Interesting per diem question

Since you might not be eligible for the "per diem" deduction, you would still be eligible to deduct the actual cost for any "food" item you buy. Snacks and munchies are still deductable. The EASIEST way to keep track is to buy everything using a debit card and use copies of your monthly statements as "proof" you actually bought something.

 

No, you CAN'T "mix" actual expenses (using receipts) and "per diem". You have to use one or the other.

 

Sorry, but you can.

 

If you are not eligible for the per diem, you are not eligible for travel expenses. This is due to the regs considering you as a local person. Local people have the options of eating at home or taking their lunch.

 

That is a problem. There are alot of people that prepare returns that should not be. But when you are dealing with the trucking industry, there are preparers that do not have a clue. It is unfortunate but it is something you guys have to be aware of.

 

Anytime that you go out overnight, keep a detail sheet that shows day out, away, and day returning. The log book would substantiate it as well. But alot of times the locals don't run them due to the distance requirement.

 

So, I can take the "standard deduction"..... THEN deduct the actual cost for every meal/sandwich/box of cookies/coffee/soda too? I know that other things like cleaning supplies and such are deductable as well.....

 

I don't know where you get that. It is done all of the time. I know of nothing that would stop me from taking the deductions.