Federal Excise Tax: September Deposit Deadlines

Dealers selling new heavy trucks that are subject to the 12% federal excise tax (FET) should prepare for September's accelerated deposit schedule. Missing these September deadlines can result in IRS penalties.

While FET returns are filed quarterly, dealers with FET liabilities of $2,500 or more must make semi-monthly deposits. But September follows a unique three-deposit schedule tied to the federal government's fiscal year. The first two deposits are due on the same day. The accelerated September schedule has been in place for years, but because it differs from the normal semi-monthly deposit schedule, dealers can inadvertently miss a deadline.

September 2026 deposit deadlines:

• Sept. 1–15 liability: Deposit due Sept. 29
• Sept. 16–26 liability: Deposit due Sept. 29
• Sept. 27–30 liability: Deposit due Oct. 14

Bottom line: Review your September FET obligations now and confirm that accounting personnel are prepared for this month’s accelerated deposit schedule.

More Info:

• IRS 2026 Tax Calendar
• IRS Guide on Excise Taxes