identification Number, you must have one for Form 2290 filing. You will not be able to use your SSN (Social Security Number) to file your road tax 2290.
When you choose TSNAmerica to file your IRS Form 2290, we will file over the phone for you. Give us a call at 803.386.0320 and talk to one of our friendly US-based bilingual support team members.

Once we have your business and truck information, we will file your IRS Form 2290 on your behalf. You will then receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 in just a matter of minutes via email.

Call TSNAmerica and File My IRS Form 2290:

803.386.0320

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Everything You Need to Know About Form 2290 Filing

Tax season is barreling down the highway, so buckle up, because it’s not stopping. If your vehicle’s first used month was July then your HVUT Form 2290 due date is coming up. Don’t let this major deadline pass you by! Here is everything you need to know about Form 2290 filing.

Everything You Need to Know About Form 2290 Filing

Before we get into your Form 2290 filing, let’s go over what your heavy highway use tax is for those new to the industry. So who is required to file IRS Form 2290? If you are an Owner-Operator with a vehicle with more than 55,000 Ibs in gross weight, then Form 2290 filing applies to you.

You will need to file HVUT Form 2290 and pay taxes to receive your stamped Schedule 1. But why is this important? Well, without this little piece of paper you will be unable to renew your tags at the DMV or registration for IFTA, IRP, or UCR.

Your stamped Schedule 1 is your proof of payment for the heavy highway use tax. Once the IRS receives and approves your IRS Form 2290, you will get your stamped Schedule 1. When you file over the phone with TSNAmerica, the IRS will email your Schedule 1 with a digital watermark.

You will want to keep a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 in your truck at all times. If you are crossing international borders (Canada), the border patrol will check that you have a current stamped Schedule 1 before allowing you back into the US.

TSNAmerica: 803.386.0320

Form 2290 Filing Made Easy

Give us a call at 803.386.0320 for the easiest way to file your IRS Form 2290. Our outstanding bilingual support team will file Form 2290 while you are on the phone. The process is a straightforward 5-minute phone call, and as a result, you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 via email.

Start My Form 2290 Filing

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You Need to Know What The Senate DOT Bill Contained

The DOT bill released by the U.S. Appropriations Committee did not contain any trucking policy reform such as the ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate and Denham Amendment. The bill passed but the Senate Appropriations Committee differs from its counterpart passed by the House Committee. So what was included? You need to know what the Senate DOT bill contained.

You Need to Know What The Senate DOT Bill Contained

The bill passed by the U.S. House included the proposed changes to the ELD mandate for livestock haulers. It also prevented the Safety Fitness Determination (SFD) rule without the implementation of the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program.

Unlike the House bill, the Senates does not heavily impact the trucking industry. It mainly focuses on general litigation and FMCSA mandated deadlines.

The Senate Appropriations Committee did direct the DOT to evaluate the needs of livestock drivers in relations to the ELD mandate further. The plan passed by the U.S. House extended the ELD exemption for both livestock and insect haulers to September 2019. The Senate committee stated that lawmakers should “consult with stakeholders, the Department of Agriculture and Congress on legislative solutions for drivers with unique working conditions.”

The current DOT funding expires at the end of September, however, the Senate has not set a date for considering the bill. Once consideration begins in the Senate, legislatures can add trucking reforms during the amendment process. The U.S. House has yet to bring the DOT appropriations bill to the floor as well.

If the two governing bodies pass a different version of the bill, the lawmakers will enter a conference committee to produce a finalized bill. This will then be passed again by the respective governing bodies. Any trucking reform that is attached would be subject to intense review during the committee process. 

We want to hear from you! Click here to share. Let us know your thoughts on the DOT bill!

For more trucking news and information click here.

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What You Need to Know About the Denham Amendment 2018

The Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) reauthorization 2018 bill passed through the House on April 26, 2018, and included an amendment that will affect all within the trucking industry. The Denham-Cuellar-Costa Amendment simply known as the Denham Amendment has received very mixed reactions from those within the trucking industry. Here is what you need to know about the Denham Amendment 2018.

What You Need to Know About the Denham Amendment 2018

Sponsored by U.S. House representatives Jeff Denham (R-Cali), Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), and Jim Costa (D-Cali), the Denham Amendment will provide standardized meal and rest breaks for truckers. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) believe that the amendment will streamline interstate commerce by further federalizing the hours-of-service rules and regulations. However, on the other end of the spectrum, you have the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), they believe the Denham Amendment is a threat to drivers fair pay and breaks.

What Does The Denham Amendment Mean?

Before we get into the current industry fight, we will review the facts about the Denham Amendment and how it will affect you. In summary, the amendment will prevent an individual state from setting their own rules and regulations. All drivers will need to abide by the Department of Transportation’s (DOTs) hours-of-service by federal law.

Under the current federal hours-of-service regulations, drivers are required to take a 20-minute break after driving for eight hours. This means drivers can now work longer hours without taking breaks and without violating state laws.
For example, California requires a 10-minute break for every four hours driven and a 30-minute meal break for every five working hours. The new hours-of-service will be enforced using a mandated Electronic Logging Device (ELD).

ATA Vs. OOIDA

So what do both parties want regarding the Denham Amendment?:

American Trucking Associations (ATA):

• They want unified regulations that will not hamper interstate commerce.
• ATA believes productivity will rise with the Denham Amendment since drivers can continue driving to meet shipment times.
• This will cause less confusion when crossing into new jurisdictions.

Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA):

• They believe this will deter drivers from taking much-needed breaks, potentially causing accidents and a decrease in productivity.
• Under the Denham Amendment drivers wages will be standardized as well because companies will not be required to meet state-imposed minimum wages. 

We want to hear from you! Click here to share. Let us know your thoughts on the Denham Amendment. Do you like that the hours-of-service will be standardized between state lines or do you believe it will negatively affect your pay/breaks?


For more trucking news and information click here.

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New IRS Form 2290 Payment Options

Have You Heard About the New IRS Form 2290 Payment Options?

It may be hard to believe, but it’s already time to start filing your 2018-19 2290! If you’re currently thinking, “Wait, 2290 season doesn’t start until July?” then you would be correct, partially. Since we’ve worked hand-in-hand with the IRS for more than ten years now, we are excited to offer IRS Form 2290 filing for the 2018-19 tax year ahead of schedule. This is exclusive for ExpressTruckTax customers so you can get back to enjoying time with your family instead of worrying about filing your 2290 tax form.

IRS Payment Methods for Form 2290

When you file Form 2290 over the phone with TSNAmerica, all you have to do it give us your information and we will file on your behalf in a matter of minutes. When it is time to pay you can choose between 3 different payment options based on the most convenient method for you.

Direct Debit or Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW)

Provide your banking information (account and routing number) through TSNAmerica’s safe and secure system to authorize the IRS to debit the amount you owe from your bank account. It is important that your account has enough funds to cover the amount you owe.

The amount is generally withdrawn in 24 to 48 hours after providing authorization. Keep in mind that this involves your banking information, not your credit/debit card number.

If you need to cancel your payment contact IRS payment services at 1.888.353.4537 at least 2 days before the payment date.

EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System) is the electronic tax payment system used by the IRS. If you choose this payment option you will be taken to the EFTPS site, and you’ll create a free account. Please keep in mind that it can take up to 10 business days to establish this type of account.

To pay the IRS through EFTPS, you will provide your bank account information and verify that the IRS is allowed to withdraw your tax payment from that account. In order to make your payment by the deadline, you must schedule it before 8 p.m. the day before the deadline for it to be received by the IRS in time.

Direct Debit or Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW)

You can also pay the amount of HVUT you owe with a Check or Money Order. If you choose this option you will need to print your completed payment voucher, 2290-V, from page 11 of your completed 2290 Form and mail to the IRS by the August 31st deadline.

Make your check or money order payable to the United States Treasury. Also, you will need to include your name, address, EIN, the date, and the words “IRS Form 2290” with your payment.

Do not staple your payment and voucher together.

Send your payment and voucher 2290-V to:
Internal Revenue Service
P.O. Box 804525,
Cincinnati, OH 45280-4525

Remember, never send cash through the mail.

Important: If you have already paid your HVUT via Direct Debit or EFW and received a letter from the IRS saying they were unable to debit the funds there are a few likely causes:

- Your account and routing number were entered into ExpressTruckTax incorrectly. Even entering one character incorrectly will prevent the IRS from being able to withdraw the amount you owe.
- The IRS tried to debit your account, but you had insufficient funds. If you are even as little as 50 cents short then the IRS will not debit the funds.

If you receive a letter from the IRS saying they could not withdraw the funds from the bank account provided then you will need to send a check or money order to the IRS in order to pay the amount you owe by the August 31st deadline.

File Form 2290 Over The Phone Today!

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How to Get an HVUT Refund With Form 8849?

Congrats! You finally got out of the old hunker of a rig, and now you drive a brand new shiny truck that’s from this century.

But you paid your 2290 for the truck before you sold it and now you’re out $500.

Well, what if I told you could get that money back? Some may call it magic, others call TSNAmerica.

When we file a Form 8849 on your behalf for you're sold/destroyed/stolen vehicle, we’ll help you get your paid 2290 tax fee back.

Unsure? Let me give you some background on the form and how we can do it.

Form 8849

To put it simply, Form 8849 is designed to let the IRS know that you’ve sold your truck, or that it was destroyed or stolen and the taxes you paid on it should be returned for it that you need back.

Your previous truck is considered exempt so that tax money should come back to you.

How Does That Work?

That’s simple too! To get money back with Form 8849, just give TSNAmerica a call.

Be ready to provide us with your correct name and address ready, also your EIN, the vehicle’s information, and when it was sold/destroyed/stolen. Then let us do the rest.

One More Time for Clarity

Your sold, stolen, or destroyed vehicle is worth money if you paid your HVUT Form 2290 before selling it.

All you need to do to get a refund back on the taxes for that truck is to give us a call and let us help you.

So what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone and call TSNAmerica at 803.386.0320. We’ll be glad to help you get the money back that you deserve.

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Advanced HVUT Form 2290 Online Filing is Here!

It is that time of year again! It is time to file your IRS Form 2290 and receive your shiny new stamped Schedule 1. Instead of waiting around until the last moment how about filing your HVUT Form 2290 in advance? There is no need to pay your taxes now you have all summer for that, but you can quickly get IRS filing out of the way. Focus on growing your business this summer now that advanced HVUT Form 2290 online filing is here.

Advanced HVUT Form 2290 Online Filing is Here!

Before we get too far, let me explain a little more about advanced HVUT Form 2290 filing. Advanced filing is more or less the same as e-filing your return; the only difference is that your return is filed and transmitted before July 1st. The IRS starts accepting Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes beginning on July 1st and runs until the deadline on September 3rd.

However, with advanced filing, you can skip the call waiting and file your return today. When the IRS opens, TSNAmerica will automatically transmit your forms. You will be among the first to receive your stamped Schedule 1.

However, you should note that if you file your HVUT Form 2290 in advance, you will need to mail your tax payment to the IRS via check or money order by September 3rd.

Who Can File IRS Form 2290 in Advance?

That is a good question with a straightforward answer. Everyone! You can file your HVUT tax in advance and renew your Schedule 1 for your heavy use vehicle with a gross weight of 55,000 or more ( 7,500 miles for agricultural vehicles).

When Should I File?

You can file in advance right now! I know that you don’t like filing your taxes (honestly the only people that get excited about tax time are CPA’s). However, when you file in advance, you don’t have to worry about it again until July 2020. Also, who wants the IRS breathing down their neck when the deadline is fast approaching?


Don't believe that myth about filing your HVUT tax in advance:

YOU DON'T HAVE TO PAY WHEN YOU FILE!!


Call us today and file over the phone. It is that simple!

Our US-based support team is waiting on the other end of this line for your call. Don’t keep us waiting too long or you will miss out on some fantastic discounts and giveaways. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

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What You Need to Know to be a Successful Owner-Operator

Trucking is a competitive industry that millions of people try to break into every year. Also, many truckers seek to make the transition from truck driver to owner-operator, and unfortunately a lot of them fail. This is a major decision that should not be taken lightly. Whether you are a rookie or seasoned vet, you have dreamed of owning your own big rig. So before you jump headfirst, here is what you need to know to be a successful owner-operator.

What You Need to Know to be a Successful Owner-Operator

So you are transitioning from a company driver to a free and independent owner-operator. Before you splurge on a shiny new rig, there are several things you need to consider and should know.

1. You Need a Boat Load of Money 🛥️

That’s right. To start off you will need a lot of cold hard cash.

The biggest investment you will need to prepare for will, of course, be your truck. It is a good idea to put down a decent down payment toward financing or to lease your truck. A large down payment will keep your monthly payments more affordable. Also, this will help you when you apply for a loan and give you more options with a lower interest rate.

In addition to your truck, you will need money for starting out. You will need money for expenses such as food, lodging, fuel, oil changes, and any unexpected repairs.

If you are planning to charge these expenses on a credit card I highly encourage you to reconsider. Remember that they do come with interest and if they remain unpaid for an extended amount of time your credit will be affected. And on that note let's move on to my next point.

2. You Need to Have Good Credit

Not having solid credit is a mistake most owner-operators make when starting their trucking business. If you have a poor credit rating, there are still several financing companies that will give you a loan for a new truck. However, many lose their truck because of personal financial situations and/or continued poor spending habits.

As a business owner, your success will largely be determined by your time and money management. 

3. You Need a Reliable Business and Tax Advise

Before you start your trucking business, it is always a good idea to seek out professional advice. They will help with planning, organization, and education. It is always useful to talk to a fellow driver in preparation; however, there is a lot at stake when you start your own trucking business. 

4. You Need to be Single or Have a Solid Relationship

This is a point that many don’t take into full consideration when becoming an owner-operator. The time spent away from your family, and significant other can lead to any number of problems. If you don’t have a solid relationship the time spent apart can spell trouble and the time spent away from small children can be devastating.

Being an owner-operator is hard on families so before you start down this road consider what is important to you. This could lead to financial stability but this is a decision that should not be taken lightly.

Comment down below and share this blog with new truckers. Visit TSNAmerica for more trucking news and information.

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How To File Your HVUT Form 2290 Now!

It may be hard to believe, but it’s already almost time for you to start filing those 2290's! If you’re currently thinking, “Wait, 2290 season doesn’t start until July?” then you would be correct -- kind of. But TSNAmerica does the unthinkable…

That’s right; you can file your 2290's now!

How Do I File Form 2290?

That’s easy -- just give us a call at 803.386.0320 and talk to one of our friendly, US-based support team members. Once we get your truck information and everything we need to file your 2290 on your behalf, and you can just sit back and relax.

On July 1, once the tax season officially opens up, we’ll transmit your return to the IRS for you. And as soon as they accept it, we’ll email you your stamped Schedule 1.

After that, you’re good to go until July of 2019!

What are the Benefits of Filing Form 2290 Today?

• Filing before July 1st gives you more time (two months worth!) to amend your return if it gets rejected or if you make a mistake.
• Filing today doesn’t mean you have to prepay your taxes! You won’t have to pay any taxes until July 1 if you choose to pay with Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW). And if you choose to pay by check or money order, you'll have until August 31! That's almost four full months to save up for your taxes.
• You can still use the same three payment methods you’re used to: Direct Debit (EFW), EFTPS, and Check/Money Order.
• Your return will be at the very top of the stack when the IRS begins processing returns on July 1. This means you’ll get your Stamped Schedule 1 before anyone else, too!
• Then you can get back to your life! After you give us a call, we’ll take it from there. We will securely transmit your return to the IRS for you and then email you your Schedule 1.

Seriously, what are you waiting for? Stop worrying about those pesky 2290's today and don't think about it until next July by giving us a quick call today at 803.386.0320!

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Learn To Save On Enormous Trucking Expenses

Driving a rig comes with major trucking expenses, which is why new owner-operators can fail before they even get started. You have to plan before starting your trucking career because it’s not something you can fake until you make it.

New drivers don’t have instant, overnight success, but by taking the time to create a business plan that accurately reflects your expenses you can make it as a successful road warrior. Check out major trucking expenses your business can save on.

Learn To Save On Enormous Trucking Expenses 

Lodging and Meals

Life on the road is expensive. Buying fast food and sleeping in motels can quickly add up. Instantly save on lodging costs by options to sleep in your rig. With comfortable bedding, you’ll sleep like a baby.

Then make the healthy, cost-effective choice to cook in your rig. By having a few groceries to cook your own dinners you’ll quickly save tons of money. You can also purchase your snacks in bulk and take them with you on the road. This way you don’t have to buy expensive options every time you get hungry.

Don’t forget to accurately calculate your Per Diem, the daily deduction for life on the road. This will give you a lot of money back at the end of the year when you file your personal tax return, or you can use the TAP app to handle it all for you.

Fuel

Fuel is your number one expense, so it’s pretty beneficial to learn how to save. Sure, you can get paid more to travel more miles, but you will also cut the major expense of fuel by simply slowing down a little. You will save about 27% of fuel by going 65 mph instead of 75.

Also, it’s good to gradually speed up and come to slow stops instead of mashing the pedal and slamming on your breaks. Reduce idling time as much as you can at truck stops, but still, make sure your truck warms up.

Plus, it’s good to avoid rush hour traffic and heavily congested areas that will have you stuck in stop and go traffic for hours. Try to drive at night or plan routes that avoid downtown areas.

Maintenance

You can’t truck without your beloved truck! You need to take care of it now to prevent expensive problems from popping up later. Trust us, by taking the time to take care of your truck now, you’ll save time, money, and hassle.

Don’t skip out on the little things such as checking your fluid levels, looking at your belts and tubes for signs of wear and cracks, get your tires rotated, change your oil, and more. If your truck breaks down, you won’t know how long you’ll be without it and your income will be put on hold until you can make deliveries again.

Take Care of Yourself

You need to be able to drive your truck to make loads. You can’t do that if you’re injured or sick. Be sure to get the proper nutrition to fight off colds and get the proper exercise to prevent yourself from developing health conditions.

Trucking can lead to an extremely unhealthy lifestyle if you let it, and you don’t want to foot the insurance bills due to developing conditions like sleep apnea, heart diseases, cancer, and more. Take every opportunity to move around and make healthy eating decisions whenever you can.

Happy Truckin’

Trucking is one of the most rewarding careers out there, even though it’s expensive and can take a while to get your business off the ground. With the right preparation and persistent hard work, you’ll make it up there with the top road veterans!

Share your tips for sharing on trucking expenses in the comment section below and visit TSNAmerica or more trucking blogs.

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Don't Drive Like A Trucking Rookie

Truck drivers deserve a lot of respect, but it’s not just because they carry keys to a big rig around. You quickly notice that the truckers who know what they’re doing have the most respect. It’s the super truckers with decades of driving experience under their belts.

Even guys who have been on the road for about three years can look like rookies to seasoned professionals. If you want the ultimate respect, then you have to earn it by gaining real experience and by not making rookie mistakes. Check out our tips on how to avoid looking like a trucking rookie.

Don't Drive Like A Trucking Rookie

Don’t Drive Distracted

One important thing to do is avoid driving distracted. Respectable drivers take safety for themselves and all other people on the road incredibly seriously. If you’re holding a phone, typing something in or your GPS, or reading a book, then your eyes aren’t on the road.

Type in your destination before you get rolling and use a Bluetooth device to make your phone hands free. If you can’t resist using your phone put it in your glove box while you drive or consider switching to a less time demanding profession.

Research Directions

These days rookies are using their iPhones to get directions, which can lead to problems because those routes aren’t specifically for trucks. They can lead drivers through crowded downtown areas and through rush hour traffic.

Use a GPS and a trucking software like ProMiles to plan your best route, then don’t follow it blindly. Use google maps to make sure it isn’t taking you through a crowded city. Plus, you can use the satellite images to look at the shipping facility to learn where to go and avoid circling it 5 to 6 times.

Take Responsibility

Guys who aren’t respected are the ones who blame everyone and everything else for their own actions. Know your own limits and don’t drive past them. If you’re tired that’s the equivalent to driving drunk. Never drive past your HOS and take brakes if you need to.

Also, represent yourself well. That means presenting yourself well by wearing jeans and a nicer shirt like a button-down or a polo. There’s no need to wear pajama pants and slides all the time.

Speak to other drivers and all members of the trucking industry with respect. Don’t curse and avoid speaking with profanity. Everything will come back on your record as you build your trucking reputation.

Think About Your Actions

You can't just drive a semi in autopilot mode. You have to be aware of your actions and surroundings at all times. If you make mistakes like failing to use your turn signal it could really end up costing you. Be sure to be conscious and courteous of traffic around you.

Also, go the speed limit. We understand that driving faster to get more miles can help your bottom line, but slowing down is more fuel-efficient. Plus, you don’t want to deal with a cop who pulls you for speeding.

Take your time while turning to make sure you have enough room to avoid hitting objects or other vehicles. Hitting or running over curbs can weaken your tires, making it easier for them to blow.

When it comes to backing up take your time. This can be tricky to master, but you’ll get more respect for taking your time than rushing and hitting something. When in doubt or if you cant see remember GOAT. Get Out And Look! Never nose in, it's a huge rookie mistake that makes it difficult to back out.

If you have rookie driving mistakes to avoid please add them to the comment section below and Visit TSNAmerica for more trucking blogs.

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Trucking Is The Most Dangerous Industry

It’s no secret that the road is an incredibly dangerous place. Not only for truckers but for all drivers. We’re tired of hearing about our nation’s truckers making early trips to the golden highway, but unfortunately, truck driving to the most dangerous profession in the nation.

The government’s workplace fatality census reported that truck driving is the most dangerous job, so we’re hoping to help improve conditions by spreading information on the dangers included with the trucking occupation.

The Dangers Of Trucking

Driving Distracted

You know what’s pretty entraining? Our Smartphones. In fact, they’re so much fun that some drivers can’t resist playing on them while on the road. When they are tweeting, taking pictures, posting updates, and more behind the wheel their eyes aren’t on the road, creating extremely dangerous situations.

Be sure to put your phone down or keep it in your pocket until you’re safely parked. To make or answer calls while driving, use a hands-free device. Also, other causes of distracted driving include reading, applying makeup, fixing your hair, eating, rubbernecking, messing with your radio or navigation system, and more.

Driving While Exhausted

Trucking can really tire people out, so make sure you get enough rest. Driving tired is the equivalent of driving drunk. Your reaction time, judgment and vision become impaired. Driving tired can also decrease performance and vigilance while increasing aggression. Be sure to sleep 7 to 8 hours a night and take naps if you get tired.

Sometimes drivers have sleep apnea, the silent killer, without even knowing it. If you wake up with headaches, feeling exhausted, confused, or out of breath considered getting screened for sleep apnea. Correcting this issue could greatly improve your quality of life. You can actually take a quick, free, sleep apnea test online with Aeroflow.

Having An Unhealthy Lifestyle

Truck stops can have some strange sites sometimes. Including drivers who look like they’re popping out of their jeans like a can of biscuits. This is because you can gain weight so rapidly in the trucking industry that you quickly grow out of your clothes before you notice. Having a poor diet and lack of exercise can really put your health at risk.

Obesity leads to conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attacks, heart disease, sleep apnea, and more. However, you don’t have to give into an unhealthy trucking lifestyle.

For example, you can find healthier food options on the road by opting for grilled chicken salads or salmon with nutritious snacks like boiled eggs or nuts. Fast food options even have all sorts of fresh wraps and fruit. Also, get rid of soda for green tea options and black coffee.

Then don’t let sitting too much become the death of you. Try to move around whenever you can. Take extra laps around your truck or around the truck. You can also take a few free weights and resistant bans in your rig to squeeze in a few calorie-burning workouts here and there.

Stay Safe!

We wish we were reporting on happier news, but trucker safety is incredibly important. The best way to educate people is by spreading awareness. However, we’re happy to announce that the rate of trucker fatalities is decreasing annually.

By teaming up in the trucking industry to practice safer driving and healthier habits the mortality rate will decrease even more! Please visit TSNAmerica for more trucking blogs and share your safety tips in the comment section below.

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The 4th Quarter IFTA Deadline is Almost Here

Hey, trucking nation! We hope you’re staying safe and warm out there. This winter has been one for the books so far. However, while navigating your trips around harsh winter storms don’t forget that tax season is here!

You know what's even harder than staying warm? Explaining to the IRS why you missed important tax deadlines! That’s why you shouldn’t let the 4th quarter IFTA deadline on January 31st sneak up on you.

The 4th Quarter IFTA Deadline is Almost Here

Because the 4th quarter IFTA due date is less than a month away, we’re here to help you prepare to file. In case you need a little refreshing, IFTA is the International Fuel Tax Agreement that was put in place by the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces.

The purpose of IFTA was to simplify the reporting of fuel use by qualified motor vehicles traveling between two or more jurisdictions. The taxes collected are equally redistributed among each participating jurisdiction.

Your vehicle qualifies for IFTA if it:

• Has two axles and a gross vehicle weight exceeding 26,000 pounds
• Has two axles and a registered gross weight of 26,000 pounds 
• Has three or more axles regardless of weight 
• Or has a combination weight exceeding 26,000 pounds. 

To comply with IFTA you will need to apply for your IFTA license with your jurisdiction or state where your vehicle is registered. Then keep it in your cab at all times. You will also receive two IFTA decals that you will need to keep on your driver’s side door. Plus, you have to file your IFTA return four times a year.

The following information is required to complete your IFTA return:

• Total miles traveled per jurisdiction 
• Total gallons of fuel consumed per jurisdiction 
• Total tax paid gallons of fuel purchased per jurisdiction 
• And the current tax rate per jurisdiction. 

If you fail to file your IFTA return you will have some expensive IFTA penalties to deal with. For example, if you don’t file by the deadline you will face a penalty of $50 or 10% of the total fuel tax you owe, depending on which amount is more.

On top of that, you will face a monthly penalty of .4167% of the total amount of IFTA tax you owe until you pay the amount in full. Your base jurisdiction also reserves the right to impose their own penalties and revoke your IFTA license and we know you don’t want that!

ExpressIFTA Is Your IFTA Reporting Solution

At TSNAmerica we have your back to help you easily prepare your IFTA report to file by the deadline. Simply check out our sister, ExpressIFTA to easily import and track all the information you need to complete your IFTA return online in one convenient location.

The process is quick and easy! You can import all of your data at once with the bulk upload feature or even directly upload all of your mileage information right from your GPS. However, you can also keep detailed trip sheet entries. ExpressIFTA lets you handle your reporting at your own pace.

Then at the end of each quarter, all of your totals will be automatically calculated in an easy to read IFTA report. Your IFTA report can be downloaded, printed, emailed, and used to instantly complete your return!

Visit ExpressIFTA for more information.

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The Winter Emergency Equipment Truckers Should Carry

What a winter we’re having. It’s really started off with a bang, causing record-breaking freezes all over the nation. New York has been below freezing for days and snow is seriously pounding the east coast. Even Georgia is getting iced over.

You have to be careful out there trucking through these serious winter conditions and we hope you’re able to stay safe and warm. You never know what to really expect from mother nature may throw at you, so make sure you’re prepared in the event of an emergency.

Winter Emergency Equipment Truckers Should Carry

It’s extremely important to have extra clothes with you to stay warm and dry, especially during the winter. You will need an extra coat, hat, socks, and gloves. Make sure that these items are waterproof and functional so you’ll be able to make repairs with your gear on.

You will also want a lightweight jacket, sweaters, and a heavier insulated coat. This will give you the ability to wear layers so you will be able to stay warmer. You will also be able to remove layers if you feel too hot.

Last but not least, while packing extra clothes, don’t forget about extra underwear. It will really come in handy if you get stuck somewhere for a few days.

Make sure you have enough blankets. You could even carry an electric one with you to stay extra warm. A hot and dry place to sleep could make a major difference after a long day.

Make sure you’re prepared with enough food and water if you get stuck somewhere for a few days. Take non-perishable foods like canned items and beef jerky. Just don’t forget the can opener.

Also, carry matches or a lighter to create a fire if you need to, but have a fire extinguisher to put out unwanted flames. Another great safety tool to have is a multi-purpose utility knife with a seatbelt cutter and point to break glass.

Remember to have a good first aid kit on hand as well. It should have antibacterial ointment, bandages, scissors, band-aids, and baby wipes. You could keep some aspirin for emergencies too.

No one likes o be without their electronics, especially during an emergency. That’s why you should have extra batteries for your phone, flashlight, and more. You should also have a hand crank radio and solar-powered chargers for your favorite devices.

If you have things you can’t go a day without like daily medication or coffee, be sure to take an extra amount with you during your trip so you won’t run out during an emergency. Plus, daily hygiene items to keep you looking and smelling fresh are great to have.

Winter is dark so if you get in an accident chances are that visibility will be low and other drivers won't be able to see you. That’s why you need to turn your flashers on and you should have flares to put out if necessary.

Stay Safe And Warm

Thanks again for all of your hard work trucking through snow, ice, and frigid temperatures. We hope you will be able to stay safe and warm, but please be prepared in case an emergency happens.

Please share your winter safety tips in the comment section below and visit TSNAmerica.com for more trucking blogs. 

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