Truckers who travel away from home overnight can claim a daily meal allowance instead of saving receipts for every meal. 2025 Per Diem Rate: $69/day for U.S. travel (subject to IRS updates). Keep a log of your travel days and routes — the IRS requires proof that you were away from your tax hom
Fuel is one of the biggest expenses in trucking, and it’s fully deductible. Include: Diesel/gasoline Oil changes Tires, filters, and repairs Truck washing and detailing Keep itemized receipts and mileage records to support every deduction.
If you lease or finance your rig, you can deduct part of your payments. Leased truck: full lease payments are deductible. Owned truck: you can depreciate it over time under IRS Section 179 or bonus depreciation rules.
tems like trailers, GPS units, CB radios, and even dash cams can be depreciated. In 2025, Section 179 still allows most truckers to deduct up to $1,220,000 in equipment costs (subject to phase-outs). This is a major benefit for owner-operators investing in new or upgraded gear.
If you stay overnight while hauling, hotel or motel costs are deductible. You can also deduct parking fees, tolls, and showers — but not personal entertainment or upgrades like premium channels or room service.
Truckers can deduct premiums for: Liability insurance Cargo insurance Occupational accident insurance Health insurance (if self-employed) Make sure policies are tied to your business activity.
Renewal fees for your CDL, IRP, IFTA, and other state/federal permits are deductible. So are weigh station fees, DOT physicals, and drug testing costs.
Business phones, tablets, ELDs, satellite radios, and Wi-Fi subscriptions all qualify. If you use your phone for both personal and business reasons, deduct only the percentage used for work.
Even if your “office” is your cab, you can still deduct: Logbooks Notebooks Pens, envelopes, stamps Laptop and printer Accounting or tax prep software Fees paid to tax professionals or bookkeeping services
Contributing to a SEP IRA, Solo 401(k), or SIMPLE IRA lowers your taxable income while building long-term savings. These plans offer flexible contribution limits — perfect for independent contractors with variable income.
The IRS loves documentation. Use an accounting app, spreadsheet, or bookkeeping services to track your receipts and mileage. Receipts Mileage logs Travel calendar Bank and credit card statements Clean records = faster filing and higher refunds.
Truckers work hard, and the tax code rewards you for running your own business wisely.
Understanding these deductions can save thousands every year — but every situation is unique.
Always consult a tax professional who specializes in trucking and transportation to make sure you’re getting every deduction you deserve.
Author: Team JUMA
Published by: JUMA Accounting Solutions
Waterbury, CT | Serving truckers nationwide
