Q. I am a company driver. What is deductible when Im on the road?
A. While self-employed individuals can generally deduct any expenses incurred to earn their income, company drivers are limited to non-reimbursed expenses required by their employer. You are entitled to per diem for overnights and motel expenses. A good rule to follow for deductions would be any expenses incurred that are necessary or required in the performance of your job and/or operation of the truck but are not reimbursed by your company, such as uniforms, gloves, logbooks, maps, cell phone, CB, tools, Windex, paper towels, showers, etc. Remember, as a company driver, these deductions are only available if you itemize and are not available if you take the standard deduction.
Q.What is the per diem rate?
A.The per diem rate for meals in 2014 is 80% of $59 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2013 was 80% of $59 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2012 was 80% of $59 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2011 was 80% of $59 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2010 was 80% of $59 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2009 was 80% of $52 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2008 was 80% of $52 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2007 was 75% of $52 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2006 was 75% of $52 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2005 was 70% of $41 per day.
The per diem rate for meals in 2004 was 70% of $41 per day.
The per diem rate for meals when in Canada is 80% of $65 per day
Per Diem can only be taken when the driver spends the night away from home.