Arkansas IFTA Quarterly Online Filing

Filing your Arkansas IFTA return online is straightforward once you know the system. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) requires all IFTA carriers to file quarterly, and online filing is the fastest and most reliable method. This guide walks you through the process, deadlines, and common pitfalls.

Who Must File Arkansas IFTA?

You must file an Arkansas IFTA return if you operate a qualified motor vehicle (QMV) in two or more IFTA jurisdictions. A QMV is a vehicle with two axles and a gross vehicle weight over 26,000 pounds, a vehicle with three or more axles, or a vehicle used in combination with a gross weight over 26,000 pounds. If you meet these criteria and travel through Arkansas or any other IFTA state, you need an IFTA license and must file quarterly.

Arkansas IFTA Quarterly Deadlines

Arkansas follows the standard IFTA filing calendar. Returns are due on the last day of the month following the end of the quarter. If that day falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day.

Quarter	Period Covered	Filing Deadline
Q1	January 1 - March 31	April 30
Q2	April 1 - June 30	July 31
Q3	July 1 - September 30	October 31
Q4	October 1 - December 31	January 31

Late filings incur penalties and interest. The late penalty is $50 or 10% of the tax due, whichever is greater. Interest accrues on unpaid tax from the original due date.

How to File Online: Step-by-Step

Arkansas uses the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point (ATAP) for online IFTA filing. Here is the process:

1. Create or log in to your ATAP account. Go to the Arkansas DFA website and select “ATAP” from the tax services menu. If you are new, you will need your IFTA account number and federal EIN to register.
2. Select IFTA filing. Once logged in, choose “IFTA” from the list of tax types. You will see your current filing period.
3. Enter mileage and fuel data. You will input total miles per jurisdiction and total gallons purchased per jurisdiction. You can also upload a spreadsheet if you have many records.
4. Review and submit. The system calculates your tax due or credit. Double-check all figures before submitting.
5. Pay any tax due. You can pay by ACH debit (free), credit card (fee applies), or electronic check. If you owe nothing, you still must file a zero return.
6. Save your confirmation. Print or save the confirmation page for your records.

What Records Do You Need?

To file accurately, you need:

• Mileage logs by jurisdiction (GPS, ELD, or manual logs)
• Fuel receipts showing gallons purchased in each state
• Trip records with dates, routes, and odometer readings

Keep these records for at least four years. Arkansas may audit your IFTA records, and missing documentation can result in fines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing late even if you owe zero. Late zero returns still incur penalties.
• Mixing up gallons and miles. Double-check that you enter fuel in gallons and miles in miles.
• Forgetting to report all jurisdictions. If you traveled through a state, you must report those miles, even if you bought no fuel there.
• Using incorrect tax rates. Arkansas updates IFTA tax rates quarterly. The ATAP system uses the current rates, so always file online to avoid using outdated numbers.

Fees and Payment Options

There is no fee to file online. However, if you pay by credit card, the processor charges a convenience fee of about 2.5% of the transaction. ACH debit is free. If you owe tax, you must pay by the deadline to avoid interest.

Arkansas IFTA Contact Information

If you have questions, contact the Arkansas DFA Motor Carrier Section:

• Phone: (501) 682-4800
• Email: motorcarrier@dfa.arkansas.gov
• Website: www.dfa.arkansas.gov

FAQ

Can I file Arkansas IFTA by mail?

Yes, paper returns are accepted, but online filing is faster and reduces errors. Paper filings must be postmarked by the deadline.

What if I have no miles or fuel to report?

You must still file a zero return. Log in to ATAP and submit a return with all zeros.

How do I correct a mistake on a filed return?

You can file an amended return through ATAP. Do it as soon as you notice the error to minimize penalties.

Are there any discounts for early filing?

No, Arkansas does not offer discounts. The only benefit is avoiding late fees.

The Bottom Line

Filing Arkansas IFTA quarterly online is a straightforward process if you stay organized. Track your miles and fuel daily, log in to ATAP before the deadline, and submit accurate data. Set reminders for each quarter: April 30, July 31, October 31, and January 31. If you miss a deadline, file as soon as possible to reduce penalties. With online filing, you can complete your return in under 30 minutes, leaving more time for the road.