Truck drivers and owner-operators work hard for their money. Unfortunately, some trucking companies make improper deductions from their pay—leaving drivers shortchanged and frustrated. If you’re in the industry, it’s important to understand what deductions are legal, what aren’t, and what you can do if your paycheck doesn’t match what you’ve earned.

1. The Basics: What the Law Requires

Federal regulations require motor carriers to be transparent in how they pay drivers, especially those working under lease agreements. The law says:

• You must be paid in a timely manner, usually within 15 days of submitting necessary paperwork.
• Any deductions from your pay must be clearly spelled out in your lease or agreement.
• If escrow funds are withheld—for things like equipment or repairs—those funds must be properly accounted for and returned when the lease ends.
• Carriers must provide documentation to support any deductions, such as freight bills or repair receipts.

These rules are designed to protect drivers from unfair and hidden charges that eat into their hard-earned wages.

2. Common Improper Deductions

Some of the most frequent issues include:

• Deductions for escrow, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and Electronic Logging Device fees that were not agreed to in the lease
• Unexplained repair charges
• Missing or unclear settlement statements
• Withholding escrow funds without explanation or delay in returning them
• Late or incomplete payments

Improper deductions are not just frustrating—they’re illegal. Carriers cannot take money from your check without your clear, written consent and must provide documentation to justify any deductions.

3. Lease-Purchase Drivers Are Especially at Risk

Drivers working under lease-purchase arrangements are particularly vulnerable to improper deductions. Some companies use these programs to shift risk onto drivers while maintaining control over how and when they’re paid. Deductions for truck payments, maintenance, or even administrative fees can quickly add up—often without clear disclosure or fair accounting.

If you’re a lease-purchase driver, it’s crucial to understand your rights and closely review your pay statements. What seems like a “standard” deduction may actually be unlawful.

4. What You Can Do

• Keep records. Save copies of all settlements, pay stubs, agreements, and correspondence with your carrier.
• Ask questions. If you see a deduction you don’t understand, request a full explanation in writing.
• Know your rights. Trucking companies are not allowed to make unauthorized deductions or withhold funds without cause.
• Talk to a lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you review your lease and pay records and determine if legal action is warranted.

Think You’ve Been Cheated? Let’s Talk.

If you believe your trucking company has made improper deductions from your pay, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Call our office today at 817.908.9861 to speak with a lawyer who understands the trucking industry and knows how to fight for drivers. Or email Josh at josh@dfwcounsel.com.  We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.