My cousin learned the hard way that the IRS requires a contemporaneous mileage log—not one created at the end of the year. After almost getting audited, he started tracking every trip immediately. Now he uses this tracker, and I'm sharing it with you.
This tool helps you track business miles throughout the year, calculate deductions at current IRS rates, and export complete logs for tax filing. All data stays in your browser—nothing is sent to any server.
⚠️ Audit Protection: What the IRS Looks For
Missing dates or purposes
Inconsistent mileage (odometer readings don't match logs)
Lumping multiple trips together
Claiming commute miles as business
Creating logs after audit notice
The IRS requires a contemporaneous log—meaning you track trips as they happen, not at year-end. This tracker is designed for that.
What's the current IRS mileage rate for 2024?
The 2024 standard mileage rate is 67¢ per business mile. The 2025 rate hasn't been announced yet but typically adjusts for inflation. This tracker defaults to 67¢ but you can adjust it.
Can I deduct mileage to and from my regular job?
No. Commuting from home to your regular place of work is considered personal, not business, mileage. However, trips from your office to client sites are deductible.
What records does the IRS require for mileage?
The IRS requires: date of trip, starting point, destination, business purpose, and number of miles. A contemporaneous log (recorded at the time) is strongly preferred over year-end summaries.
Should I use standard mileage or actual expenses?
Calculate both. Standard mileage is simpler. Actual expenses may be higher if you have an expensive vehicle, high maintenance costs, or significant depreciation. You must choose the method in the first year you use the vehicle for business.
What if I use multiple vehicles for business?
Track each vehicle separately. You can use different methods for different vehicles, but once you choose a method for a vehicle, you generally must stick with it.
Can I deduct mileage for Uber/Lyft driving?
Yes, but with special rules. You can deduct miles while you have a passenger, miles driving to pick up a passenger, and waiting time. You cannot deduct commuting to your driving area.
What happens if I get audited and don't have a log?
The IRS may disallow all your mileage deductions. Some courts accept reconstructed logs if you have supporting evidence (calendar entries, appointment books), but it's risky. Keep a contemporaneous log!
How do I report mileage on my taxes?
For self-employed: report on Schedule C, line 9. For employees: through 2025, employee business expenses are not deductible. For farmers: Schedule F. Use the "Tax Format" export for proper formatting.
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About David
My cousin almost got audited because he created his mileage log at the end of the year—the IRS can tell. After that scare, we built this tracker together. Now he adds trips as they happen, and his records are audit-proof. I hope this tool helps you avoid the same mistake.
I'm not a CPA. This information comes from IRS Publication 463 (Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses). Always verify with a professional for your specific situation.