Can I Write This Off?

Can I write off business mileage for delivery driving?

TL;DR

Yes, you can write off business mileage for delivery driving, provided it is for business purposes.

Detailed Answer

Business mileage for delivery driving is deductible if the driving is directly related to your work as a delivery driver. This includes trips from your starting location to the delivery destination and back, or between multiple delivery points. Personal commuting from home to your main place of business is not deductible. For example, if you are a delivery driver for a company or work as an independent contractor for a delivery service, the miles driven to deliver packages or food can be deducted.

Where to Put It on the Tax Form

Schedule C (Form 1040), Part II, Line 9 for self-employed individuals.

Real World Example

A delivery driver for a food delivery service logs 150 miles in a week delivering food to customers. These miles are deductible as business mileage.

Calculation Required

A calculation is required for this deduction.

To calculate the deduction, multiply the total business miles driven by the IRS standard mileage rate for the year. For example, if the rate is $0.58 per mile and you drove 150 business miles, the deduction would be 150 miles x $0.58 = $87.

Audit Risk & Documentation Tips

Maintain a detailed mileage log that includes the date, starting location, destination, purpose of the trip, and miles driven. Use apps or a physical logbook to ensure accuracy. Keep receipts for any related expenses, such as tolls or parking fees, to support your deduction.

IRS Reference

IRS Publication 463, Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses

Relevant Industries

Delivery ServicesGig EconomyIndependent ContractorsTransportation

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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax or legal advice. Always consult your tax advisor.

Page created on July 7, 2025

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