If you own a heavy vehicle, you must be familiar with Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) and IRS form 2290. Whether this is the first time that you are paying your HVUT tax or if you have been paper filing all these years, the IRS now accepts and encourages truckers to e-file their 2290 form and pay their truck tax online.
There are several e-filing providers to file your form 2290. But how do you decide which service provider is right for you? We have put together a list of all the factors you must consider before you choose a service provider for filing your form 2290.
1. Select an Authorized IRS e-File Provider
Always pick an IRS approved e-filing service provider. Most service providers need to be authorized by the IRS to qualify as a service. This involves meeting stringent criteria set forth by the IRS. You can find a list of authorized e-filing service providers on the IRS website.
Most IRS-authorized e-file providers have a solid backend system that guarantees smooth functioning to make your e-filing experience hassle-free.
2. Does Your Service Provider Meet All Your Filing Needs?
You need to be confident that the form 2290 service provider you choose has all the latest software and technology to make your filing process safe and easy. One way to check this is to take a look at all the services they offer.
- What are the various payment options they offer?
- Do they offer bulk data upload when filing for multiple vehicles?
- Do they offer free Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) correction?
- Is re-filing free in case of IRS rejections?
- Do they offer safe data storage and retrieval for your next filing?
Consider all the above aspects and evaluate what services you will need for a quick and easy filing of your form 2290.
3. How and When Will You Get Your Stamped Schedule 1?
Your IRS stamped form 2290 schedule 1 copy serves as a proof of HVUT payment. You will need your Schedule 1 copy for several occasions in the future, including renewal of your heavy vehicle registration and tags at the DMV. Hence, it is important to know how fast your e-file service provider will send across your IRS stamped Schedule 1 copy to you.
With e-filing, you will most likely get your Schedule 1 copy in minutes as soon as the IRS processes your form 2290. However, it is important to opt for a service provider that will send you this copy via mail and provide you with the option to download it from their website if you lose it or misplace it.
4. Does Your 2290 e-File Provider Offer 24/7 Customer Support?
Having 24/7 customer support will make your tax filing experience easy, comfortable, and quick. It’s also essential to read the customer reviews to ensure that the quality of service you’re offered is not compromised.
Picture this 一 you are halfway through filing your HVUT return. You are not sure what information to enter next in one of the boxes. In situations like these, you need someone to assist you immediately.
Make the Right Choice for A Safe, Secure, and Easy Filing Experience
The thought of filing your HVUT taxes can be stressful and something you put off until the last minute. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
If you choose an e-file service provider that meets all the above factors and offers a host of value-added service, you can be rest assured your 2290 filing will be as smooth as can be.