FAQ's - Drivers

Will I have to pay more taxes at the end of the year?

No, per diem is a non-taxable reimbursement that actually lowers your income taxes.

I'm an owner / operator and need an accounting of my per diem for income tax purposes. How can I get year-end report for my accountant?

On the homepage, click on “Information Portal” tab, then click “Drivers – O/O”, select the “Driver Substantiation Request Form”. Complete the form and Atlantic HR Solutions will send you an annual per diem report for M&IE and Lodging  you received for the specified tax year. This is a FREE service.

What if I don’t spend all my per diem?

The per diem rates established by your employer are the maximum reimbursements amounts you are entitled to receive under the accountable plan. Whether you spend all, some or more than the established per diem rate is of no consequence.

How will reducing my W-2 wages affect a loan application?

All banks are different. Many are concerned with your take home pay and not your gross wages.

Why shouldn’t I just take per diem on my tax return at the end of the year?

You will pay more in taxes and you will be required to retain all of your substantiation, plus you can only claim 80% of your meals and incidental per diem at the end of the year. And any lodging expenses claimed will require a receipt.

I drove 70 hours this week, but I did not get my per diem?

It is likely that you did not timely confirm your HOS log.

Can I claim per diem on my income tax return?

No, per diem is a nontaxable reimbursement that is not reported on your W-2 or tax return.