Can I Write This Off?Is writing off gas on taxes tax deductible?
TL;DR
Gas expenses can be tax deductible if they are incurred for business purposes.
Detailed Answer
Where to Put It on the Tax Form
Schedule C (Form 1040), Part II, Line 9 for self-employed individuals or Form 2106 for employees if applicable.
Real World Example
A freelance photographer uses their personal car to travel to various photoshoot locations. They track their mileage and gas expenses for these trips and deduct the gas costs on their Schedule C as part of their business expenses.
Calculation Required
A calculation is required for this deduction.
To calculate the deduction, you can use the actual expenses method, which involves adding up all car-related expenses, including gas, and multiplying by the percentage of business use. Alternatively, you can use the standard mileage rate, which includes gas and other vehicle expenses.
Audit Risk & Documentation Tips
Maintain a detailed mileage log and keep receipts for all gas purchases. Be consistent in your method of calculation and ensure that personal and business use of the vehicle is clearly separated. This documentation is crucial in case of an audit.
IRS Reference
IRS Publication 463 (Travel, Entertainment, Gift, and Car Expenses)
Relevant Industries
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 15, 2025