The standard mileage rate is used to calculate the amount a person may deduct for the use of a personal vehicle for business purposes. This rate applies to a car or light duty truck for each mile of business use.
For 2011 tax returns, the standard mileage rate is:
- 51 cents per mile from January 1st to June 30th
- 55.5 cents per mile from July 1st to December 31st
On an interesting note, many taxpayers don’t realize that they may also use the standard mileage rate for business use of a car for hire, such as a taxi. Reminder: Proper records are a must. You can find an interactive auto mileage log on the McRuer CPAs’ website under Tools and Downloads.