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2026 Mileage Deductions: What You Need to Know for Accurate Tax Reporting

Every year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) releases updated standard mileage rates, adjusted for inflation, to guide taxpayers in calculating deductible automobile operating costs. The 2026 figures, effective January 1, have just been announced.Image 1

The 2026 standard mileage rates for vehicles used for business, charitable activities, and certain medical or moving purposes are as follows:

  • Business Use: 72.5 cents per mile—up from 70 cents in 2025. This rate incorporates a 35-cent-per-mile block for depreciation.

  • Medical and Moving Purposes: 20.5 cents per mile—a small dip from 21 cents in the previous year.

  • Charitable Service: 14 cents per mile. Notably, this rate has remained unchanged for over 25 years due to statutory regulations.

The business mileage rate is derived from an annual review of both fixed and variable vehicle operation costs. Meanwhile, medical and moving rates are based purely on variable costs. The rate for charitable use is set by law and can only be modified via Congressional action. It's crucial to note that moving expenses have largely been rendered non-deductible by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), except for certain military and intelligence community members.Image 2

Taxpayers intending to use a personal vehicle for charitable work might opt to deduct specific out-of-pocket expenses—like gas and oil—over the 14-cent rate. General repairs, maintenance expenses, and other costs such as insurance don’t qualify for deductions.

Navigating Vehicle Deductions for Business
For businesses, both the standard mileage rates and the actual expense method (considering elements like fuel costs, bonus depreciation, and Section 179 deductions) are options to explore, especially as economic conditions fluctuate. As of 2025, bonus depreciation returned to 100% after a temporary decrease.Image 3

However, switching between methods is restricted. Once the actual expense method is used, reverting to the standard mileage rate isn’t allowed on the same vehicle. Limitations also apply to vehicles for hire and fleets of more than four vehicles.

Overlooked by many is the fact that business-related parking costs, tolls, and property taxes are deductible alongside standard mileage rates.

Employer Reimbursements
Reimbursements for business mileage are tax-free when the employee thoroughly documents aspects like time, place, mileage, and purpose.

Employee Expenses
Due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, employees lost the ability to itemize vehicle-related expenses, except for those in reserved military roles, fee-based officials, eligible educators, and some performers. These groups may still adjust their income for these costs.

Considerations for the Self-Employed
Self-employed individuals can deduct the business use of a vehicle using either method. They also have the opportunity to deduct a portion of auto loan interest costs on their Schedule C.

SUVs and Heavy Vehicles
Heavier vehicles, like many SUVs exceeding 6,000 pounds, qualify for substantial deductions under Section 179 and bonus depreciation rules. These deductions can offer significant tax benefits in the first year of ownership. However, caution is advised, as vehicles disposed of before the 5-year period ends may entail recapture of deductions.

If you have any questions on vehicle deduction methods or documenting your business mileage comprehensively, reach out to our office for informed guidance.

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