Kentucky Weight Distance (KYU) Tax

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Kentucky Weight Distance (KYU) Tax for Commercial Vehicle Operators

Get your KYU Permits – Temporary Permits for KY WDT or KIT

Understanding The Kentucky Weight Distance (KYU) Tax

If you are a Kentucky-based carrier that operates vehicles weighing between 59,999 and 80,000 pounds, you must comprehend and follow Kentucky’s Weight Distance (KYU) tax laws. Any vehicle weighing more than 59,999 pounds while passing through Kentucky must get both KYU and KIT licenses. Once received, ensure that the KYU and KIT numbers are plainly visible on your car. Compliance with these rules is critical to the success of your heavy-duty transportation business.

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KYU and KIT Taxes: Everything You Should Know

What is the KYU tax?

The Kentucky Weight Distance Tax (KYU tax) is a mileage-based tax levied on carriers for every mile they travel on Kentucky highways. The current tax rate is 0.0285 cents per mile. These taxes go toward the upkeep and growth of the state’s transportation network.

Who needs a KYU permit?

Any carrier driving a vehicle with a total licensed weight greater than 59,999 pounds must get a KYU license. This applies to intrastate and interstate carriers, with the exception of farm-licensed vehicles. If your vehicle weighs between 59,999 and 80,001 pounds, regardless of its base state, you must comply with and pay this quarterly weight-distance tax.

What is the Kentucky Intrastate Tax (KIT)?

The Kentucky Intrastate Tax (KIT) applies to vehicles registered in Kentucky that weigh more than 26,000 pounds or have more than two axles, regardless of weight. This tax applies to fuel consumed within Kentucky and is an additional duty for carriers operating in the state.

How to apply for a KYU permit.

To apply for your KYU license, follow the procedures below:

  1. Set up a Kentucky Online Gateway account.
  2. Complete the online application. Once accepted, you will be given a unique KYU number that must be clearly displayed on your vehicle.

For further information, consult the KYU Registration Guide or contact the Kentucky Department of Transportation. Our team at IRP Trucks is also available to assist you during the application process.

Filing KYU Tax Returns

If you have a KYU license, you must file quarterly tax reports through the Kentucky Motor Carrier Portal. Even if you drive 0 miles in a particular quarter, you must submit a zero-mile report to avoid fines. Our specialists can assist in streamlining the filing process and ensuring compliance with Kentucky rules.

Temporary permits for KYU and KIT.

Kentucky issues temporary licenses to transporters undertaking short-term excursions into the state. These permits are valid for 10 days and are an affordable option for infrequent travel.

Compliance and Penalties

Maintaining compliance with KYU rules is critical. Failure to complete quarterly returns or pay taxes on time may result in significant fines and the suspension of your KYU license. IRP Trucks provides an effective e-filing solution to help you stay compliant and prevent problems, allowing you to focus on your company.

How to Apply for Your KYU or KIT Number

Before you apply, acquire the following information:

  • Company Information: USDOT number, company name, owner details (including DBA if applicable), carrier tax ID (FEIN, SSN, EIN, or SIN), mailing and physical addresses (we can autofill these using your USDOT number).
  • Contact Information: Name, phone number, and email address of the filer.
  • Business Type: Indicate if your firm is a sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership, or other.
  • Filing Type: Please specify if you are applying for a KYU, KIT, or both. If you have previously held a KIT number, please share details.
  • Vehicle Information: VIN, license plate number, base state, axle count, year, make, model, fuel type, unit number, gross vehicle weight (GVW), unloaded weight, and truck status. If registered in Kentucky, include your title number.
  • Billing Information: Credit card information, including the cardholder’s name, expiration date, and billing address.
    Power of Attorney For KIT Only: To complete your KIT application, you must provide a signed Power of Attorney document. This will be supplied once your order has been placed.

Attention: To complete these forms, make sure your Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) is current.

Frequently Asked Questions

The KYU tax is a mileage-based levy levied on commercial vehicles with a legal weight more than 59,999 pounds that travel on Kentucky roads. It applies to intrastate and interstate carriers, with the exception of farm-licensed vehicles.

The KYU tax, which is computed at 0.0285 cents per mile traveled on Kentucky roadways, goes toward funding the state’s transportation infrastructure.

You can apply online by creating a Kentucky Online Gateway account and filling out the application. Once authorized, you will receive a KYU number, which must be displayed on your car.

Failure to file on time can lead to penalties, interest charges, and a $500 revocation fee. To be compliant, always file, even if you have 0 miles to record.

KYU: A tax license for vehicles weighing more than 59,999 pounds and operating on Kentucky roadways.
KIT: A fuel tax license is required for Kentucky-based vehicles that weigh more than 26,000 pounds or have more than two axles.

Online applications are handled instantly, however paper forms might take 10-14 business days.

The original KYU application is $50, with a $25 charge for each subsequent car. KIT registration has a same price structure.

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