Large income tax returns

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by foukemonster, Jul 27, 2014.

  1. foukemonster

    foukemonster Bobtail Member

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    I have heard that company OTR drivers get $65 per day tax break that they spend on the road if they do not opt for company per diem. I would think that this could end up in huge tax returns... I am just curious if this is true. Can I expect to start getting pretty big tax returns or has someone been pulling my leg, so to speak.
     
    iamchrisstone Thanks this.
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  3. Ridgeline

    Ridgeline Road Train Member

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    I think it is 80% of $59 per day that you are out. I don't know about that big tax return thing.
     
  4. Balakov100

    Balakov100 Road Train Member

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    It's 80% of that.
    For the days you're away from home.

    And don't expect to be getting large tax returns all of a sudden either.

    Edit
    Best way to get a big ### Tax Return... Get busy
    . Have lots of kids.
     
  5. gentleroger

    gentleroger Road Train Member

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    Do a search for per diem and you'll find lots of threads with details but yes you can deduct 80% of $59 for each full day and 60% for a partial day (start or end in home of record).

    IMO a large tax return is a sign of poor financial management. You should be adjusting your with holding so that any return is less than $1,000 or you have to pay in less than $500. That way you have access to YOUR money all year instead of giving an interest free loan to the government.
     
  6. Florida Playboy

    Florida Playboy Road Train Member

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    The best way to get a large tax return is don't claim any exemptions and so you pay as much as possible during the year. Think of it as a savings plan. Then again wouldn't it just make more sense to pay around what you're supposed to so at tax time you're more or less equal? That way you have your money right away not next April. However many people have no impulse control when it comes to saving money so they need a forced savings plan like a W-2.
     
  7. foukemonster

    foukemonster Bobtail Member

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    I tend to think of it as using the government as a savings account that I cash out every year, but your point is well taken.

    I appreciate the info you all have given me. After 22 years as a chef I begin my driving career tomorrow morning. Day one of orientation, I am very excited about being a driver and have found so much helpful information on this site, thanks goes out to all of you helping us FNGs out.
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  8. HotH2o

    HotH2o Road Train Member

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    Depending on your tax situation the standard deduction may be more than the $59 per day deduction.
     
    double yellow Thanks this.
  9. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    Good luck with that attitude. One day, the federal government is going to decide they need that money more then you do. If you really want to "save money" and have it accessible at some point, pay off debt MONTHLY and invest in YOURSELF and your family. Currency is being devalued so fast with current economic and currency policy, you're better off spending it as you earn it because it is literally evaporating before your very eyes.
     
  10. foukemonster

    foukemonster Bobtail Member

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    Again point well made. And I indeed share your concerns. My house, land, and vehicles are all paid off. I don't owe a dime to anyone. My wife and are taking this into serious consideration, as to which way to do this. since we don't have many bills, we usually tend to claim very little if any so we can have a return every year, but we are both starting to realize that maybe it would be better (and safer) to get the money every week instead and save it in a more trust worthy fashion.

    Thanks again for all the advice and info.
     
  11. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Which company will you drive for?
     
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