Heavy vehicle use tax (HVUT) is one of the most significant elements of the US taxation scheme as it ensures that heavy vehicles contribute to maintenance and development of highways. However, failing to pay enough money under HVUT can result in severe penalties for businesses. This blog discusses what happens when you underpay HVUT and its penalties.

Understanding HVUT

Highway Use Tax applies to vehicles with a gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more operating on public highways. IRS Form 2290 reports this tax liability. The revenue from HVUT goes towards funding highway infrastructure projects that provide safe and efficient transportation routes.

Consequences for Underpaying HVUT

Not paying your required amount for HVUT has various implications such as:

• Penalties & Interest: There are penalties plus interest imposed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on any unpaid obligations arising from taxes not paid on due dates over time thereby increasing your tax debt significantly.
• Legal Issues: Continued disregard may cause IRS legal action including lien or levy against your property.
• Registration Suspension: Failure to pay HVUT may lead to suspension of vehicle registration hence disallowing legal operation.
• Operational Disruptions: Inability to operate could disrupt business operations resulting in potential financial losses.

Penalties for Underpaying HVUT

The penalty system created for underpayment is meant to promote early compliance.In this regard here are some major penalties among others that you may face;

• Late payment penalty: If you do not make payment by the date it is due, a penalty of 4.5% of the total tax due will be assessed per month, up to a maximum of 25% of the tax due.
• Late filing penalty: If you fail to submit Form 2290 in time, each late return will result in a penalty amounting to 0.5% of the total tax payable each month, not exceeding 25%.
• Interest on unpaid tax: In addition to penalties, interest accrues on any unpaid taxes until they are fully satisfied. The applicable interest rate is set by the IRS and compounded daily until full payment is made.

Avoiding HVUT Penalties

To avoid penalties for underpaying HVUT, it’s essential to follow these best practices:

• Accurate Calculation: Ensure that you correctly calculate your vehicle’s HVUT at gross taxable weight and mileage limit used.
• Timely Filing and Payment: Forms should be filed before or by August 31st (for current year vehicles).
• Regular Reviews: Regularly review your vehicle information and tax calculations for compliance purposes.
• Seek Professional Help: Consult a tax professional who can ensure that you have properly calculated and paid your HVUT.

What to Do If You Underpay HVUT

In case one realizes that he or she has underpaid the HVUT, he or she should:

• File an Amended Return: File an amended Form 2290 with corrected errors and proper taxes owed.
• Settle the Account Balance: Settle the unpaid tax and any other penalties and interest that may be due immediately.
• Get In Touch with IRS: If you are unable to pay in full straight away, reach out to IRS for payment options discussion or establishment of a payment plan.

Not paying enough HVUT can result in significant fines, interests and interruptions. By understanding what happens if you do not comply and taking proactive measures so that proper and timely payments can be made, this will be avoided while at the same time ensuring your business runs smoothly. Remember – adhering to HVUT regulations not only keeps your name clean but also takes care of our highways.

Note: For more information, visit IRS website