Around the clubhouse turn… into the stretch

Zombi.... First of all, I've enjoyed reading your posts, and hope and trust you will keep up posted as you begin your new career. And great respect to all drivers out there for doing what you do. America "needs their stuff", so THANK YOU!

I tried and failed at trucking. Well, more like tried and gave up. I was only in the truck a week and found that it wasn't a lifestyle I could handle. A lot of responsibility, very long hours, and personal sacrifice. Stack that against the money and it just wasn't worth it to me. I used to think that if I had someone who took training seriously, I might have been able to make a go of it. Now I realize that even if I had gotten past the initial shock and adapted, I doubt I would have been truly happy driving.

So now I read you're on your way. Asking for opinions and expressing some apprehension. I think most would agree this is absolutely NORMAL. It's going to be a big change for you, maybe the biggest. That's not a bad thing in itself. No, I think change is good, for it's own sake. As for how this plays out for you is anybody guess, but I hope it does. You're really stacking your chips on this bet, and that shows your commitment. That's key. I think desire is at least as important as ability. Skill and experience are something you will pick up. Determination is something you have to bring with you. That's where I went wrong. You have thought this thing through, so don't go gettin' squirlly on us, you're going to be fine! Keep in touch.

 

The only thing I would like to point out is that you will be ineligible for the "per diem" pay tax write off. The $52.00 per day (80% will be deductible) is only for drivers that are "duplicating expenses and are away from their tax home for a rest period." The fact that you put all your stuff in storage leads me to believe you intend to live in the truck. If this is true then just be forewarned about the per diem issue when you go to file your taxes.

Other than that trucking can be a rewarding life style. It is not just a job and you will soon find that out. It takes commitment and dedication as well as a strong work ethic to make the transition. Some adapt easier than others.

Determination to succeed is probably one of the strongest factors Road Dogs have in common.

 

You nailed the perdiem right on the nail there. A home is the requirement. Whether it be rented, owned or whatever. If there is no home, there is no per diem. This is because you cannot be considered traveling away from a home you don't have.

 

What do you use for a home address for bills , banking accounts , etc ? I doubt the IRS looks very closely at residence requirements . Many people are advocates for the Fair Tax which would eliminate the IRS and income tax and replace it with a national sales tax . Sounds good because criminals like drug dealers and prostitutes would finally pay tax on their income . But truck drivers would also lose all their deductions , including per diem .

 

In the event of an audit the IRS will ask you for proof of residency. Such as utility bills IN YOUR NAME, rent receipts IN YOUR NAME, or a mortgage statement (again) IN YOUR NAME.

You seem to be well aware of the IRS' enforcement techniques so I would not take a chance. Tax evaders go to jail if they do not pay up.

I don't know you personally but I know I am out here to make money. Paying taxes is just part of being a US citizen.

Now here is a suggestion. Rent or buy a house in your name and then get a room mate to house sit while you are on the road. The per diem allowance for 300 days on the road equates to 300x$52.00x.80%= $12,480.00 deduction. Live in your truck and you FORFEIT that 12 grand and put yourself in a HIGHER tax bracket to boot.

 

Sorry Rick. In the process of an IRS audit, the IRS looks at many things. The main thing they look at is are you living within your means. No house is a flag. I have been able on many audits to alter the site to a neutral location. The IRS agent DID do a drive by the house. I saw him.

By the way, I have dealt with numerous audits, so it is not a one time experience. Enrolled agent to practice before the IRS.