2026 Mileage Rates: Key Updates for Taxpayers

As the year unfolds, the IRS has announced the updated standard mileage rates for 2026, marking pivotal changes for taxpayers calculating deductible costs for vehicle use in various scenarios. These rates impact deductions for business, charitable, medical, or moving purposes, with adjustments reflecting inflation and economic conditions.

Effective January 1, 2026, the IRS offers the following mileage rates for use of cars, vans, pickups, or panel trucks:

  • Business miles – The rate has increased to 72.5 cents per mile, which includes a 35-cent-per-mile allocation for depreciation. This rate rises from 70 cents per mile in 2025.

  • Medical purposes and moving expenses – Set at 20.5 cents per mile, down from 21 cents in the previous year.

  • Charitable organizations – Remains unchanged at 14 cents per mile. This rate is fixed by law and can only be altered through congressional intervention.

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The business mileage rate derives from a comprehensive annual analysis of the fixed and variable costs associated with automobile operation. Conversely, the rates for medical and moving uses depend exclusively on variable cost assessments derived from the same study. While charitable mileage remains unchanged due to statutory constraints, the effects of inflation are more evident in business-related rates.

Regarding moving expenses, deductions are generally disallowed under the OBBBA, except for active-duty Armed Forces members relocating due to service orders or those in the intelligence community requiring relocation post-2026.

For those using personal vehicles for charitable work, you can opt to deduct direct out-of-pocket expenses like fuel costs instead of using the 14 cents per mile rate. However, deductions do not extend to vehicle repairs, maintenance, registration fees, or insurance costs.

Important Considerations for Business Use of a Vehicle – Taxpayers have the flexibility between using the standard mileage rate or the actual cost method for business vehicle use. While factors like fluctuating fuel prices and enhanced depreciation benefits might make the actual expense method appealing, only the standard mileage rate accommodates about parking, tolls, state, and local property taxes linked to business use, enhancing its attractiveness.

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Employers reimbursing employees through the standard mileage allowance method can continue doing so tax-free, provided employees substantiate their business travel's time, place, mileage, and purpose.

Employee Vehicle Expenses – Post-2017 legislative changes have eliminated itemized deductions for unreimbursed employee business expenses. However, select professionals, such as Armed Forces reservists, certain local officials, and performing artists, retain some deduction eligibility as income adjustments. Eligible educators may qualify for deductions on Sch. A starting 2026.

For Self-employed Taxpayers – Deductions for business vehicle use are still permissible. Regardless of the chosen deduction method—standard rate or actual expenses—interest on a business-related auto loan remains deductible on Schedule C.

Accelerated Deductions for Heavy SUVs – SUVs over 6,000 pounds enjoy exemption from luxury auto depreciation limits. These vehicles allow for a mix of Section 179 deductions and bonus depreciation, with a cap of $32,000 in 2026. However, disposals within five years can lead to deduction recovery requirements, impacting your income.

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Considering your Vehicle Deduction Options? – If you're navigating the complexities of vehicle deductions or have questions about required documentation, feel free to reach out. Together, we can examine the best approach tailored to your needs.

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If you’re ready to get a handle on your tax situation, reach out and we’ll guide you through each step.
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