Retail Taxes
Filing Retail Taxes Online (IRS No. 33)
The Retail Excise Tax on trucks, trailers, semitrailers, and tractors is reported quarterly on Form 720 (Quarterly Federal Excise Tax Return) under IRS No. 33. Sellers must report sales, and the system automatically applies the 12% tax rate to the entered sales price.
Importance of Auto-Calculations:
Allowing the system to auto-calculate your excise taxes ensures complete accuracy, reduces errors, and protects you from costly IRS underpayment penalties.
Check If You Need to File
You must file Retail Excise Tax under IRS No. 33 if you sell:
• Truck chassis and bodies.
• Trailer and semitrailer chassis and bodies.
• Tractors for highway transportation.
The tax applies only to the first retail sale of these vehicles.
Gather Your Information
Before filing, prepare:
• Business details (name, address, EIN).
• Vehicle sales records for the quarter.
• Sales price for each taxable vehicle.
• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) determined by the manufacturer or seller based on chassis strength, axle capacity, and placement (excluding attachable components like tires).
Enter Your Details
When filing online, provide the following:
Tax Date – date of the retail sale.
Sales Price ($) – retail sales price of the taxable vehicle.
Tax Amount ($) – the system will automatically calculate 12% of the sales price.
Claim Exemptions or Credits (If Applicable)
Exemptions may apply to non-highway vehicles, government sales, or qualified exports.
If tax was collected on a non-taxable sale, request a credit/refund after repaying the buyer or obtaining their written consent.
Adjust prior filings using Form 720-X if necessary.
Review and Submit
Ensure all taxable vehicles for the quarter are listed.
Double-check sales prices (the tax auto-calculates).
Exempt and export sales should be properly excluded.
Submit Form 720 electronically once reviewed.
Pay and Save Your Records
Pay retail excise taxes through the integrated payment gateway.
Save filings in progress and return later if needed.
Keep copies of all filed returns and supporting records for at least three years.
Access your past filings and payment history anytime.
Need Help?
Use the help icon for quick answers.
See IRS Pub. 510 for full retail excise tax rules.
Contact a tax professional for complex exchange or credit scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about our tax filing services
Who pays the Retail Excise Tax — the seller or buyer?
The seller is responsible for reporting and paying this tax.
How is the tax calculated?
What vehicles are taxable under IRS No. 33?
How is GVW determined?
Can I save filings and return later?

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