I wasn't entirely clear but I was assuming and llc or s corp entity for both the Montana registration and rents comments. When I said that I was surprised at how much in taxes many tradespeople pay I also meant to say or was implying that one should form an llc or s corp. There are very few people who are not throwing money away working as a sole proprietor.
Kwired yes thats exactly what I am saying. According to my acct who is a lawyer and a cpa, the irs wants to see at least 10 grand of salary from an llc and the rest can be reimbursements or "rents". Rewire sorry you are probably a damn good electrician but I think my accountant is right here
Regarding tbe vehicles, it must be owned by the llc and the llc must be registeted with the secretary of state in montana. You john Smith or whatever do not own the vehicle - that is the key. It doesnt matter where you live or what state drivers license you have. your state probably doesnt like this but they cant do anything about it. I have montana platea on two trucks, two motorcycles, and a dump trailer. In true code forum fashion I would say cite me your states law that says you cant do this