The 2026 IRS business mileage rate
For 2026 the IRS set two business mileage rates: 72.5¢ per mile for January 1 to June 30, and 76¢ per mile from July 1 to December 31, after a mid-year increase tied to fuel costs.
How to calculate your deduction
- Business miles driven Jan 1 – Jun 30 × $0.725
- Business miles driven Jul 1 – Dec 31 × $0.76
- Add the two together. That's your standard mileage deduction (Schedule C, line 9).
What the IRS wants in your log
Commuting from home to a regular workplace doesn't count. Trips to clients, job sites, supply runs and between work locations do.
- Date of each trip
- Where you went (start and destination)
- Business purpose
- Miles driven
Track it without the headaches
Quarterbird lets you start and stop a trip yourself, so a gas stop never splits a drive in two, and you can edit any trip's start, end and miles without losing its purpose. It applies the right rate for the date automatically.
Know your number for every payment.
Import from Venmo, Cash App, PayPal, Stripe, Square or your bank. No bank login required. Reminder before your trial ends.
Frequently asked questions
Can I deduct gas if I use the mileage rate?
No. The standard mileage rate already covers gas, maintenance and depreciation. You can still deduct parking and tolls for business trips.
Which rate do I use for a trip on July 1, 2026?
The new rate, 76¢ per mile, applies to miles driven on or after July 1, 2026.
Sources
Related
- 2026 quarterly estimated tax deadlines for freelancers
- How much to set aside for taxes on 1099 income (2026)
Estimates and general information, not tax advice. Check with a tax professional for your situation.