Tax preparation for truckers
Quick answer: Owner-operators carry one of the heaviest paperwork loads in tax. Per diem days, depreciation on the tractor, fuel, and multi-state apportionment all move real money. We keep it organized year-round so settlement statements never pile up.
Per diem for DOT drivers
Drivers subject to hours-of-service rules get a daily meal allowance for nights away. Counting the days right is worth thousands.
Truck depreciation
Tractor and trailer purchases can be expensed or depreciated several ways. The right choice depends on this year and next year, not just this year.
Fuel, maintenance, and insurance
Fuel cards, repairs, tires, washes, and bobtail insurance all reduce taxable income. Settlement statements hide some of it.
Leased vs company vs owner-op
Your tax picture changes completely across these. We sort which expenses belong on your return.
Quarterly estimates
Big quarters mean big estimates. We set them from your settlements so you keep cash flow predictable.
Home office and dispatch costs
Load boards, ELD subscriptions, and a qualifying home office for dispatch and bookkeeping count.
Educational overview, not tax advice. Every deduction here has rules and limits, and a real preparer reviews your actual situation before anything is filed.
How does per diem work for truckers?
Drivers under DOT hours-of-service rules claim a federal daily meal allowance for each qualifying night away from home, at a higher deductible percentage than other taxpayers. A simple calendar of nights out is the record that survives review.
Should I expense the whole truck this year?
Sometimes. Full expensing helps a big-income year but can waste deductions in a lean one and inflate self-employment tax later. We model both before filing.
Do I file in every state I drive through?
No. Driving through a state does not by itself create income tax there for most drivers; your home state and business structure control the filings. We confirm against your settlements.