Category: agricultural vehicle

For IRS Form 2290 Is my Rig an Agricultural Vehicle?

Posted on May 15, 2018 by - 2290 Form 2018, agricultural vehicle, express truck tax, expresstrucktax, Form 2290 due dates, Form 2290 instructions 2018, Form 2290 Online, Taxable Heavy Vehicle, taxable vehicle

For IRS Form 2290 Is my Rig an Agricultural Vehicle?One question we often run into is “What is an agricultural vehicle for IRS Form 2290?” That is because when you file IRS Form 2290, you are asked to indicate whether your taxable vehicle is used for agricultural purposes.

For IRS Form 2290 Is my Rig an Agricultural Vehicle?

Depending on your vehicle type and how you use it, the tax rates and filing requirements vary. This is just one reason why it’s so important to categorize your taxable vehicle correctly when filing your HVUT Form 2290.

We recently discussed the different requirements for logging vehicles, which are vehicles used solely for the transport of forested materials. Logging vehicles are taxed at a lower rate than typical heavy vehicles, so if you drive a logging truck, be sure to check “used for logging” to be taxed at the lower rate!

Another type of taxable vehicle with special requirements is the agricultural vehicle.

Agricultural Vehicles & Higher Mileage Limits

Vehicles typically required to file HVUT are those with a taxable gross weight over 55,000 lbs and that travel over 5,000 miles on public highways throughout the tax period.

BUT to give farmers a break, the IRS made the requirements a bit more lenient for vehicles used in agriculture. Agricultural vehicles, regardless of their weight, are allowed to drive up to 7,500 miles on public highways each year before having to pay any tax at all!

Just to clarify, this does not mean that you don’t have to file HVUT at all. If your gross vehicle weight is over 55,000 pounds, you must still file HVUT and receive a stamped Schedule 1. However, if your agricultural vehicle will drive fewer than 7,500 miles throughout the tax year, you will owe zero tax when you file! This is known as filing a Category W or a Suspended/Low Mileage Vehicle. 

Does My Vehicle Qualify as an Agricultural Vehicle?

To ensure that your vehicle qualifies as an “agricultural” vehicle according to IRS standards, here are the two requirements your vehicle must meet:

  • 1. The vehicle is used primarily for farming purposes throughout the tax year. But what does the IRS consider “primarily for farming purposes”? It’s actually quite simple. More than half of the vehicle’s total mileage for the year must be used for farming purposes. 
  • And 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-

  • 2. 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!!

To file as a suspended agriculture vehicle, skip the first “Taxable Vehicle” section of 2290, and instead enter your vehicle’s information under the “Low Mileage/Suspended Vehicle” section. And be sure you check the box “Used for Agriculture.” 

Exceeding the Mileage Limit

Occasionally, agriculture vehicles will be filed as Suspended (Category W) at the beginning of the tax period, but then exceed the 7,500-mile limit during the year.

If your vehicle goes over, you must file a Form 2290 Amendment for a Mileage Increase. The amendment is due by the end of the month following the month in which you exceeded the limit. This means that if you went over 7,500 in January, then the amendment must be filed by the last day of February.

When filing the mileage increase amendment, the IRS will prorate your HVUT for the remaining months of the tax year (which runs from July 1st to June 30th each year). This means that even though you will owe some tax, it will not be the full amount you would’ve owed if you had filed as a non-suspended vehicle initially. Hooray, for lower tax!

Year-Round Support For Farmers!

If anyone deserves a break, it’s farmers! That’s why we’re always here to assist you 24/7, 365. Pre-file today with ExpressTruckTax and be set until July 2019. Our e-filing process is the fastest and easiest way to receive your stamped Schedule 1.

If you have questions about pre-filing your HVUT 2290 contact our US-based support team via call, live chat, or 24/7 email support.

Pre-File Your HVUT Today!

Costs to seriously Consider When Buying A Rig

Posted on December 28, 2016 by - ”small trucking company”, ”start a trucking company”, #TruckingNation, agricultural vehicle, big rigs, Buying Trucks, new truck, Owner Operators, Semi, truck driver, Trucker

Whether you’re becoming an owner operator, a fleet manager looking to expand your operation, or tired of leasing, it might be time to buy your own rig. However, there are a few hidden or not so obvious costs to consider. Be sure to consider the following costs that go into buying new or used tractor-trailers before busting out your checkbook.

Costs to Consider With New and Used Rigs

First things first, you’ll need a down payment. Spending between $10k to 40K on a new or used rig will help you get a lower monthly rate. That’s another thing, every month you’ll have a big new bill in the mail!

When buying a new truck the monthly bill will be there for years hanging over your head. Buying used will give you more of a short-term investment that you can pay off in a quicker amount of time, with a possible lower monthly rate.

Did you know that new trucks come with fancy warranties? There are even extended warranties! They can really save your butt if you need a repair early on, but they also can add a lot onto your monthly tab.

Warranties on older rigs cost a bit more, because obviously and older rig will need more maintenance than a newer one. Say you’re interested in a rig with over 500k miles on it, it will hard to get a detailed report about it’s driving history. At least with a new rig, you know every detail about it. However, with an older rig the warranty payment may balance out with the cheaper monthly payment.

Although, keep in mind that even though older rigs are sturdier they usually have more issues and bigger problems. For example, most older truckers need a total engine rebuild around 700,000 miles! Plus, are the axles, tires, transmission, suspension, and more in good shape?

Have you considered insurance? Legally you need it to keep your truck on the road. Insuring a brand new rig will add more to your monthly bills. Driving without it could leave you with huge penalty fees, especially if you’re involved in an accident. Generally, trucks with cheaper values have cheaper insurance rates, but if you have a bad driving record your rate could skyrocket. Watch out for those speeding tickets!

This may seem obvious, but trucks with all the bells and whistles cost more. Do you want an automatic truck? Do you make overnight trips? If so, do you want a medium-sized sleeper or one with an extended roof?

As mentioned above, older truckers are often built a bit sturdier. This comes in handy with the resell value. If you’re looking for a truck to start out in then make sure you get something you can resell later when you’re ready to upgrade. Avoid a cheaply made new truck that you will have trouble flipping later.

At the end of the day, you’ll still have to consider all of the maintenance costs. Gas, which is cheaper in newer, more fuel-efficient rigs can really add up. Maintenance like oil changes and tune-ups, taxes, filing fees, repairs, and more may cost more on an older rig too.

Don’t just head down to the lot and pick a pretty color, research your options and go with a list of what you’re looking for in a new or used rig to make sure that you get the best option for your current financial state.

Get That Rig and Get to Trucking!

If it’s the right time to get your first new truck, a new to you truck that’s used, or upgrade to a better truck then go for it! It’s a great feeling to go down the road in something that’s totally yours. Just make sure that your finances are in order and you take the time and consideration to find your perfect match.

For more trucking tips visit ExpressTruckTax.com, be sure to share your truck buying experiences in the comment section below.

The Countdown is On: How to E-file for Farmers

Posted on August 10, 2015 by - 2290 deadline, agricultural vehicle, Expresstrucktax.com, farmers, Form 2290, HVUT, Schedule 1, Truck Tax

It’s harvest time, Trucking Nation! And for more than just for crops. Your Heavy Vehicle Use Taxes are due on your agricultural vehicle by the end of the month.

So get ready to renew your tags, farmers! Because keeping your tags up-to-date and filing your HVUT on time is a great way to stay in the good graces of the IRS. And you need to file your 2290’s so you’ll able to renew your vehicle registration on time, or you could face serious consequences and penalties.

Filing for suspended, logging, or agricultural vehicles is a little bit different than filing for a taxable vehicle. Because Agricultural Vehicles get a larger allotment of mileage before they are considered taxable and not suspended vehicles. For example, regular taxable vehicles have a 5,000 mile limit before they are no longer considered suspended, while agricultural vehicles have a 7,500 mile limit.

While the difference in how you file isn’t anything extreme, we’ve got a handy dandy guide to show you how to file specifically for agricultural vehicles.
How to File for Agricultural Vehicles

When e-filing for agricultural vehicles, simply follow the same three easy steps as usual, but with a slight twist when entering your vehicle information.

Step 1: Account Setup  

  • If you already have an account with us, all you have to do is login.
  • However, if you’ve never created an account with us before, then go ahead and select “Create Account,” and then enter your email address and a password of your choosing to get started.
    • Pro-tip #1: To save time, you can also choose to login with your Google Account, or Facebook Account.
  • Next, enter your business details. Including your EIN, business name, and signing authority.
  • Select “File for Current Tax Year,” and then finally, click “Next” to move on to vehicle details.

Step 2: Vehicle Details

  • This is where you all all of your vehicle information. If you’re a returning user, chances are you have some vehicles saved in Truck Zone. 
  • But if you’re a new user, you have some choices on how to upload your new vehicle information. You can enter the vehicles one-by-one manually, or you can use an excel file.
  • Remember to choose the right section for your vehicle. Since you are using agricultural and farming equipment, your vehicle may be classified under suspended if you’re under 7,500 miles for the tax year. 

  • If this is the case, skip the taxable vehicle section and choose to add your vehicle under suspended instead.
  • If your vehicle has gone over the mileage limit, simply add your truck under “Taxable Vehicles” and move on to the next step.

Step 3: Transmit

    • Next, review your details and make certain everything is correct. Our system will also review your information for you, just in case.
    • And finally, you can securely transmit your return to the IRS, and get your Stamped Schedule 1 back via email in minutes.

    That’s it! It really is that simple. Three tiny steps that are imperative for staying compliant and renewing your vehicle registration come tax season.

    If you need any help along the way, just ask our dedicated support legends! You can give them a call at 704.234.6005 during our new extended business hours from 8AM to 8PM EST, or you can shoot them an email at support@expresstrucktax.com for 24/hour support in English and Spanish.

    Form 2290 Suspended Vehicles

    Posted on February 12, 2014 by - 2290 deadline, 2290 online, agricultural vehicle, E-file form 2290, easy 2290, Form 2290 HVUT, Form 2290 Suspended Vehicle, mobile 2290, Prior Year Low Mileage / Suspended Vehicles

    If a highway motor vehicle does not exceed mileage 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles) it is considered suspended and is exempt from tax. Mileage use limit means the use of a vehicle on public highways 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles). The mileage use limit applies to the total mileage a vehicle is used during a period, regardless of the number of owners.


    An agricultural vehicle is any highway motor vehicle that is:

    1. Used (or expected to be used) primarily for farming purposes, and
    2. Registered (under state laws) as a highway motor vehicle used for farming purposes for the entire period. A special tag or license plate identifying the vehicle as used for farming is not required for it to be considered an agricultural vehicle.

    So why would do you have to file if there is no tax due?  In order to obtain your registration and/or tags, state require and Stamped Schedule 1 from the IRS for all vehicles 55,000 lbs or more.  You must file Form 2290 in order to receive your Stamped Schedule 1.

    To E-File the Form 2290 online now, go to ExpressTruckTax.com or contact our Express Tax Support Center in Rock Hill, SC at 704-234-6005 or email us at support@ExpressTruckTax.com.  We have Spanish Support too!

    What is an Agricultural Vehicle?

    Posted on December 18, 2013 by - 2290 deadline, 2290 online, agricultural vehicle, E-file form 2290, easy 2290, Form 2290 HVUT, Form 2290 Suspended Vehicle, mobile 2290, Prior Year Low Mileage / Suspended Vehicles

    An agricultural vehicle is any highway motor vehicle that is:
    • Used (or expected to be used) primarily for farming purposes, and
    • Registered (under state laws) as a highway motor vehicle used for farming purpose for the entire period.
    A vehicle is used primarily for farming purposes if more than half of the vehicle’s use (based on mileage) during the period is for farming purposes.


    A special tag or license plate identifying the vehicle as used for farming is not required for it to be considered an agricultural vehicle.

    Any agricultural vehicle traveling 7500 miles or less during the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax period, is considered a suspended or Category W vehicle and no tax is due.

    For more information or to file your Form 2290 today, visit ExpressTruckTax.com or contact our Express Tax Support Center in Rock Hill, SC at 704-234-6005 or email us at support@ExpressTruckTax.com.  We have Spanish Support too!

    Form 2290 Suspended Vehicles

    Posted on October 12, 2012 by - agricultural vehicle, E-file form 2290, express truck tax, Form 2290, Form 2290 Online, Form 2290 Suspended Vehicle, heavy vehicle use tax, highway motor vehicle, HVUT, stamped Schedule 1

    If a highway motor vehicle does not exceed mileage 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles) it is considered suspended and is exempt from tax. Mileage use limit means the use of a vehicle on public highways 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles). The mileage use limit applies to the total mileage a vehicle is used during a period, regardless of the number of owners.

    An agricultural vehicle is any highway motor vehicle that is:

    • Used (or expected to be used) primarily for farming purposes, and
    • Registered (under state laws) as a highway motor vehicle used for farming purposes for the entire period. A special tag or license plate identifying the vehicle as used for farming is not required for it to be considered an agricultural vehicle.

    So why would do you have to file if there is no tax due?  In order to obtain your registration and/or tags, state require and Stamped Schedule 1 from the IRS for all vehicles 55,000 lbs or more.  You must file Form 2290 in order to receive your Stamped Schedule 1.

    At ExpressTruckTax.com, you can file your Form 2290 and receive your Stamped Schedule 1 within minutes. To E-File the Form 2290 online now, go to ExpressTruckTax.com. If you have any questions along the way, contact our friendly US based customer support center in Rock Hill, SC at 704-234-6005 or email us at support@ExpressTruckTax.com.

    Form 2290 Suspended Vehicles

    Posted on August 28, 2012 by - agricultural vehicle, e-file 2290, express truck tax, Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax, Form 2290, Form 2290 Online, highway motor vehicle, HVUT, suspended vehicles

    We here at ExpressTruckTax.com are frequently asked why they have to file a Form 2290 Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Return if they only have a vehicle that is considered suspended.  If a highway motor vehicle does not exceed mileage 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles) it is considered suspended and is exempt from tax.

    Mileage use limit means the use of a vehicle on public highways 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles or less for agricultural vehicles). The mileage use limit applies to the total mileage a vehicle is used during a period, regardless of the number of owners.

    An agricultural vehicle is any highway motor vehicle that is:

    • 1. Used (or expected to be used) primarily for farming purposes, and
    • 2. Registered (under state laws) as a highway motor vehicle used for farming purposes for the entire period. A special tag or license plate identifying the vehicle as used for farming is not required for it to be considered an agricultural vehicle.

    So why would do you have to file?  In order to obtain your registration and/or tags, state require and Stamped Schedule 1 from the IRS for all vehicles 55,000 lbs or more.  You must file Form 2290 in order to receive your Stamped Schedule 1.

    At ExpressTruckTax.com, you can file your Form 2290 and receive your Stamped Schedule 1 within minutes. Friday is the deadline so to E-File the Form 2290 online now, go to ExpressTruckTax.com. If you have any questions, contact our friendly US based customer support center in Rock Hill, SC at 704-234-6005 or email us at support@ExpressTruckTax.com.