Filing IFTA tax returns

When do I need to file an IFTA tax return?

As an IFTA member, you must complete and file an IFTA tax return every 3 months, even if:

• You don't have any mileage to report (mark "No operation" on the tax return)
• You travel only in Washington
• There is no payment due

We'll mail you pre-printed quarterly IFTA tax returns which include barcoded information for active account holders. These mailings also include the current IFTA tax rate schedule.

How to file a return

There are 2 ways to file your IFTA tax return:

• File your return online through TAP
• Complete the pre-printed IFTA tax return form for the correct period

You can find instructions for filling out the tax return on our TAP page, in our IFTA tax return instructions, or by reviewing the IFTA membership packet. You must submit your tax returns according to the dates in the chart below.

Coming in January 2025! In response to increased questions and reporting errors in IFTA tax returns, we are working to provide you with a public listing of known fuel station locations selling fuel without the Washington tax paid before delivery, also known as untaxed fuel. This listing will assist you in properly reporting and calculating any fuel taxes owed or refundable when filing your quarterly tax returns. Once compiled, this list can be found here on our IFTA tax return web page.

Filing quarters and due dates

*Tax returns must be postmarked the next business day if the due date falls on a weekend or Washington State holiday.

Mail or fax

Use one of the addresses below depending on whether you're including a payment with your return.

Tax returns with payments

Department of Licensing
Prorate and Fuel Tax Services
PO Box 9048
Olympia, WA 98507-9048

Tax returns without payments

Department of Licensing
Prorate and Fuel Tax Services
PO Box 9228
Olympia, WA 98507-9228

Fax number

You can fax your returns to 360-570-7839.

Cancellation, revocation, and reinstatement

Cancel your account

You may cancel your IFTA account at any time by:

• Logging in to your TAP account
• Submitting a tax return marked "cancel license" with an effective date listed
• Providing a cancellation letter

Reinstate your account

You must pay your account in full. If we revoked your account, you'll receive a letter with details and requirements. When reinstating an account, use the "reinstatement" link on your TAP account or fill out a new IFTA License Application. You must pay all outstanding amounts and returns in full and pay a $100 reinstatement fee. You may need to complete a new IFTA Decal Application if you don't have a current license and decals.

Remove a service agent from your account

If a service agent manages your account and you want to remove their access, you must submit a written request by email, mail, or through TAP. If you're getting a new agent, you'll also need a new power of attorney (POA) for them. We'll make the change and your account on TAP will reflect this or we'll call you.

Interest charged on late returns

IFTA, Inc. sets the interest rate each year at 2% above the IRS underpayment rate. This rate accrues monthly at 1/12th the annual rate.

If you haven't paid your balance, Washington charges 1% interest on the full amount owed as of the first day of the following month. Washington interest is applied to the net balance due on the first day of the month following the due date of the filed return.

How to request copies of your return

Access your TAP account to get copies of your IFTA tax returns. For certified copies, complete and submit the Washington State IFTA Information Release Request form. Once we process your request, you'll receive your return by the method you chose as well as through your TAP account.

Related information

• IFTA Special Authorization licensees
• IFTA change of address form
• Taxpayer Access Point (TAP)
• Recordkeeping information