The Hawaii M-38 form is an exemption certificate used for purchasing diesel oil and liquefied petroleum gas intended for use off public highways. This form is essential for individuals or businesses that operate motor vehicles in areas not designated as public highways, allowing them to avoid certain taxes. To ensure compliance and benefit from the exemption, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
The Hawaii M-38 form serves as a crucial document for individuals, corporations, and partnerships looking to obtain exemptions on diesel oil and liquefied petroleum gas used off public highways. This exemption certificate is specifically designed for those who utilize these fuels in motor vehicles or internal combustion engines outside the confines of state highways. To ensure compliance with state regulations, the form must be prepared in triplicate, with copies designated for the distributor, the tax office, and the taxpayer. It is important to note that this certificate affirms the purchaser's intention to use the fuel in a manner consistent with the law. Misuse of the M-38 can lead to revocation and potential penalties, emphasizing the need for accurate completion. The form also outlines specific filing requirements, including when to furnish the certificate and conditions under which it may not be necessary. Additionally, it provides guidance on obtaining tax refunds for improperly collected taxes and details the responsibilities of purchasers who may switch the intended use of the fuel. Understanding the nuances of the M-38 form is essential for anyone engaged in the purchase and use of these fuels in Hawaii.
FORM M-38
STATE OF HAWAII
Year
(REV. 2001)
DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION
20
EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE
FOR DIESEL OIL AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS USED OFF PUBLIC HIGHWAYS
(Chapter 243, HRS)
Name of individual, corporation, or partnership
Hawaii GE/Use Id. No. (if any)
PREPARE THIS CERTIFICATE
IN TRIPLICATE AS FOLLOWS:
Name under which business is operated
Please
1.
Original for Distributor
Print
2. Copy for Tax Office
Business address (Number and Street)
or
3. Copy for Taxpayer
Type
For filing requirements, see the
City, Town
Island
instructions below for WHEN TO
FURNISH A CERTIFICATE.
Name of Distributor
This certificate is hereby issued in the foregoing name indicated above for the purchase of
and
(Type of Fuel)
the said person affirms that the use of such fuel purchased is for operating a motor vehicle or motor vehicles in areas other than upon the public highways of the State. It is further understood that the misuse of this certificate will lead to its revocation and/or the penalties provided by law.
I declare under the penalties set forth in section 231-36, HRS, that this is a true and correct certificate, prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Fuel Tax Law, Chapter 243, HRS, and the Hawaii administrative rules issued thereunder.
Signature
Title
Date
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUEL EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE
(FORM M-38)
1.General Rule. The following persons shall furnish an Exemption Certificate (FORM M-38) to the distributor thereof as provided under sections 243-4(b) and (c), HRS:
a.Every purchaser of diesel oil who uses such fuel in a motor vehicle in areas other than upon the public highways of the State, or
b.Every purchaser of liquefied petroleum gas who uses such fuel in an internal combustion engine or a motor vehicle in areas other than upon the public highways of the State.
2.Exception. An Exemption Certificate shall not be required if liquefied petroleum gas is used for fuel and heating purposes and not used in operating an internal combustion engine.
3.When to Furnish a Certificate. An Exemption Certificate shall be furnished to the distributor annually or whenever a change is anticipated in the use of the fuel. For example, whenever a change is anticipated from highway use to off highway use or from off highway to highway use, the purchaser shall notify the distributor in writing to this effect. The purchaser shall also file a copy of the Exemption Certificate with the Tax Collector in his taxation district.
4.Failure to Furnish Certificate. In the event an Exemption Certificate is not or cannot be furnished to the distributor, the tax shall be imposed upon all sales for operating a motor vehicle and collected as if the fuel is to be used for operating a motor vehicle upon the public highways of the State.
5.Refund of Taxes. A purchaser may obtain refund of all taxes imposed under sections 243-4(b) (1) through (4) and 243-4(c) (2), HRS, by filing a Combined Claim for Refund of Fuel Taxes (FORM M-36) with the Tax Collector in the purchaser’s taxation district in a situation where:
a.The tax was imposed and collected because the purchaser failed to furnish an Exemption Certificate but, in fact, the fuel was ultimately used off the public highways (not including the use for operating an internal combustion engine in the case of liquefied petroleum gas) or,
b.The fuel purchased was initially intended for use upon the public highways but was subsequently used off the public highways.
6.Purchase of More than One Type of Fuel. If both diesel oil and liquefied petroleum gas are purchased for use off the public highways (in motor vehicles or internal combustion engines), separate Exemption Certificates shall be furnished to the distributor covering the use of each fuel.
7.Additional Information to be Submitted by Purchaser. If the fuel is not used off the public highways, the purchaser shall, in addition to furnishing an Exemption Certificate to the distributor, furnish a separate statement at the time of each purchase showing:
a.Breakdown as to the diesel oil to be used upon the public highways and/or off the public highways.
b.Breakdown as to the liquefied petroleum gas to be used upon the public highways and/or off the public highways (operating an internal combustion engine).
8.Liability for Additional Taxes. Every purchaser of diesel oil or liquefied petroleum gas who furnishes an Exemption Certificate to a distributor for the purchase of fuel initially intended for use off the public highways but subsequently uses such fuel upon the public highways shall be liable for any additional taxes arising from the taxable use. In such event, the purchaser shall pay the additional taxes imposed by sections 243-4(b) (1) through (4) and 243-4(c) (2), HRS, by filing a Quarterly Tax Return for Additional Fuel Taxes Due on Fuel Initially Purchased for Use Off the Public Highways but Subsequently Used on the Public Highways (FORM M-22), with the Tax Collector in the purchaser's taxation district.
Completing the Hawaii M-38 form is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail. This form is essential for individuals or businesses purchasing diesel oil or liquefied petroleum gas for use off public highways. After filling out the form, it must be submitted to the appropriate distributor and copies should be retained for tax purposes.
After completing these steps, ensure that you prepare the certificate in triplicate: one original for the distributor, one copy for the tax office, and one copy for your records. It is important to understand the requirements for submission and keep track of any changes in fuel usage, as this may necessitate a new certificate.
The Hawaii M-38 form serves as an Exemption Certificate for diesel oil and liquefied petroleum gas used off public highways. This certificate allows purchasers to claim exemption from certain taxes when these fuels are used in motor vehicles or internal combustion engines outside of public highway areas.
Any individual, corporation, or partnership purchasing diesel oil or liquefied petroleum gas for use in areas other than public highways must complete the M-38 form. This includes those who use the fuel in motor vehicles or internal combustion engines.
The M-38 form should be provided to the fuel distributor annually or whenever there is a change in the intended use of the fuel. For instance, if a purchaser switches from using fuel on highways to off highways, they must notify the distributor in writing and submit a new certificate.
If a purchaser does not provide the M-38 form to the distributor, taxes will be imposed on all fuel sales as if the fuel is being used on public highways. This means that the purchaser will be liable for additional taxes that would have otherwise been exempted.
Yes, if you paid taxes due to not submitting the M-38 form but ultimately used the fuel off public highways, you can request a refund. To do so, you must file a Combined Claim for Refund of Fuel Taxes (FORM M-36) with the Tax Collector in your taxation district.
Yes, if you purchase both diesel oil and liquefied petroleum gas for off-highway use, you must submit separate M-38 forms for each type of fuel. This ensures that each fuel type is properly documented for tax exemption purposes.
In addition to the M-38 form, if the fuel is not used off public highways, you need to provide a separate statement at the time of each purchase. This statement should include:
If you initially purchased fuel with the intention of using it off public highways but later used it on public highways, you will be liable for any additional taxes. You must file a Quarterly Tax Return for Additional Fuel Taxes Due on Fuel Initially Purchased for Use Off the Public Highways but Subsequently Used on the Public Highways (FORM M-22) with the Tax Collector in your taxation district.
The misuse of the M-38 form can lead to its revocation and potential penalties as outlined by law. It is crucial to ensure that the information provided is accurate and that the fuel is used in accordance with the stated exemptions to avoid legal repercussions.
Incomplete Information: Failing to provide all required details, such as the name of the individual or business, can lead to processing delays. Ensure that every section is filled out completely.
Incorrect Identification Number: Entering the wrong Hawaii GE/Use Identification Number can result in issues with tax compliance. Double-check this number for accuracy.
Misunderstanding Fuel Type: Not specifying the correct type of fuel being purchased can lead to complications. Clearly indicate whether it is diesel oil or liquefied petroleum gas.
Failure to Notify Changes: If there is a change in the intended use of the fuel, such as switching from highway to off-highway use, the distributor must be informed. Neglecting to do so may lead to penalties.
Not Providing Required Copies: The form must be prepared in triplicate. Ensure that one copy goes to the distributor, one to the tax office, and one is retained by the taxpayer.
Ignoring Annual Filing Requirements: The Exemption Certificate should be furnished annually or whenever there is a change in fuel use. Failing to submit the form on time can result in tax liabilities.
The Hawaii M-38 form is a crucial document for individuals and businesses that purchase diesel oil and liquefied petroleum gas for use off public highways. This exemption certificate allows for tax relief under specific conditions. Several other forms and documents are often used in conjunction with the M-38 to ensure compliance with state tax laws and regulations. Below is a list of related documents that may be relevant.
Understanding these forms and documents is essential for compliance with Hawaii's tax laws regarding fuel usage. Proper documentation helps avoid penalties and ensures that businesses and individuals can take advantage of available exemptions and refunds.
The Hawaii M-38 form serves as an exemption certificate for diesel oil and liquefied petroleum gas used off public highways. A similar document is the IRS Form 8849, which is used for claiming refunds of certain excise taxes. Both forms require the user to provide specific information about the type of fuel and its intended use. While the M-38 focuses on state-level fuel tax exemptions, Form 8849 allows taxpayers to seek refunds for federal excise taxes, demonstrating a parallel purpose of tax relief based on the use of fuel.
Another comparable document is the California Fuel Tax Exemption Certificate. This certificate is issued to purchasers of fuel who intend to use it for exempt purposes, similar to the M-38. Both forms require the user to affirm that the fuel will not be used on public highways, and misuse of either certificate can lead to penalties. The state-specific nature of these forms highlights how different jurisdictions manage fuel tax exemptions while maintaining similar foundational principles.
The Texas Exemption Certificate for Motor Fuels is also akin to the Hawaii M-38 form. This document is utilized by purchasers who wish to claim an exemption from fuel taxes for specific uses, such as agricultural or off-highway purposes. Both forms necessitate that users declare the intended use of the fuel, and both emphasize the importance of accuracy and compliance to avoid penalties. This illustrates how various states have tailored their exemption forms to meet local needs while adhering to a common framework.
The New York State Fuel Tax Exemption Certificate shares similarities with the M-38 form as well. It allows users to claim exemptions based on the intended use of fuel, particularly for off-highway applications. Both documents require detailed information about the user and the type of fuel, ensuring that the exemptions are applied correctly. The New York form also includes penalties for misuse, reinforcing the importance of adhering to the rules set forth by the state.
The Florida Department of Revenue also has an exemption certificate for fuel taxes that aligns with the M-38 form. This document is designed for purchasers who use fuel in exempt situations, such as agricultural operations. Both forms require users to declare their intended use and provide identifying information. The focus on specific use cases illustrates a common approach among states in managing fuel tax exemptions while ensuring compliance with tax laws.
In Illinois, the Motor Fuel Tax Exemption Certificate serves a similar purpose to the Hawaii M-38. It allows users to claim exemptions for fuel used in specific non-highway activities. Both forms emphasize the necessity of accurate information and the potential for penalties if misused. This reflects a broader trend across states to establish clear guidelines for fuel tax exemptions while protecting tax revenues.
The Massachusetts Fuel Tax Exemption Certificate is another document that parallels the M-38 form. It is used to exempt fuel from taxes based on its intended use, particularly for off-highway purposes. Both forms require users to provide detailed information about the fuel and its intended application. This consistency across states highlights a shared goal of ensuring that tax exemptions are granted only when appropriate and justified.
The Michigan Fuel Tax Exemption Certificate also resembles the Hawaii M-38 form in its purpose and requirements. This document allows users to claim exemptions based on specific uses of fuel, such as for agricultural purposes. Both forms require a declaration of intended use and include stipulations regarding penalties for misuse. This commonality underscores the importance of maintaining compliance with state tax regulations.
Finally, the Pennsylvania Exemption Certificate for Motor Fuels aligns with the M-38 form in its function. It allows for the exemption of fuel taxes based on the intended use, specifically for non-highway applications. Both forms require detailed information and a declaration of intent, emphasizing the necessity of accurate reporting to avoid penalties. This reflects a broader trend among states to create standardized processes for managing fuel tax exemptions.
When filling out the Hawaii M-38 form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues. Below are four key do's and don'ts to consider:
Understanding the Hawaii M 38 form is crucial for compliance with state regulations regarding fuel use. However, several misconceptions often lead to confusion. Here are eight common misunderstandings:
Addressing these misconceptions can help ensure proper compliance with Hawaii's fuel tax regulations and prevent unnecessary penalties.
When dealing with the Hawaii M-38 form, it's essential to understand its purpose and the requirements involved. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
Understanding these points will help ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary penalties. Always keep accurate records and stay informed about your obligations regarding fuel use in Hawaii.