Checkmark iconCan I Write This Off?

Is can you write off driving to work tax deductible?

TL;DR

Driving to and from your regular place of work is generally not tax deductible as it is considered a personal commuting expense. However, there are exceptions for certain business-related travel situations.

Detailed Answer

Commuting expenses, which include driving from your home to your regular place of work and back, are not deductible. However, if you travel between multiple work locations or from your home to a temporary work location, these trips may be deductible. For example, if you are a freelancer who works from home and occasionally travels to meet clients at different locations, those trips may be deductible. Additionally, if you have a home office that qualifies as your principal place of business, travel from your home to other work locations can be deductible. It's important to distinguish between regular commuting and business travel to ensure compliance.

Where to Put It on the Tax Form

Schedule C, Line 9 for car and truck expenses. If using the standard mileage rate, also keep a mileage log.

Real World Example

A freelance graphic designer who works from a home office drives to a client's office for a meeting. The round-trip mileage is 30 miles. The designer can deduct this travel as a business expense using the IRS standard mileage rate.

Calculation Required

A calculation is required for this deduction.

Calculate the deduction by multiplying the total business miles driven by the IRS standard mileage rate for the tax year. For example, if the standard rate is $0.65 per mile and you drove 30 miles, the deduction would be 30 miles x $0.65 = $19.50.

Audit Risk & Documentation Tips

Moderate audit risk. Keep a detailed mileage log that includes the date, destination, purpose of the trip, and miles driven. Retain any supporting documentation such as client meeting notes or contracts to substantiate the business purpose of the travel.

IRS Reference

IRS Publication 463

Relevant Industries

FreelancersConsultantsReal Estate AgentsIndependent Contractors

Popular Related Pages

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 25, 2025

Back to Search