IFTA Requirements

International Fuel Tax Agreement

The IFTA requirements are tricky, so be certain you check and re-check all of your information before moving forward.  Reports of expensive penalties are frequent.

What is IFTA?  The International Fuel Tax Agreement is an agreement made by the contiguous 48 states, and the Canadian provinces.  Essentially, you need to be concerned if you have a vehicle over 26,000 pounds that travels across state lines.  Tax rates change frequently and are based, partly, on the type of fuel your trucks use. 

The real authority for IFTA can be found at IFTAch.org.  This site details how taxes are levied and paid as well as other information you should know before beginning.  This site also contains tax rates for each jurisdiction.

You should also look for information directly from each state in which you might travel.  For instance, Texas has the following site full of forms and information.  Texas IFTA Forms

One of the most important things you will need for IFTA is a report of Miles Traveled by State.  This will be critical for your tax reporting regardless of where you travel.

If you are not already a member of the American Trucking Association, or ATA, consider joining.  This organization is very active in promoting the interests of trucking firms across America and equally active in promoting safety on the roads for both cargo and passenger vehicles.