Mileage Deduction Calculator
Enter your business miles to see the deduction value at the IRS standard rate.
Runs entirely in your browser — your numbers never leave this page.
How it works
The standard mileage rate turns your odometer into a tax deduction:
- 2026 rate: $0.725/mile — set annually by the IRS; it bundles gas, depreciation, insurance, and maintenance.
- What counts: client visits, job sites, supply runs, business errands. Commuting doesn't — home to your regular workplace is never deductible.
- Actual expenses alternative: deduct real costs (gas, repairs, insurance × business-use %) instead — better for expensive vehicles driven heavily for business.
- The log is everything: date, destination, business purpose, miles. Apps make it painless; reconstructing it in an audit is not.
- Employees: W-2 employees can't deduct mileage (suspended since 2018) — only the self-employed and businesses.
Frequently asked questions
What is the IRS mileage rate for 2026?
$0.725 per mile for business use. The IRS adjusts it annually.
Can I deduct commuting miles?
No — driving from home to your regular workplace is commuting and never deductible. Business travel beyond that counts.
Standard mileage vs actual expenses?
Standard is simpler and often wins for economical cars; actual expenses win for expensive vehicles with high business use. Pick one per vehicle per year.
Do I need a mileage log?
Yes — date, destination, purpose, and miles for each trip. It's the first thing an auditor asks for.
Can W-2 employees deduct mileage?
No — unreimbursed employee expenses were suspended 2018–2025 and remain so. Only self-employed/business use qualifies.
What if my employer reimburses me?
Reimbursements under an accountable plan are tax-free and you don't deduct — you can't double-dip.
Does it cover depreciation?
Yes — the standard rate bundles depreciation, gas, insurance, and maintenance. That's why you can't also deduct those separately.
Can I switch methods year to year?
Generally yes per vehicle, with restrictions — once you use actual expenses with accelerated depreciation, switching back is limited.
What about a home office?
With a qualifying home office, trips from home to clients become deductible business miles instead of commuting.
Are tolls and parking deductible too?
Yes — separately, on top of the mileage rate. Keep those receipts.