Between long hauls, tight schedules, and holiday deliveries, the holidays can sneak up fast. But before you shift into full Thanksgiving mode, wherever the road takes you, it’s worth carving out a little time for tax planning. Good tax planning isn’t just about filing on time — it’s about setting yourself up for fewer surprises and more savings. As 2025 winds down, here are a few smart ways truck drivers can use year-end planning to drive their business forward.

1. Know Where You Stand Financially

Start by looking at your year-to-date income and expenses. This gives you a clearer picture of where you’re at financially and whether you may owe tax or receive a refund.

2. Make Strategic Purchases Before December 31

If you’ve been planning to buy new equipment, tools, or technology, doing so before the end of the year could help you reduce taxable income.

The key is to spend with strategy, not spontaneity. Your accountant can help you decide whether making a purchase this year (versus waiting until next) makes the most sense for your specific tax situation.

3. Review Your Estimated Tax Payments

If your income fluctuates throughout the year, it’s easy to fall behind on estimated tax payments. Check in now to make sure you’re caught up, or to make an adjustment before December 31.

Paying the right amount can help you avoid penalties and interest, while also giving you peace of mind heading into tax season.

4. Revisit Your Business Structure

As your trucking business grows, your business structure might need to evolve too. Are you still set up as a sole proprietor, or would forming an LLC or electing S-Corp status make more sense from a tax standpoint?

Year-end is a great time to talk through those options with a transportation-focused tax professional who can help you evaluate what’s best for your goals.

5. Maximize Retirement Contributions

Even if you’re on the road most of the year, don’t forget about your future self. Contributing to a retirement account (like a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k)) can lower your taxable income and help you build long-term security.

These contributions can often be made up until the tax filing deadline, but reviewing your options now gives you time to plan and make the most of your contributions.

6. Plan with a Partner Who Knows Trucking

No two tax plans look the same, especially in the transportation world. From fluctuating income to industry-specific deductions, having a tax team that understands life on the road makes all the difference.

At Abacus!, we help truck drivers plan ahead, not just react. Our team specializes in transportation tax, helping you make confident decisions before the year ends, so you can start the new year on solid ground.