2026 Mileage Rates Unveiled: Key Implications for Tax Deductions

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the inflation-adjusted standard mileage rates for 2026, crucial for calculating deductible vehicular operation costs for business, medical, and charitable purposes. With these updates effective January 1, 2026, it's vital for taxpayers and business owners alike to stay informed about these changes to maximize their tax benefits.

Starting in 2026, the updated rates for vehicle use are as follows:

  • 72.5 cents per mile for business travel, which includes a depreciation allowance of 35 cents per mile. This is an increase from the 2025 rate of 70 cents per mile.

  • 20.5 cents per mile for medical or moving purposes, a slight decrease from 21 cents in 2025.

  • 14 cents per mile for services to charitable organizations, a rate set by law and unchanged for over 25 years.

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For business owners, these mileage rates serve as crucial tools for tax planning and expense management. They are derived from an annual analysis of the fixed and variable costs of vehicle operation. While taking mileage deductions, taxpayers should remember that additional expenses like parking fees, tolls, and state or local taxes related to vehicle business use can also be deductible.

For those considering the actual expense method of deduction, it's worth noting that fluctuating fuel prices and the phased bonus depreciation can impact the overall deduction value. While bonus depreciation was 100% during 2018-2022, it was reduced to 40% through early 2025, but has been reinstated to 100% for the end of 2025. This poses both opportunities and constraints when deciding between deduction methods.

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Employers who reimburse employees using the standard mileage rate can offer tax-free payments, provided the employee documents the mileage accurately. It’s important to note that under current legislation, such as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), employees cannot claim unreimbursed vehicle expenses through itemized deductions until further notice.

However, some groups, like certain government officials, reservists, and performers, may still claim these deductions independently according to specific criteria. Additionally, self-employed individuals retain the right to deduct the business use of their vehicles, including interest on auto loans proportional to business use.

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For owners of heavy SUVs used in business, weighing over 6,000 pounds but under 14,000 pounds, the Section 179 deduction and bonus depreciation provide substantial initial tax relief. Nevertheless, business owners should be cautious of recapture rules if the vehicle is sold before five years.

If you need personalized advice on optimizing your vehicle-related tax deductions, whether actual or standard mileage, contact us at Dixson Tax Resolution Services LLC. Our extensive experience in navigating complex IRS regulations allows us to find strategies that ensure compliance and maximize your returns.

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