How To Keep an IRS Compliant Mileage Log For Taxes

What is a mileage log book?

If you sometimes use your car to meet a client, go to a conference, get supplies for your office or similar, then you would likely be able to get a deduction for those trips at tax time.

This is where a mileage log book comes in and helps you get the deduction you are entitled to.

A mileage log book is a record you keep for tracking distances traveled for work purposes. A logbook can help you deduct expenses from your tax payments, whether you are self-employed, or own a small business.

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Why you should keep a mileage log for taxes

If you don't have a mileage log book and the IRS audits you, the authority may reject your claims for automobile vehicle costs. You can ensure that the IRS has no excuse not to reimburse you the amount you are entitled to by following our mileage log advice. According to the IRS, keeping a mileage log book is the most effective way to ensure that you have proof in the event of an audit.

What to record in your mileage log book

Regardless of your employment situation, you will almost certainly have to keep track of the following:

Total mileage for the year
Odometer readings at the start and end of the year
Mileage for each business trip
Time of the drip (the day will suffice)
Place (your destination)
Purpose of the trip

It is also necessary that the record be kept up to date. This implies that it must be completed at or near the time of departure. Anything that is updated once a week is generally considered sufficient.

Read more in-depth about mileage log requirements in the US.

Where to buy a mileage log for your taxes

You can buy a regular mileage log book either online or at most office supply shops for as little as $5. However, it is not necessary for you to buy a logbook as you can use an Excel, PDF, spreadsheet, or a mileage log book app like Driversnote. Nowadays, it is becoming more common for people to log their trips digitally in order to avoid losing data and make sure they are compliant with IRS requirements.

A Spreadsheet log book is an excellent choice as it will allow you to keep your data safely stored online and will save you time compared to the regular physical log book. However, there is still a lot of manual work involved, as you must log the data yourself and make sure you have tracked the correct mileage for each trip. You can check out our free mileage log template to see if it is the right fit for you.

A mileage logging/tracking app is a common solution nowadays since it is the most time-efficient. By using an application, you can automatically track your trips and have your data ready for you. After you have logged your trips, you only have to go into the app and confirm which was a business trip and which one was personal. Then, at the click of a button, the app will generate a report that you can send over directly to your employer or accountant.

Tips for keeping a mileage log for taxes

Don't skip a day - if you want to be sure that all of your logs are correct, you should verify every day if you have properly logged or tracked your trips.
Instead of using a physical log book, use a logbook app to save time.
Always log personal trips too - you need to be able to show the percentage of business trips out of all your trips.
Keep your logs for at least 3-4 years so that you are able to provide proof in case of an audit.
Don't be afraid to inquire! If there's something you're not sure about, ask someone who does, such as an accountant or a tax advisor.

Check out our updated IRS mileage guide for additional information on how to keep a mileage log for taxes and find all IRS regulations. If you are located in California, you should also check our dedicated article to California mileage reimbursement.

Keep in mind that this is a general overview of how to keep a mileage log book. The information here should be supplemented with information from your accountant, employer and the official IRS website.

FAQ

How do I keep records of my mileage for taxes?

A paper mileage notebook, a spreadsheet on a computer, or using a mileage tracking tool like Driversnote are all acceptable options. For many years, the only way to keep track of mileage was the paper and pen method but nowadays most people opt for using an app.

How do you make a mileage log sheet?

If you want to make your own sheet - it is quite simple. Just go to Excel or Google sheets and make space on the top for your odometer readings. Add a column for your start and end address, a column for miles driven, a column for the reimbursement and find the right formula you need to calculate this. Keep in mind this option can be more time consuming than using an app if you drive a lot for work.