23 Tax Write-Offs for Truck Drivers

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As a trucker, you've likely got a good internal compass that helps you get from Point A to Point B. But that might not stop the tax-filing process from feeling like a disorienting maze.

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Keeper is here to help you keep on trucking! Starting with this list of write-offs for owner-operators. From union dues and truck maintenance to a new GPS, claiming your business expenses can help significantly lower your tax bill. Read on for more examples that will steer you to savings.

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Vehicle tool kit
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 22

Flashlights, tire iron, duct tape, and other tools you may need in your vehicle are deductible.

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GPS system
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 22

Any type of GPS system you use while driving your truck is a write-off.

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Cleaning supplies
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 22

Write off everything you use to clean, including sprays, rags, soap, and more.

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Union dues
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 27a

If you belong to a union, go ahead and write off your dues.

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Truck maintenance
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 9

Routine and emergency maintenance for your truck can be written off on your taxes.

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Cargo & liability insurance
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 15

If you pay for policies to protect your trucking business, feel free to write off those costs.

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FMCSA fees
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 10

Need to pay the FMCSA to keep your USDOT number updated?Β That counts as a business expense.

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If you drive for work ...

If you drive to make deliveries or to bring the truck in for maintenance, feel free to write off your vehicle expenses.

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Parking
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 27a

Parking for a meeting downtown, or any other work trip, is tax-deductible!

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Tolls
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 27a

A toll while driving to or from a work destination is tax-deductible!

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Car purchase & depreciation
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 13

If you buy a new car, you can write off part of the cost every year for five years.

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Vehicle tool kit
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 22

Flashlights, tire iron, duct tape, and other tools you may need in your vehicle are deductible.

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Car insurance & registration
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 15

Car insurance monthly fees, registration, even roadside assistance are partially deductible.

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Car maintenance
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 9

Oil changes, repairs, and regular checkups are all tax-deductible if you drive for work.

If you discuss work at a restaurant ...

If you buy food while on the road making a delivery or grab food or drinks with fellow truck drivers, you can write off the costs.

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Business meals
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 24b

If you discuss work with a coworker, mentor, client, or prospective client, it's a write-off!

If you leave town for work ...

Driving to make an out-of-town delivery counts as a business trip so costs like lodging or meals can be written off.

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Transportation
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 24a

Planes, trains, and car rentals are all work-related travel costs that can be written off.

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Travel lodging
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 24a

When you travel for work, lodging expenses such as hotel rooms or Airbnb are write offs.

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Meals while traveling
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 24a

When you're traveling for work, all meals are tax-deductible. Even takeout!

If you work from home ...

When you're not on the road, you might take care of necessary admin work from an at-home workspace, like conducting trucking industry research or managing client paperwork.

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If that's you, you can claim home office expenses.

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Home office furniture
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 18

A desk, chairs, lamps, and other home office necessities are all tax write-offs.

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Property repairs
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 21

You can write off up to $2,500 for individual repairs to your property.

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Power bill
Write it off using:

Form 8829

Gotta keep the lights on in your home office! A portion of your electricity bill counts.

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Property insurance
Write it off using:

Form 8829

Whether it's rental or homeowners insurance, you can write off a portion through your home office deduction.

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Water bill
Write it off using:

Form 8829

It'd be hard to work in an office without running water, huh? You water bill counts.

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Wi-Fi bill
Write it off using:

Schedule C, Box 25

Your Comcast bill is a tax write-off. You need internet to do your job!