What is IFTA? Complete Guide for Truckers

If you're a truck driver or fleet owner operating across state lines, you've likely heard of IFTA. But what exactly is it, and why does it matter for your trucking business?

What is IFTA?

IFTA stands for the International Fuel Tax Agreement. It's an agreement between the 48 contiguous U.S. states and 10 Canadian provinces that simplifies the reporting of fuel use by motor carriers operating in multiple jurisdictions.

Before IFTA, truckers had to stop at each state border to pay fuel taxes. Now, with IFTA, you file one quarterly return with your base jurisdiction, and they distribute the taxes to the appropriate states based on the miles you traveled in each.

Who Needs an IFTA License?

You need an IFTA license if your vehicle:

• Has two axles and a gross vehicle weight or registered gross vehicle weight exceeding 26,000 pounds
• Has three or more axles regardless of weight
• Is used in combination when the combined weight exceeds 26,000 pounds
• AND travels in two or more IFTA member jurisdictions

If you only operate within a single state, you don't need IFTA registration.

IFTA Quarterly Filing Deadlines

IFTA returns are filed quarterly, with the following deadlines:

• Q1 (Jan-Mar) - Due: April 30
• Q2 (Apr-Jun) - Due: July 31
• Q3 (Jul-Sep) - Due: October 31
• Q4 (Oct-Dec) - Due: January 31

Important: Even if you don't operate during a quarter, you must still file a "zero miles" return!

What Records Do You Need to Keep?

For IFTA compliance, you must maintain:

• Trip records showing dates, origins, destinations, and routes
• Fuel receipts with date, seller name/address, gallons purchased, and total cost
• Mileage records by jurisdiction (odometer readings or GPS logs)
• Vehicle identification (unit number, fleet number, VIN)

You must retain these records for four years from the due date of the return.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with IFTA can result in:

• Late filing penalties - $50 or 10% of the tax due, whichever is greater
• Interest charges on unpaid taxes
• License revocation for repeated violations
• Roadside citations if found operating without valid IFTA credentials

How Jayboi Services Can Help

Managing IFTA on your own is time-consuming and error-prone. At Jayboi Services, we handle your IFTA filings so you can focus on driving. Our services include:

• ✅ Quarterly IFTA return preparation and filing
• ✅ Mileage tracking assistance
• ✅ Fuel receipt organization
• ✅ Audit support if needed
• ✅ Deadline reminders so you never miss a filing

Conclusion

IFTA is an essential part of interstate trucking compliance. By understanding the requirements, keeping accurate records, and filing on time, you can avoid costly penalties and keep your business running smoothly.

If you need help with IFTA or any other compliance matters, contact Jayboi Services today. We're here to help!