How to claim a mileage deduction
Depends. The exact method varies by situation, but the core steps are: track business mileage, separate business from personal use, and keep records to support your claim.
← Back to Is mileage tax deductible?
On this page: Short answer · When it applies · When it doesn’t · Example · Records · Related · FAQ
Short answer
Depends. You generally claim a mileage deduction by tracking business miles, calculating the business-use portion, and reporting the deductible amount using the method that applies to your situation.
The most important part is having records that support business purpose and mileage totals (logbook/app).
When it’s more likely deductible
- You drive for a clear business purpose (client visits, job sites, business errands)
- You can separate business vs personal driving
- You keep a logbook or app records with dates, destinations, and purpose
- You have a consistent method for calculating the deductible portion
When it’s not deductible (or risky)
- You treat regular commuting as business mileage
- You estimate mileage without support or reconstruct it inaccurately
- You don’t keep logs or can’t explain trip purpose
- You claim 100% business use when personal use clearly exists
Example
Example: basic claim workflow
- Track all trips for the month (logbook/app)
- Total miles: 900
- Business miles: 540
- Business-use percentage: 60%
Then apply the appropriate method (rate-based or actual expenses) and keep documentation supporting your totals.
What records to keep
- Mileage log with date, destination, business purpose, and distance/odometer readings
- Start/end odometer readings for the year (if you use odometer-based tracking)
- Calendar/appointments or invoices that support business trips
- If claiming vehicle expenses: fuel, maintenance, insurance, and other receipts as applicable
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Tools that can help
Mileage apps can automatically log trips and export reports for your records.
FAQ
How do I claim a mileage deduction?
In general, you claim a mileage deduction by tracking business miles, separating business from personal use, and reporting the deductible portion on your tax return based on the method that applies to your situation.
Do I need a mileage logbook to claim mileage?
Usually yes. A logbook (or mileage tracking app records) helps substantiate business miles, including dates, destinations, and business purpose.
What should be included in a mileage log?
A good mileage log includes the date, start and end location, business purpose, distance (or odometer readings), and totals for the period.
Looking for related deductible expenses? ← See Is mileage tax deductible?
Last reviewed: January 2026