Long-haul truckers spend days or even weeks on the road, making meal expenses a significant cost. Fortunately, the IRS allows truck drivers to deduct meal expenses using the per diem method or actual expense tracking. Understanding how to claim these deductions properly can help reduce taxable income and maximize savings.

Per Diem Method: A Simplified Approach

The per diem method is the most common and convenient way for truck drivers to deduct meal expenses. Instead of keeping individual receipts for every meal, the IRS sets a standard daily rate that truckers can claim when they are away from home for work.

• For 2024, the per diem rate for meals is $69 per full day of travel within the U.S.

• If a trip only lasts part of a day, drivers can claim 75% of the per diem rate for that day.

• Per diem deductions are only available for overnight trips, meaning you must be away long enough to require rest before returning home.

Using the per diem method simplifies record-keeping, as truckers only need to log their travel dates rather than saving every receipt. However, it is essential to maintain a detailed travel log, including trip dates, destinations, and the purpose of travel.

Actual Expense Method: Tracking Every Meal

Alternatively, truck drivers can use the actual expense method, which requires keeping receipts for every meal purchased on the road. While this method allows for more flexibility, it also involves more paperwork and record-keeping.

Some key points to remember when using the actual expense method:

• Only 50% of meal expenses are deductible for tax purposes.

• Expenses must be directly related to work travel and not for personal use.

• Keeping organized records, including receipts and a log of business-related meals, is crucial.

The actual expense method may be beneficial for truckers who frequently spend less than the per diem rate on meals. However, for most long-haul drivers, the per diem method provides higher and easier-to-claim deductions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Truck drivers should be aware of common mistakes that can lead to missed deductions or IRS audits:

• Claiming per diem on non-qualifying days – You must be away overnight for work-related travel.

• Failing to keep accurate logs – The IRS may require proof of travel dates and destinations.

• Mixing personal and business expenses – Meals purchased for non-work-related trips are not deductible.

Getting Professional Tax Help

To ensure compliance with IRS rules and maximize deductions, many truck drivers seek assistance from experts offering tax service for truck drivers. These professionals understand the unique tax laws affecting truckers and can help navigate per diem rules, actual expenses, and other deductions.

Final Thoughts

Meal deductions can lead to substantial tax savings for long-haul truckers, but it's essential to follow IRS guidelines. Whether using the per diem method or tracking actual expenses, accurate record-keeping is key. Consulting tax professionals specializing in trucking can further ensure that all eligible deductions are claimed while staying compliant with tax regulations.