Question 1

What is the standard mileage rate for 2024?

Accepted Answer

The IRS standard mileage rate for business driving is 67 cents per mile for 2024 (IRS Notice 2024-08). Medical and moving mileage is 21 cents/mile; charitable driving is 14 cents/mile.

Question 2

Can I deduct commuting mileage to my regular workplace?

Accepted Answer

No. Driving from home to a regular, fixed office is personal commuting and is not deductible. Deductible business mileage includes driving between job sites, to client locations, to the bank for business, and for business errands.

Question 3

Should I use actual expenses or the standard mileage rate?

Accepted Answer

Standard mileage is simpler and often sufficient. Actual expenses (gas, oil, depreciation, insurance, repairs, registration) can yield a larger deduction for expensive vehicles, vehicles driven very few miles, or EVs with high lease values. You must choose at the start of the vehicle's business use.

Question 4

Do I need a mileage log for the IRS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The IRS requires a contemporaneous record — ideally kept in real time — showing the date, destination, business purpose, and number of miles for each trip. Apps like MileIQ or a simple spreadsheet work; relying on memory or estimates in April does not satisfy the requirement.

Mileage Deduction Calculator