What Is IFTA and How Do Quarterly Reports Work?

If you operate a commercial truck across multiple states, understanding IFTA is essential. Mistakes or missed deadlines can lead to fines, audits, or suspended permits.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know.

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🚛 What is IFTA?

IFTA stands for the International Fuel Tax Agreement. It’s an agreement between the U.S. and Canadian provinces that simplifies fuel tax reporting for interstate motor carriers.
You are required to register for IFTA if your truck:
1. Weighs over 26,000 lbs, or
2. Has 3 or more axles, and you operate in more than one state, you need to register for IFTA

🧾 How does it work?

You pay fuel taxes in every state you drive through, but instead of filing separately for each state, IFTA lets you file one quarterly report with your base state.

This report calculates:

Total miles driven in each state

Gallons of fuel purchased

Taxes owed or refunded

Your base state then distributes the taxes to the other states.

📅 When are IFTA reports due?

IFTA returns must be filed four times a year:

Q1: January–March → Due April 30

Q2: April–June → Due July 31

Q3: July–September → Due October 31

Q4: October–December → Due January 31

Missing a deadline can result in penalties or suspension of your account.

✅ We can help

C&R Priority Services helps trucking businesses stay compliant:

We register you for IFTA

We file your quarterly returns accurately

We send reminders so you never miss a deadline

Need help with IFTA compliance?

👉 Book a free 15-minute consultation.