Home / Truck drivers & owner-operators
Accountant for truck drivers and owner-operators in Brampton
Company drivers, owner-operators and small fleets make up a large part of our practice. We prepare driver returns with the TL2 meal claim, keep owner-operator books, file HST on hauling income, and help when CRA reviews a trucking return.
Company drivers (T4)
Long-haul drivers who meet CRA's conditions can claim meal and lodging costs with Form TL2, signed by the employer. We check eligibility, count your trips from your logs, and claim the right amount.
- TL2 meal and lodging claims
- Employment expense claims your employer has certified
- Returns for drivers new to Canada, including prior years
Owner-operators and small fleets
Running your own truck means bookkeeping, HST and a bigger tax bill if nothing is planned. We handle all three.
- Bookkeeping for fuel, repairs, insurance, tolls and lease payments
- Truck and trailer write-offs (class 16) and lease treatment
- HST registration, returns and input tax credits on fuel and repairs
- Charging the right HST on loads that start or end outside Ontario
- Incorporation and owner pay planning
- Paperwork for truck and trailer financing
When CRA reviews a trucking return
Meal claims, fuel receipts and ITCs on equipment are what auditors look at first in trucking files. We prepare the ITC listings and invoice packages CRA asks for and deal with the auditor for you. More on CRA audits →
Common questions
Can a company truck driver claim meals?
If you are a long-haul driver who meets CRA's conditions and your employer completes and signs Form TL2, you can claim a portion of your meal and lodging costs on your personal return. Eligible long-haul truck drivers can deduct 80% of meal costs instead of the usual 50%.
How do I write off my truck as an owner-operator?
Heavy trucks and tractors that haul freight generally go in capital cost allowance class 16, which is depreciated at 40% a year on a declining balance. Leased trucks are handled differently, so bring your purchase or lease agreement.
Should I incorporate my trucking business?
Many owner-operators benefit once profits are consistently more than they need to live on. We compare the tax both ways with your actual numbers before you decide.
What records do I need for meal claims?
Keep trip records that show when you left and returned, such as logbook or ELD records, along with receipts or the simplified method CRA allows. These are the first things an auditor asks for.
Driving, not doing paperwork?
Send us your slips and logs. We'll tell you what you can claim.