irs compliant mileage log
A mileage deduction can save you hundreds—or even thousands—on your tax return. But to claim it, you need an IRS-compliant mileage log. So what does that mean, exactly?
The Basics of an IRS-Compliant Mileage Log
The IRS requires you to maintain a contemporaneous, accurate, and complete record of your vehicle use for business. A compliant log must include:
Date of each trip
Purpose of the trip (business-related, not personal)
Starting point and destination
Odometer readings or total miles driven
These records help substantiate your deduction and protect you in case of an audit.
What Makes a Mileage Log "IRS-Compliant"?
It’s not just about writing down miles. The log must:
Be timely (recorded as close to the travel date as possible)
Include detailed information
Reflect only business use unless you're also tracking personal use for proportional deductions
You must also be consistent—don't log miles weeks later based on memory.
Electronic vs. Manual Logs
Both are acceptable. You can use a:
Notebook or spreadsheet (Excel, Google Sheets)
Mileage tracking app (like TripLog, MileIQ, or Driversnote)
Apps can make your log more compliant by recording GPS routes, timestamps, and auto-classifying trips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Guessing or rounding miles
Failing to include the purpose of the trip
Logging mileage long after the trip occurred
Logging commuting miles (not deductible)
Why It Matters
A proper, IRS-compliant mileage log is often the first thing requested during an audit. Without it, your entire deduction could be disallowed—even if the mileage was legitimate.
Being proactive and keeping a compliant log can protect your finances and peace of mind during tax season.
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