Truck owners often prefer EFTPS for Form 2290 because it is free, secure, and puts you in control of the payment date. The key is knowing that paying HVUT through EFTPS is different from filing Form 2290. You still need to e-file to receive your stamped Schedule 1, the proof most DMVs and IRP offices require. This guide walks you through how to pay Form 2290 on EFTPS, the timelines that matter for IRP and IFTA, and practical tips to avoid costly penalties.
Why use EFTPS for your 2290 payment
- EFTPS is the U.S. Treasury’s electronic tax payment system, there are no processing fees.
- You can schedule the payment for a future date and receive a confirmation number.
- EFTPS works well when you e-file Form 2290 with an IRS Authorized E-file Provider like Simple Form 2290, then pay the calculated HVUT separately.
According to the IRS, e-filing is required if you are reporting 25 or more vehicles and strongly encouraged for everyone else for faster acceptance and fewer errors. Penalties for failing to file on time are usually 5 percent per month of the unpaid tax, up to 25 percent, plus a 0.5 percent per month penalty for late payment and interest. See the IRS Instructions for Form 2290 for full details.
- IRS source: IRS Instructions for Form 2290
- EFTPS source: EFTPS
Before you start
- Have an EIN, not an SSN. EFTPS and Form 2290 both require an EIN.
- Enroll in EFTPS if you have not already. Enrollment can take several days to complete because a PIN is mailed for security. Start early.
- Gather details from your e-filed return, including your calculated HVUT amount, business name and EIN, and each vehicle identification number that you reported.
Step 1, e-file your 2290 and choose EFTPS as the payment method
- Sign in to Simple Form 2290 and start a new Form 2290 return. Enter your business info, first used month, each vehicle identification number, and taxable gross weight.
- At the payment step, choose EFTPS as your IRS payment method. You will not enter bank details on the e-file.
- Transmit to the IRS. After acceptance, Simple Form 2290 delivers your watermarked Form 2290 Schedule 1, typically in minutes.
- Helpful reference: How to File Form 2290
Why this order matters, IRP truck registration and many DMVs require the stamped Schedule 1 to issue or renew apportioned plates. EFTPS payment alone will not produce Schedule 1. E-file first to secure your proof, then finish the EFTPS 2290 payment.
Step 2, schedule your HVUT payment in EFTPS
- Log in to EFTPS and select Make a Payment.
- Choose Business Tax Payment, then select Form 2290.
- Enter the payment amount that matches your accepted 2290 return.
- Select the tax period shown in the EFTPS screen that matches your Form 2290 return.
- Pick the settlement date.
- Confirm the bank account, review, and submit. Save the EFTPS confirmation number.
Deadlines that affect IRP and IFTA
| First used month (FUM) | HVUT due date |
|---|---|
| July | August 31 |
| August | September 30 |
| September | October 31 |
| October | November 30 |
| January | Last day of February |
| March | April 30 |
File fast, pay smart, and keep rolling
Simple Form 2290 is an IRS Authorized E-file Provider built for truckers and fleets. The platform offers a guided, step-by-step workflow, instant Schedule 1 delivery after IRS acceptance, bulk vehicle filings, data security and retrieval, bilingual support, and a fleet dashboard.
Get started now at Simple Form 2290.
Disclaimer, This article is for general information only and is not tax advice. Always review the latest IRS guidance or consult your advisor for your specific situation.