What Happens If a Truck Driver Gets Audited by the IRS?

What Happens If a Truck Driver Gets Audited by the IRS? Receiving notice of an IRS audit is something no truck driver wants to experience, but it can happen—even if you think you’ve filed everything correctly. Truck drivers and owner-operators, in particular, are more likely to be audited due to the complexities of self-employment income, multiple deductions, and cash-heavy operations. Understanding what happens during an audit, how to prepare, and how to respond can make a major difference in the outcome. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself facing an IRS audit. 1. Why the IRS Might Audit a Truck Driver There are several common triggers that can prompt an audit for truck drivers: Large or unusual deductions (especially for fuel, meals, lodging, or repairs) Reporting significantly less income than expected for your industry Inconsistencies between your reported income and 1099s received from carriers Poor recordkeeping or mat...