IRS Form 2290: Why Contractors and Trucking Companies Need It

Many members are asked to provide a copy of IRS Form 2290, especially when entering into new government contracts, logistics bids, or transportation compliance reviews. This article breaks down what Form 2290 is, why it matters, and what you need to give your Gbooks relationship manager to file it properly.

📄 What Is IRS Form 2290?

IRS Form 2290 is the Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Return. It’s required if you operate a commercial vehicle with a gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more on public highways. The tax must be paid annually to remain compliant with the IRS and state transportation agencies.

After the IRS accepts your Form 2290, they issue a stamped Schedule 1—this is the proof that many government or state contractors will ask for during onboarding or annual compliance checks.

📌 When You’ll Be Asked for Form 2290

• 🔧 You’re submitting a bid for a public infrastructure or trucking contract
• 🚛 You're registering or renewing a commercial vehicle over 55,000 lbs
• 🛣️ You're working with DOT-regulated clients or compliance-sensitive vendors
• 📁 You're applying for motor carrier authority or IFTA licenses

📝 What to Send to Gbooks to File Form 2290

To ensure we file your 2290 tax return correctly and on time, please provide your Gbooks relationship manager with:

• ✅ VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for each heavy vehicle
• ✅ Gross vehicle weight (GVW) for each truck
• ✅ First use month for the current tax year (usually July)
• ✅ Proof of EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• ✅ Copy of prior year’s stamped Schedule 1 if renewing
• ✅ Completed power of attorney if we are filing on your behalf

📲 Track Your Miles with Zoho Expense

Form 2290 requires you to classify vehicles based on how many miles they’re expected to operate (e.g., under or over 5,000 miles annually). Using Zoho Expense to log trip mileage helps:

• 📍 Prove mileage for IRS low-use exemption if under 5,000 miles
• 📊 Support deductible operating expenses in your annual return
• 🧾 Keep a digital trail with time, date, and route details

To activate mileage tracking in Zoho Expense, open the app, go to Trips → Mileage, and start logging your commercial use trips by odometer or map route.

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