Keep better records. Protect your deduction.
One year. Two mileage rates.
Your 2026 business miles need two separate totals. A five-minute check today can prevent the wrong calculation at tax time.
The IRS business mileage rate is 72.5 cents per mile for January 1–June 30, 2026, and 76 cents per mile for July 1–December 31, 2026. If you qualify for and use the standard mileage method, match each business mile to the period when it was driven.
Three actions to take today
Split your mileage log
Create one business-mile total through June 30 and another beginning July 1. Export your mileage app’s dated reports rather than relying on one annual number.
Record the purpose
Log the date, business miles, destination or service area, and business purpose promptly. Preserve annual business, commuting, personal, and total mileage.
Avoid counting costs twice
The standard mileage rate generally replaces deductions for gas, repairs, maintenance, insurance, registration, lease payments, and depreciation for the same vehicle and year. Business parking and tolls may be separate.
What does the calculation look like?
Potential mileage deduction: $8,910
This reduces business income used to calculate taxes. It is not an $8,910 refund or payment. Your actual tax effect depends on your circumstances.
Build a record you can support
Keep dated trip records at or near the time you drive. A paper log, spreadsheet, or electronic logging system can work when it adequately documents business use. Beginning- and ending-year odometer readings help reconcile your total mileage.
Platform statements are useful supporting documents, but do not assume they contain your complete business mileage or distinguish all personal driving. Compare them with your own log and investigate missing weeks while the details are fresh.
Personal driving and ordinary commuting generally do not qualify. Turning on an app does not by itself establish the tax treatment of every trip. Ask a qualified tax professional about travel between home and your first or last work location, especially if you claim a qualifying home office.
Check your method before filing
The actual-expense method generally requires vehicle receipts and an allocation between business and personal use. Rules governing the vehicle’s first year of business use, prior depreciation, and leases can affect whether the standard mileage method is available. Confirm eligibility before choosing or switching methods.
Save mileage exports, platform statements, parking receipts, and toll records in one secure folder. Back up your records monthly. Report gig income even when a platform does not issue a Form 1099.
Question for the group
Have you separated your 2026 business miles into the two IRS rate periods, or does your app still show only one annual total?