By Martin Ferret · Updated
How is the mileage deduction calculated?
Business miles times the IRS standard mileage rate of the day they were driven. The calculator spreads your miles evenly over the year; your real log values each trip at the rate of its own date.
Which rate does the calculator use?
The IRS business standard mileage rate for the year you pick:
| Tax year | Business rate |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 72.5¢, then 76¢ from July 1 |
| 2025 | 70¢ |
| 2024 | 67¢ |
| 2023 | 65.5¢ |
The IRS raised the rate mid-year, from July 1, 2026. The IRS mileage rate 2026 guide explains the split.
How much tax does the deduction save?
For a Schedule C filer, two taxes go down: self-employment tax, 15.3% on 92.35% of the amount, and federal income tax at your bracket. State income tax, where there is one, adds to the savings; the calculator leaves it out.
What do I need to claim it?
A mileage log with the date, destination, business purpose and miles of each trip. See the IRS mileage log requirements. If you did not keep one, the Google Maps Timeline mileage log rebuilds it from the drives your phone recorded, for $49 per tax year.
Common questions
Is the mileage deduction the same as the tax I save?
No. The deduction lowers your taxable profit. What you save is that amount times your tax rates: self-employment tax and your federal bracket, plus state tax where it applies.
Can I deduct commuting miles?
No. Driving between your home and your regular place of work is commuting, a personal expense. Only business trips count: client sites, job sites, supply runs, trips between two work locations.
What if I drove different amounts each week?
Enter your yearly total with Per year, or use your best weekly average. For the exact figure, your Google Maps Timeline has every drive with its date and distance.