Truck drivers - claiming work-related expenses

Short-haul and local drivers

Short-haul and local drivers usually return home at the end of a day's work.

For information when a driver stays away overnight, see Long-haul drivers.

When you can make a claim

In most situations, you can claim deductions for work-related expenses as long as:

• you incurred the expense in doing your job
• the expense is not private (for example, travel to and from work)
• you can show you incurred the expense by producing receipts or other written evidence unless an exception applies.

However, there are some instances where you have to meet other conditions, some of which are mentioned below.

Claim the correct amount for the year

• You must have incurred the expense in the year you are claiming the deduction, unless the expense relates to the decline in value (depreciation) of tools or equipment you purchased.
• When claiming the decline in value of your tools or equipment, you must have used them or had them available for use in the year you are making the claim.
• You can only claim that part of an expense that relates to your work.

Remember When you complete the declaration on your tax return you are declaring that everything you have told us is true and you can support your claims with written evidence. You are responsible for providing proof of your expenses, even if you use a registered tax agent.

Sections within Short-haul and local drivers

• Allowances
• Reimbursements
• Evidence to support your claims
• Claiming overtime meal expenses