Can I deduct miles to a continuing-education class?

Yes, if the education is required for your trade or business.

How long do I keep mileage records?

At least 3 years; many CPAs say 7.

Can I write off parking and tolls?

Yes, in addition to standard mileage.

Can I deduct miles for charity work?

Yes, at a much lower rate ($0.14/mile) and only if you itemize.

What if I forgot to track for part of the year?

Reconstruct what you can from calendar entries, work orders, and receipts. Going forward, use an automatic tracker.

Mileage tracking

Mileage tracking FAQ: 25 quick answers

Quick answers to the 25 most common questions about mileage tracking, the IRS standard rate, and using a mileage tracker app like MileTracker.

By MileTracker · March 5, 2026 · 9 min read

We get the same questions over and over. Here are 25 quick answers.

The basics

What's the IRS standard mileage rate for 2026?

$0.67 per business mile.

Do I have to use the IRS standard rate?

No. You can choose actual expenses instead, but you must pick one method in the first year you place the vehicle in service.

Is my commute deductible?

No. Driving from your home to a regular workplace is commuting and is not deductible.

Specific drives

Bank?

Yes, if it's a business banking trip.

Office supply store?

Yes.

Continuing education?

Yes, if it's required for your trade or business.

Lunch with a prospect?

Yes, if you're meeting to discuss business.

Charity volunteering?

Yes, but at $0.14/mile and only if you itemize.

Recordkeeping

Do I need GPS proof of every trip?

No. Date, destination, purpose, and miles is enough.

How long do I keep records?

3 years minimum. 7 is safer.

What if I lost some records?

Reconstruct from calendar entries, work orders, and receipts. Use an automatic tracker going forward.

MileTracker detects every drive in the background, lets you classify business or personal in one tap, and exports an IRS-ready PDF and CSV at tax time. Download MileTracker free on the App Store.

Frequently asked questions

What's the IRS standard mileage rate for 2026?: $0.67 per business mile.
Do I have to use the IRS standard rate?: No. You can choose actual expenses instead, but you must pick one method in the first year you place the vehicle in service.
Is my commute deductible?: No. Driving from your home to a regular workplace is commuting and is not deductible.
Can I deduct miles to the bank?: Yes, if it's a business banking trip.
Can I deduct miles to a continuing-education class?: Yes, if the education is required for your trade or business.
Do I need GPS proof of every trip?: No. The IRS wants date, destination, purpose, and miles. GPS is helpful evidence but not required.
How long do I keep mileage records?: At least 3 years; many CPAs say 7.
Can I write off parking and tolls?: Yes, in addition to standard mileage.
Can I deduct miles for charity work?: Yes, at a much lower rate ($0.14/mile) and only if you itemize.
What if I forgot to track for part of the year?: Reconstruct what you can from calendar entries, work orders, and receipts. Going forward, use an automatic tracker.