Insights

According to officials of The Pennsylvania Turnpike, Pennsylvania turnpike tolls are set to increase on January 2, 2011, by approximately 3% for E-ZPass users and 10% for non-E-ZPass users. This will be the first time the Pennsylvania turnpike toll rate has differentiated between E-ZPass and non-E-ZPass users. This rate increase will be the seventh rate increase in 68 years due to the need to address Pennsylvania’s transportation funding crisis.

Based upon the 3% and 10% approximations, a 60,000 to 80,000 pound truck (6 axles) traveling the Pennsylvania Turnpike from Butler Valley, to Delaware Valley, will pay about $135 with E-ZPass and about $144 without it. The toll today for a similar truck on the same trip will be about $131, with or without E-ZPass. In addition to the 7% discount provided with the E-ZPass, all commercial E-ZPass account carriers will also receive a 5% discount for charging more than $1,000/month but less than $5,000/month; 10% discount for charging more than $5,000/month but less than $10,000/month; and 15% discount for those charging more than $10,000/month. With increasing toll costs, commercial trucking companies would benefit from using an E-ZPass.

Schneider Downs provides accounting, tax, wealth management and business advisory services through innovative thought leaders who deliver the expertise to meet the individual needs of each client. Our offices are located in Pittsburgh, PA and Columbus, OH. 

This advice is not intended or written to be used for, and it cannot be used for, the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties that may be imposed, or for promoting, marketing or recommending to another person, any tax-related matter.

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