How to record mileage

Question

What are the common ways to record mileage (for example, from primary home to investment property due to repairs or property management) for tax saving purpose, which are acceptable to IRS?

Chris Picciurro · Answer

I like MileIQ or if you use QuickBooks Online Self Employed the tracked is built into the app.

David M. · Answer

@Yi Chu

The tried and true, old fashioned, way is to keep a notebook in your car as a mileage log.  As you drive for the day, note the mileage.

A software/app like Triplog is another way to go that I've used.  Some usage is free.  When I was working as a realtor, I paid for it so that it would bluetooth connect to my car.  So, anytime I was driving it was logging all my trips.  It advertises that it meets IRS rules...

I'm not sure if the irs would accept if you kept a spreadsheet of your driving.  The rule is suposed to be that its "comtemporaoius" (whatever..), meaning that you wrote it down as you did it.  With a spreadsheet there is no way to tell when you wrote it down.  At least pen and paper there is usually some indication of writing over time...

Hope that helps some.  Good luck.

Account Closed · Answer

we also recommend clients use MileIQ. Great app!

Andrew Postell · Answer

@Yi Chu I've used TripLog for years.  Would highly recommend it.  Any app will require some type of auditing....apps don't know if your trip is for business or personal usage...but they keep up with the milage for you.  Well worth the price.

Michael Smythe · Answer

There are phone apps that do this!

How to record mileage

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