Merry Christmas Trucking Nation!

Merry Christmas from everyone here at Truck Services of North America! We hope you’re having a great holiday season so far, whether you’re on the road working hard, or just relaxing at the house with some friends and family.

Without you truckers, this holiday wouldn’t be possible. No Christmas trees, no turkey dinners, and no presents. That’s right, we have you all to thank for all the wonderful presents nestled under our trees this Christmas. 

Don’t forget that with the end of the year, in addition to all the New Year’s festivities, comes several trucking renewal deadlines.

End of the Year Trucking Deadlines

UCR:

The deadline for renewing your UCR registration is December 31, so you’ll need to have that done before the end of the year. We understand just how difficult and time-consuming this process actually is. So if you need help or want someone to take care of this pesky registration for you, then you know who to call. 

HVUT:

The IRS will shut down from December 25 until mid-January. That means if you still need a 2020-21 Form 2290, you need to file before the shutdown. The IRS will not process any forms during the shutdown.

So while it may not be something that can be wrapped, bagged, or even placed under the tree, give yourself the gift of TSNAmerica this holiday season. With all the bustle going on around this time of year, who has time to deal with registrations and renewals? Only us—that’s who. So give us a call at 877.520.8640 and let us make your holiday season by taking the paperwork out of your way!

Please note that we will be out of the office on Christmas eve, Christmas day, New Year’s eve, and New Year’s day, so if you need anything during that time, we’ll be offering emergency email support during those times at support@tsnamerica.com.

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Starting a Trucking Company? Here's What You Need to Know

Trucking is a huge industry in America today. In fact the number of trucking jobs in America has increased by over 30,000 since April 2020.

You’ve decided to take advantage of that.

Are you set on starting a trucking company, but don’t know where to start?

You’ve come to the right place.

Check out this guide for everything you need on how to start a trucking company.

How to Start a Trucking Company

Paperwork

When starting a trucking company, the first step is to form an LLC.

Owning a trucking company as an LLC will protect you as a business owner and offer tax advantages.

To form an LLC, most states require that you appoint a registered agent. This person will accept and send legal documents on your behalf and act as the direct point of contact with the state.

You’ll also need an EIN, or Employee Identification Number, for your LLC. This number is unique to your business and required for many aspects of operation, such as submitting certain tax forms.

After that, there’s more paperwork coming your way. Obtain necessary business licenses and permits, including USDOT Number, MC (Motor Carrier Operating Authority) Number, UCR (Unified Carrier Registration), and IRP (International Registration Plan).

How to Run a Trucking Company

Once you’ve gotten started owning a trucking company and have a truck, maintenance and growth are the name of the game!

Above all else, the best answer for how to run a trucking company is consistency.

Owning a trucking company requires awareness at all times. Track your expenses, stay tax compliant, and understand your finances.

Missing deadlines or expiration dates can cause you to lose good standing with the IRS. Plus, you’ll accrue penalties and affect your cash flow.

At this point, you may have mastered how to open a trucking company, but maintaining one is a whole new beast.

Let’s talk about the tools, such as owner-operator trucking software, that can help get you there.

Trucking Business Software

The best way to stay on top of your trucking company is with trucking business software.

Take advantage of technology when you’re starting a trucking company. There are many things to keep track of and monitor.

Utilizing a trucking business software makes it easy to keep it all in one place.

TruckLogics is a trucking business management software designed for leased operators, owner-operators, small fleet managers, mid-size fleet managers, and large fleet managers.

No matter where you fall in the trucking business world, TruckLogics is here to help you succeed.

Independent owner-operators can utilize this owner-operator trucking software to control their entire business from one place by managing dispatches, tracking income & expenses, scheduling maintenance, sending invoices, and more.

Plus, leased operators can take advantage of recordkeeping features like profit & loss reports or compliance records for maintenance and trip details.

On top of all of that, fleet managers have the added benefit of accessing TruckZone, which keeps fleet details organized and accessible.

Track maintenance, stay on top of finances, and so much more. Get started with a trucking business software solution right away when starting a trucking company. It can make or break your business.

Take TruckLogics for a test drive with a 15-day free trial.

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Happy Thanksgiving Trucking Nation

First and foremost, we at Truck Services of North America would like to wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving! We know a lot of you are still on the road working this holiday season, but we’d just like to take a second and let you all know that we appreciate you and what you do. Without you truckers, this Thanksgiving wouldn’t be possible, so thanks to all of you for your hard work and dedication, and for keeping America running.

Thank A Trucker This Thanksgiving

Yes, we know—you are a trucker. But that’s why we’re thanking you! We know all the long hours and hard work you do just to make this holiday possible. Because let’s face it, without you, we wouldn’t have the delicious turkey on the table, the stuffing, the apple pie, and heck, we wouldn’t even have the table itself. So thanks for working hard to make sure all of us are able to celebrate this joyous occasion with a delicious meal and those most dear to our hearts.

Thanksgiving Support

But now to the real meat of the blog. We’ll be offering Thanksgiving support! We’ll be out of the office on Thursday November 26 and Friday November 27, but we’ll be providing email support at support@tsnamerica.com all holiday weekend. If you need anything at all give us a shout! 

So remember folks, even though it’s Thanksgiving weekend, if you need some help with your UCR registration, 2290, or anything else trucking related, we’ll be happy to help you out. Enjoy your thanksgiving, and a special thanks for all that you do, Trucking Nation!

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Truck Driving Tips To Help You Stay Alert On The Road

Early mornings, late nights, long days, and crazy sleep schedules while on the road can make it difficult to stay alert.

Staying awake and alert for long periods of time plays a critical part in your safety and productivity as you Keeping America Trucking.

Here are 10 truck driving tips to help you stay alert on the road.

Truck Driving Tips To Help You Stay Alert On The Road

1) Avoid Exhaustion

NEWS FLASH! You and your fuel tank can’t be on “E” prior to your next haul! Adequate sleep is necessary to avoid exhaustion and reckless driving while on the road.

Take more frequent naps and get as many hours of sleep as possible. The more rested you are the more alert you will be!

2) Stay Away From Large Doses of Caffeine

Many drivers depend on caffeine to get them through the day. Although a cup of coffee here and there won’t hurt, too much caffeine will lead to a caffeine overload and ultimately put your health at risk.

Go easy on the caffeine, please!

3) Don’t Eat Large Portions of Food

As tempting as it may be, you can’t eat it all. A full belly will make you sleepy and cause you to not be fully alert while on the road.

4) Excercise

Taking a quick 5-minute walk at your next truck stop or rest area will give your body a new-found boost of energy that you need and even help you burn a few calories.

5) Take a Nap

Jumpstart your next drive with a quick 15-20 minute nap before hitting the road. Sleeping for less than one hour gives your body the energy it needs to stay awake longer.

6) Avoid Lights with High Contrast

The high contrast between pitch black and bright lights causes your eyes to feel sleepy. Be cautious when driving and avoid looking directly into bright lights.

7) Turn the Volume Up

Let’s get this driving party started! Upbeat music helps keep your energized, especially when you sing along with it.

8) Take Vitamins

The best vitamins to take for a boost of energy are Vitamins B & C! Take them alongside a healthy meal and get the energy you need for the long haul.

9) Open the Window

If you’re like me, a crisp breeze at night from outside will help keep you alert. Studies show that cold air gives your body a temporary boost and keep yous awake longer. Give it a try!

10) Pull over if you are tired

This one is a “no-brainer”. If you find yourself becoming tired or distracted during your haul, simply pull over and rest. Your safety, along with the safety of other drivers and haulers on the road, is extremely important.

Always get rest when needed!

Get Rest & Renew Your UCR

We now offer UCR filing services! Simply call (877) 520-8640 and one of our expert representatives will renew your UCR for you! 

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So. What Happens If I File IFTA Late?

Well. That depends on how late you are. And since there are four quarterly deadlines each year, it’s easy to forget to file IFTA. We wouldn't recommend that, though. No need to fork out more money towards taxes than you already are.

If you file IFTA one month late.

In the first month, you will be slapped with an additional fee of $50 or 10% of the tax you owe, whichever is greater. That $50 might not sound like much, but let’s put it in perspective.

The actual amount you will owe for IFTA will vary widely, depending on factors like the miles you drove in each jurisdiction and how much fuel was purchased and consumed.

So, for example, let’s say you would have owed $300 for the quarter. This is already a lot to be forking out. But after forgetting for that first month, you will be looking at another $50 penalty on top of that. After a month, you already owe $350.

If you file IFTA more than one month late

But let’s say you fail to file IFTA even longer. Well, you’re going to get another .4167% tacked on each month.

So if you forget to file IFTA for three months, you’ll owe $353.75.

Are you starting to see why it’s important to file IFTA on time? When these kinds of unnecessary expenses pile up, they can sink a business.

And did we mention that your base jurisdiction reserves the right to suspend or even revoke your IFTA license? That’s right. Not filing your IFTA form can get you in big trouble.

Generate your IFTA quarterly report form in minutes

The easiest way to avoid paying these unnecessary late penalties is to generate your IFTA quarterly report form with our sister-product Express IFTA. They make it simple it for you.

Express IFTA is user-friendly, and it does all the complicated calculations for you. Just input your information and Express IFTA will generate a highly-accurate form you can file with.

Best of all, you’ll get a report starting at just $19.90.

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TSNAmerica Is Now Offering Full-Service UCR Filing Services

Here at TSNAmerica, we are always looking for ways to make life easier for America’s truckers.

That’s why we’re adding full-service UCR registration to our list of services. All you need to do is call in, provide the appropriate information, and we’ll take care of your UCR registration for you! It's just like our Form 2290 solution!

Here are some frequently asked questions about UCR registration.

What is UCR registration?

The Unified Carrier Registration Agreement (UCRA) created the UCR, a federally regulated program for commercial motor vehicles that travel interstate.

Who has to register under the UCRA?

Every motor carrier based in one of the

se states that travels interstate must register under the UCR program. If you are in one of the states that do not participate, you don’t need to worry about UCR registration.

When do I have to register for UCR?

The UCR registration deadline is on December 31, 2020.

What information do I need to register?

All identifying information about your company including company name and address, owner name, and USDOT number.

The Make, Model/Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Number of Passengers, License Plate Number, and State, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of each vehicle you wish register.

Register today!

Call us today at (877) 520-8640 and register quickly! Our knowledgeable experts will take care of everything you need!

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Hotshot Trucking: Everything You Need to Know

Though it’s been around for a while, it seems like hotshot trucking is now more popular than ever.

Truck drivers who want to start their own trucking company often look to hotshot trucking as a cheaper option.

Hotshot hauling supports a specific niche in the trucking community, and there are various things you can and cannot do when you start a hotshot business.

What is hot shot trucking and what are the hotshot trucking requirements?

Find the answers to these questions and more in this hotshot trucking guide.

Hotshot Business

What is Hot Shot Trucking?

Hotshot hauling involves using medium-duty or one-ton trucks to pull trailers containing time-sensitive loads.

The “term hotshot” originated from the Texas oil fields, where pickups used to deliver quickly-needed parts to off-road drilling and pumping stations.

Hotshot trucking has survived from them to now and is actually regaining momentum with the increase in truckers’ desire to be their own boss without the high startup costs.

Plus, certain hotshot driver requirements make it a bit easier to get started quickly.

Pros and Cons of Hotshot Trucking

Besides avoiding the trucking business startup costs of buying or leasing expensive equipment, many hotshot loads are local and close-by, which means plenty of time at home.

Smaller loads that most freight trucks don’t want to haul are perfect for hotshot hauling.

Circling back to equipment expenses, purchasing a dually or 1-ton new truck is, on average a $40,000 investment, much cheaper than a rig.

Also, that vehicle won’t burn through fuel the same way that a larger semi-truck or rig will.

Hot Shot Trucking Requirements

Another major perk of hotshot trucking is that hotshot drivers are not necessarily required to have a CDL license.

A CDL is meant for vehicles weighing 10,000 pounds or more, depending on the state.

However, depending on what loads you’ll be transporting, you may want to get a CDL if you’re crossing state lines.

You’ll also need a USDOT number and possibly an MC number.

Speak to the Department of Transportation to find out specifically which documents you’ll need.

So, are you ready to start your own hotshot business? Hopefully, this information helped!

If hotshot hauling isn’t for you, but you’re interested in owner operator trucking or fleet management, check out some of our other blogs for resources, or print the one-page guide below to help you get started!

If you’re already in business and you’re looking for a trucking business management solution, check out TruckLogics, trucking management software with features for dispatch management, maintenance planning, business report generation, expense management, and more.

Use the free 15-day trial to check it out today!

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Do You Need to File Form 941 Online for Your Trucking Business?

If you own a small trucking business, it can be tough to know which taxes you’re required to file.

IRS tax Form 941 is a quarterly tax, and the 3rd quarter 941 deadline is November 2, 2020.

Check out this article for information on the 941 federal tax form to determine whether or not you need to file before the November 2nd 941 deadline.

IRS Tax Form 941

What is the Form 941 Tax Return?

IRS Tax Form 941 is the employer’s quarterly tax return.

It is used to report employment taxes. All employers are responsible for withholding federal income tax, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax from each employee’s salary.

The IRS Tax Form 941 is also used to calculate the employer’s portion of Social Security and Medicare tax. 

Do You Need to File 941 Form 2020 for Your Trucking Business?

The first question to ask yourself is, “Do I have employees?”

If you own and operate a business with employees, you’ll need to file Form 941 online.

Note: Independent contractors are not considered employees.

If you have independent contractors, you are not responsible for withholding taxes, you are simply responsible for paying the gross wage agreed upon in the contract.

Therefore, if you only have independent contractors working for you, you do not need to file 941 Form 2020.

The second question is, “Is my trucking business an S-corporation?”

S-corporations, or S-corps, are taxed on a pass-through basis, like sole proprietorships or partnerships.

Due to this, the S-corp does not pay tax on its profits. Instead, those profits pass on to shareholders who are taxed on it as part of their personal income.

Even though an S-corp may have no employees in the traditional sense (people working for the business without ownership stake), for tax purposes, any shareholder who performs duties on behalf of the business may be treated as a shareholder-employee.

Therefore, the money each shareholder receives in dividends may be treated as income, meaning you’ll need to file Form 941 online.

How to File Form 941 Online

If, after these two questions, you’ve determined that you need to file Form 941 for 2020, check out TaxBandits.

In just a few minutes, you could be done filing your Form 941 tax return. Don’t wait until the 941 deadline - knock it out now!

Here’s how it works:

1.  Create a free TaxBandits account
2.  Choose Form 941 for 2020
3.  Enter your employer details
4.  Follow the interview-style process
5.  Pay & transmit your Form 941 tax return

Still unsure if you need to file a 941 federal tax form?

Give the TaxBandits support team a call at 704-684-4751 and speak with a live, US-based agent who can help you determine whether you need to file a Form 941 for 2020. 

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How To Set Up Your Trucking Business For Success

Starting a trucking company is a great step into the ever-growing trucking industry.

Truck drivers account for about 6% of full-time jobs in the US, which will only grow as consumer demand for products does.

Owning a truck might be nice, but owning a successful trucking business is where you really want to focus.

Here are 3 tips for success as an owner-operator, leased operator, or fleet manager in the trucking industry.

Tips for Owning a Trucking Business

Understanding the Industry

Keep up with the latest news regarding the trucking industry. Stay on top of trends.

Plus, it’s important to have an understanding of what your future customers want and know how to take care of them better than your competitors.

Consider how you find customers who will give you repeat business, and determine what you need to do to keep them.

Understanding Business

Business is all about maximizing profit and minimizing expenses.

The trucking business is the same.

For starters, be sure you’re finding the best-paying loads. You can do this by knowing the current lane rates, researching which freight markets are hot, and always looking ahead to your next load.

Focus on cutting costs where you can, but more importantly, know where to step ahead and grab profit.

Stop throwing money away on unnecessary things. For instance, did you file your Form 2290 yet this year? If not, you’ve missed the 2290 due date and will face severe IRS penalties that only get worse with time. 

File now over the phone with TSNAmerica at 803.386.0320 to keep your money in your pocket.

Managing Time and Paperwork

Most importantly, your trucking business’s success depends on your ability to juggle all things at once.

Luckily, we know of the perfect tool to help you.

TruckLogics is a trucking company software program designed to take the paperwork out of trucking business for owner-operators, leased operators, and fleet managers.

With tons of unique features, you won’t believe how easy it makes your day-to-day tasks.

Owner-operators can use TruckLogics to manage their entire business. 

From managing dispatches and tracking income & expenses, to scheduling maintenance and sending invoices, it’s the one-stop-shop for your trucking business to make it happen.

Plus, leased operators can use TruckLogics to streamline record-keeping. Track income, run profit & loss reports and keep compliance records for your maintenance and trip details.

TruckLogics even has tools for fleet managers, including access to TruckZone, which keeps fleet details organized and accessible. You can even set automatic reminders for vehicle maintenance.

It truly is an all-inclusive trucking company software program.

Owning a trucking business can be hard, but it doesn’t have to be! Sign up for a free 15-day trial and give TruckLogics a test drive today.

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What to Do in the Event of an IFTA Audit

Even though the 3rd quarter IFTA deadline is still over a month away, don’t think you can put IFTA out of your mind entirely. Even though you filed your 2nd quarter return, paid the necessary fees, and even registered for your new license and stickers, unfortunately, there’s still the chance of an audit!

Now we know you’re a responsible trucker; you tracked your mileage properly and kept all of your fuel receipts nice, neat, and organized. But what you may not know, is that even if you do everything right, there’s still a chance you're going to get audited. Each base jurisdiction is required to audit three percent of its filers, just to make sure that truckers across our nation are keeping their logs and receipts properly.

So what can you do if you’re one of the unfortunate truckers that gets audited?

Get Your IFTA Information Ready

The first step (and only step, really) in a routine audit is for the auditor to go through and verify all of the information on your return. So you’ll need to have the following information ready to go:

Basic Information About Your Vehicle: 

• Driver’s Name and Signature
• VIN (vehicle identification number) 
• Trailer Number
• Registrant’s Name 
• Make, Model, and Gross Weight of the Vehicle 

Trip Log Information:

• Beginning and End Dates of the Trip 
• The Route(s) of travel 
• The Origin Point and Destination Point of each Trip 
• Odometer Readings Before and After Each Trip 
• Total Trip Miles
• Miles Traveled in Each IFTA Jurisdiction 

Fuel Record Information: 

• Receipts for Each Purchase (Please note that copied or scanned receipts are not acceptable.)
• Date of Each Purchase (If it’s not listed on the receipt) 
• Seller’s Name and Address 
• Price Per Gallon/Liter 
• Fuel Type

So just make sure you have all of the following pieces of information together, and you'll have nothing to worry about in the event of an audit.

And if you think maybe you got audited because you threw your return together yourself at the last minute, then next time, try using ExpressIFTA to generate your report. All you have to do is enter your fuel and mileage information and they'll calculate everything for you!

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Here is the Easiest Way To File 2290 Form 2020

There’s a little over two days left in the race to the 2290 Form 2020 due date finish line. If you weren’t aware, your Heavy Highway Use Tax must be filed by Friday, August 31st.

You can quickly handle your Form 2290 filing with the help of TSNAmerica. We understand that filing taxes is not the most exciting thing to do while on the road, so here is why you need to know about the easiest way to file 2290 Form for 2020.

Here is the Easiest Way To File 2290 Form for 2020

With the 2290 tax due date quickly approaching it is important to mark “Form 2290 Filing” off your to-do list. Unsure of what Form 2290 for 2020 is and if you are even required to file? Here’s a quick Form 2290 filing course to bring you up to speed–no need to worry, there won’t be a quiz at the end.

What is Form 2290?

IRS Form 2290 is used each year by truckers to file Heavy Vehicle Use Tax, also known as HVUT. You must file this form and get a stamped copy of your Schedule 1 Form 2290 for taxable highway motor vehicles that are registered, or required to be registered in your name under state, District of Columbia, Canadian, or Mexican law at the time of its first use during the tax period, and will travel over 5,000 miles during the tax year.

Information Needed for Form 2290 Filing

Phone filing with TSNAmerica is super easy and can be done in minutes! Here is the information you will need to provide when we file for you:

• Business Contact Information- Including your business name, phone number, and address (must match IRS records)
• EIN- Employer Identification Number
• VIN- Vehicle Identification Numbers for all of your taxable vehicles
• Gross Vehicle Weight
• Payment Information- Have your routing and account number ready if you plan to pay the IRS via Direct Debit.

Easiest Way to File Form 2290 for 2020

We’ve made you wait long enough. The easiest way to handle Form 2290 filing is to let us do it on your behalf over the phone! Simply pick up the phone when you have a few minutes to spare and give us a call at 803.386.0320.

Our friendly US-based bilingual support team is standing by ready to assist you. Provide them with the information needed for Form 2290 filing and we will file on your behalf in just five minutes. After your Form 2290 filing has been submitted you will receive a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 via email.

Call Us Today to File Form 2290 for 2020

877.520.8640

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What Happens If You File Your 2020 Form 2290 Late

There’s not much time left to file the IRS 2290 Form for 2020! Heavy highway use taxes must be filed by midnight on Friday, August 31.

If you thought not filing your truck taxes by August 31 was a good idea, you'll definitely want to rethink that. There are tons of penalties waiting for you if you fail to file your Form 2290 for 2020.

The penalties for not filing will end being far more costly than not paying your truck tax.

What Happens If You File Your IRS Form 2290 for 2020 Late?

It's time to get a move on with your Form 2290 filing. If you fail to follow IRS Form 2290 instructions and file by August 31, you will be hit with big penalties. Failing to file will result in penalties that are equal to 4.5% of the total truck tax amount due, and will increase monthly by .54% for up to five months.

IRS Form 2290 DeadlineCountdown

If those IRS penalties weren’t enough, your vehicle will be suspended until you can provide proof of the HVUT payment. You'll need the stamped Schedule 1 that you receive after you transmit your Form 2290 to the IRS in the cab of your truck to remain legal.

Easily File Your Form 2290 for 2020 Over the Phone

You can easily file your Form 2290 for 2020 over the phone with TSNAmerica! Just gather all your required information and give us a call at 877.520.8640. One of our friendly, US-based, bilingual support team members will file your IRS Form 2290 on your behalf in minutes!

You know what happens if you file taxes late, so let TSNAmerica help you avoid those hefty IRS penalties!

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Intrastate VS. Interstate Authority: What's the Difference?

Truckers often ask about the differences between intrastate and interstate trucking. They may sound similar, but when it comes to regulations, there is a world of difference.

So we're here to break them all down for you!

Understanding these different requirements is important for properly maintaining your authority and avoiding excessive fees or penalties.

So first, what do they mean? Intrastate truckers travel within one particular state only. Interstate truckers cross state lines and travel between two or more states.

Sounds simple enough. But what if you’re transitioning from intrastate to interstate trucking? What will you need to do differently?

If your journey beyond the borders is one-time only, then a temporary trip and fuel permits may be issued in lieu of IRP and IFTA. However, even for temporary interstate travel, you will still need to change your existing DOT Number, if you have one, to an interstate number. (Exception: unless you are operating under someone else’s DOT and/or MC Number.)

But if this is a more permanent transition you’re making, then permits will prove to be an expensive hassle.

There are five keys to unlocking the boundless roads of interstate trucking!

USDOT Number

Issued by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), a USDOT Number is required for vehicles that travel interstate either hauling cargo or transporting passengers and that meet one or more of these requirements: 

1. A vehicle has a gross or combined weight of 10,001 lbs or more. 

2. Transports 8 or more passengers for compensation. 

3. Transports 15 or more passengers not for compensation. 

4. Transports hazardous materials. This number serves as your identification during inspections, compliance reviews, and more.

*If you solely travel intrastate, you will still be required to obtain a USDOT number if you transport hazardous materials or if you travel in one of the 33 states that require a DOT#.

MC Number

An MC Number serves as your interstate authority, or your right to travel between states. In addition to your DOT Number, you may be required to obtain one or more types of authority through the FMCSA based upon your business and the type of cargo you carry. 

The type of authority obtained will determine the type and level of insurance coverage needed.

UCR

The Unified Carrier Registration Agreement requires anyone operating a commercial vehicle interstate or internationally and that weighs at least 10,001 lbs to register annually and pay fees based on the number of vehicles used. 

Even if your business is not based in a participating state, interstate carriers are still required to register with UCR and will be assigned a base jurisdiction in a nearby state.

IRP

The International Registration Plan is required for commercial motor carriers operating in multiple jurisdictions across the contiguous United States or provinces of Canada. Vehicles that require IRP have a gross weight in excess of 26,000 lbs, and/or have three or more axles. 

IRP fees are determined by the number of miles driven in each jurisdiction, but all fees are paid to the base jurisdiction only. This jurisdiction apportions the funds accordingly, which are then used to improve highways and safety programs.

IFTA

The International Fuel Tax Agreement, like the IRP, applies to commercial motor carriers traveling in more than one jurisdiction (state or province). Fuel use must be accurately recorded and filed with one’s base IFTA jurisdiction four times a year. Taxes owed are then distributed to other jurisdictions according to the amount of fuel burned in each.

In addition to these five keys, some states require further state-based registration if you travel through them, such as New York, Kentucky, New Mexico, and Oregon.

File your 2020-21 Form 2290 with us today!

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Be The First To File The 2020 IRS 2290

It’s that time again. The IRS Form 2290 season is here!

While most Form 2920 providers are waiting until July to open the 2020 season, here at TSNAmerica, we’re open right now!

That’s right, you can file your 2020 HVUT today!

How do you file your Form 2290?

Just grab your phone and call one of our helpful, US-based support staff! They’ll take your information down and file your 2290 for you!

On July 1, when the 2290 tax season is officially open, we’ll take your filled out 2290 and transmit it to the IRS. Then, as soon as it is accepted, we’ll send you your Stamped Schedule 1.

Why should you file your Form 2290 today?

Filing early gives you a ton of time to make amendments to your 2290 if you realize you made a mistake or the IRS rejects it for any reason.

If you file early, the hard work is done. All you have to do is save your pennies so that you can make your payment later. That’s right! If you select Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW) as your payment method, you don’t have to pay the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax until July 1! And even better, if you pick check or money order, you’ll get until August 31.

When the IRS starts processing HVUT returns on July 1, your Form 2290 will be sitting pretty on top of the pile. And did we mention that means you’ll get your Stamped Schedule 1 back first too?

We take care of the rest. Here at TSNAmerica, once you call, we file for you with the IRS!

File your 2290 today!

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This Free IFTA Tax Calculator Will Blow You Away

I don’t know about you, but it feels like we just filed and paid the IFTA fuel tax. Unfortunately, the next IFTA deadline is right around the corner.

Your 1st quarter IFTA report is due Thursday, April 30! If you need to generate your federal fuel tax report, you have come to the right place. Here’s how we can help.

Your Free IFTA Calculator

Our goal at TSNAmerica is to take the hassle out of filing your taxes. One of the many ways we achieve this is by providing you with a completely free IFTA mileage calculator app.

Download the app to your smartphone or tablet and calculate your IFTA fuel tax in a matter of seconds, no matter where you are.

IFTA Mileage Calculator Instructions:
1. Select your Base Jurisdiction
2. Select your IFTA Quarter & Fuel Type
3. Enter the Miles Traveled & Fuel Purchased per state

Now you can sit back and relax as the IFTA calculator app handles all of the complicated federal fuel tax calculators for you. Your total miles, gallons, and miles per gallon will be displayed along with the amount of IFTA fuel tax you owe.

You can then email this IFTA tax report to yourself or any recipients by entering any email address and clicking send.

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 product, 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!

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Your First Quarter IFTA Deadline Might Be Here

The COVID-19 crisis has sent terrible ripples across the entire trucking industry.

Trucking taxes are no exception to these problems.

Many deadlines in many IFTA jurisdictions have been moved or suspended for the duration of the crisis.

Most IRP deadlines have been changed and the majority of IFTA filing deadlines have also been moved.

Here is a breakdown of every IFTA filing deadline suspension or change in every IFTA jurisdiction.

IFTA filing deadline changes

Alabama:

IFTA registration requirements for vehicles traveling through the state as a part of emergency relief are waived until April 31, 2020.

Arkansas:

IFTA requirements for vehicles traveling in and through Arkansas for relief efforts are waived until April 30, 2020.

California:

90-day IFTA extension can be applied for by completing a waiver if you or a relative you are caring for is sick with COVID-19. Waiver available at: CDTFA.ca.gov

Colorado:

IFTA registration requirements suspended until June 30, 2020.
90-day IFTA extension can be applied for by completing a waiver if you or a relative you are caring for is sick with COVID-19. Waiver available at: Colorado.gov/tax.

Connecticut:

IFTA requirements are waived for commercial vehicles assisting in relief efforts until further notice.

Delaware:

IFTA requirements are waived for vehicles aiding in emergency relief until the end of the state of emergency.

Florida:

IFTA enforcement suspended for trucks traveling through the state as a part of emergency relief until April 13, 2020.

Georgia:

IFTA trip and fuel permits for vehicles providing direct assistance to the COVID-19 emergency are waived until May 16, 2020, at 5 pm.

Idaho:

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now June 1, 2020.

Indiana:

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now May 31, 2020.

Illinois:

No IFTA penalty or interest for late filers, until May 26, 2020.

Iowa:

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now May 31, 2020.

Kansas:

IFTA trip permit requirements for trucks traveling through Kansas have been suspended for trucks operating in association with disaster assistance until further notice.

Kentucky:

Renewal dates for licensing and registration extended by 90 days.

Maine:

IFTA registration enforcement is suspended until April 16, 2020.
Maine will not be charging late penalties for 1st Quarter IFTA filings.

Maryland:

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now June 1, 2020.

Michigan:

Enforcement of IFTA requirements is waived through the end of April.

Missouri:

IFTA requirements are waived until the end of the declared emergency.

Mississippi:

IFTA requirements for motor carriers traveling through Mississippi due to the COVID-19 emergency are waived.
Registration set to expire on March 31, 2020, will be extended to April 30, 2020.

Montana:

IFTA requirements are also waived until further notice.

Nebraska: 

Vehicle registrations expiring on or after March 1, 2020, are valid until 30 days after the end of the state of emergency.

New Jersey:

IFTA registrations expiring March through May 2020 are extended until May 31, 2020.
Temporary IRP and IFTA requirements are waived for vehicles traveling through New Jersey for relief efforts.

Nevada:

IFTA requirements are waived during the duration of the emergency.

North Carolina:

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now July 15, 2020.

Oklahoma:

Registration and licensing requirements are waived for commercial vehicles providing direct assistance to relief efforts until May 8, 2020.

Pennsylvania:

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now June 1, 2020.
Pennsylvania IFTA trip permit requirements are also waived for 30 days or until the end of the emergency.

Rhode Island:

License and registrations expiring between March, 1 and April 30, 2020, are now valid for another 90 days after their expiration.

South Carolina:

IFTA registrations that expire March 1, 2020 through June 30, 2020, will be valid until July 1, 2020.
IFTA requirements for out-of-state vehicles are waived until June 30, 2020.

Tennessee: 

IFTA requirements for vehicles traveling through the state of Tennesse in furtherance of disaster relief efforts is waived until May 18, 2020.
The new first quarter IFTA deadline is May 26, 2020.

Utah:

IFTA renewal for vehicles engaged in emergency relief efforts with registration expiring after March 17, 2020 waived until further notice.

Vermont:

IFTA enforcement discouraged for 90 days from the date of the emergency declaration (March 13, 2020).

Virginia: 

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now June 1, 2020.

Washington:

The first quarter IFTA deadline is now May 30, 2020.

Wyoming:

IFTA enforcement also suspended for trucks traveling through the state as a part of emergency relief.

Need to file your IFTA report?

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The Complete Form 2290 for 2020 Guide Filers Need

And the 2290 deadline countdown continues! Before you know it, August 31 will be here and your Form 2290 for 2020 will be due to the IRS

If this is your first or second time filing 2290 highway use tax, you may need a helping hand to complete the process.

We’ve gathered a few tips that you can use to your advantage with a complete Form 2290 for 2020 guide filers need.

The Complete Form 2290 For 2020 Guide Filers Need

Whether you have handled Form 2290 filing in the past or this is your first rodeo, it never hurts to get a better understanding of what IRS 2290 is and the information you need to meet the 2290 filing deadline.

Here’s a brief overview to bring you up to speed.

What is IRS Form 2290?

IRS 2290 Form is used annually to report heavy highway use tax. Owner-Operators with vehicles that have more than 55,000 lbs in gross weight must file by the Form 2290 due date on August 31.

Furthermore, if you are an owner-operator with a registered heavy highway use vehicle in your name, you must file and receive a stamped Schedule 1.

No worries, we’ll get to 2290 Schedule 1 in just a few.

Information Required to File IRS 2290

When it comes to filing IRS 2290, there is just a handful of information that you will need:

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

What You Need To Know About Schedule 1 Form 2290

See? We didn’t forget about 2290 Schedule 1! It’s pretty hard to especially since it is such an important document.

2290 Schedule 1 allows you to renew your vehicle’s tags at the DMV or register for IFTA, IRP, or UCR. A stamped Schedule 1 also provides proof of payment for the heavy highway use tax, since the IRS won’t issue one until the tax is paid.

Note: Always keep a copy of your stamped Schedule 1 Form 2290 in your truck, especially if you are crossing international borders (Canada)–Border Patrol will definitely be asking for it!

How To File Form 2290 by the August 31 Deadline

If you enjoy being an owner-operator and traveling across North America, TSNAmerica has the perfect filing solution for you to file your Form 2290 for 2020–phone filing!

Once you have gathered the required information, simply pick up the phone and give us a call at 877.520.8640 so one of our friendly US-based bilingual support team members can file your IRS Form 2290 on your behalf!

In just 5-10 minutes you will complete your annual filing requirements and will receive a digital copy of the stamped Schedule 1 Form 2290 via email.

Call us today and keep Uncle Sam off of your tail this tax season!

Let TSNAmerica File For You:

877.520.8640

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Want to Avoid an IFTA Audit? Avoid These Errors!

The 1st Quarter IFTA deadline is getting closer and closer, and we need to focus on avoiding an audit.

We’re gonna take this step by step, and focus on the heavy hitters.

The following are some of the red flags IFTA auditors keep their eyes out for:

Non-continuous Jurisdictions

Alright, this is kind of obvious, but it happens. Your trip logs must show continuity from your starting point to your destination. That includes every district in between.

There’s no way your vehicle began in New Jersey and then suddenly showed up in Ohio. Make this kind of error, and an auditor will be knocking on your door in no time.

Gaps in Mileage

If your end of day trip logs don’t match up with the beginning of the next day, you got yourself a mileage gap.

This usually happens because drivers don’t realize that their personal or leased miles must also be included on the trip logs.

Over-simplified Fuel Calculations

When reporting fuel, it is not acceptable to divide your miles traveled by a predetermined Miles Per Gallon estimate as MPG will naturally fluctuate. The precise fuel use and mileage must be recorded.

Skewed MPG

If your average MPG has drastic variations from one quarter to the next, without a legitimate reason such as differing road conditions, varying weights of the loads carried, etc, an audit could be triggered.

Excessively High/Low MPG

The average MPG for a heavy vehicle is between 5-10 MPG.

If your MPG falls outside of this range, you probably made an error in calculations.

The tough part is, some states won’t let you file your IFTA return until your MPG is within that acceptable range.

However—even if you avoid these obvious errors—you can still be chosen at random for auditing.

Give us a call at 803.386.0320 or fill out our service request form today!

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Need More Time To File Your Taxes? Get A Deadline Extension.

The dreaded April, 15 tax deadline, will be here before you know it.

Don’t let it sneak up on you. In fact, go ahead and tell the IRS when you’re going to pay your taxes.

That’s right. By filing a Form 4868 tax extension, you can get an automatic personal tax deadline extension.

If you’ve misplaced any forms or information, or you’re just too busy to do your taxes, a tax extension Form 4868 can be invaluable.

Let’s cover the basics of Form 4868.

What is Form 4868 and how does it work?

The Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S Individual Income Tax Return, better known as IRS Form 4868 extends the deadline of the income tax return as far as six-months (October 15, 2020).

Form 4868 is only for individual taxpayers, but businesses can file Form 7004, which has a similar effect.

You will not need to explain why you need a tax extension, but you will need to estimate your tax liability on the Form.

What information do you need to file Form 4868?

• Full name, address, & social security number.
• If you're filing jointly, you'll need the same information for your spouse.
• Total tax liability & Payment for 2019.
• Balance due if any.

How do you request a tax extension?

Paper File Form 4868

If you’re feeling like going old-school (and brave enough to risk making mistakes), find yourself a paper copy of Form 4868 (the easiest way is to print it) and fill out all the information. You will need to include a copy of last year’s tax return to verify the information you put down.

E-File Form 4868

Alternatively, you can do things the easy way and file Form 4868 from your computer through ExpressExtension.com. They’ll guide you through the e-filing process and help you be more accurate. The whole process only takes a couple of minutes.

Interested in getting a tax extension?

Once again, may we recommend ExpressExtension.com? It’s super easy, super convenient, super accurate, and super affordable. File your Form 4868 today!

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