How much is business mileage worth in 2026?
2026 Mileage Rates
In the US, the IRS standard mileage rate for 2026 is 72.5 cents per mile. In Canada, the CRA rate is $0.73/km for the first 5,000 km, then $0.67/km for provinces (territories add 4 cents).
This is general info, NOT tax advice.
Requirements for a Valid Log
To satisfy the IRS, a valid mileage log must record the date, destination, business miles, and business purpose for every trip, kept contemporaneously (at least weekly).
TradesTimer handles this by using background GPS to auto-detect 'stops' and 'trips,' capturing the distance for every leg of your workday automatically.
The Standard Mileage Election
If you use a vehicle for business, you must elect the standard mileage rate in the first year the car is used for business.
TradesTimer provides the necessary mileage log and trip data to help you maintain the records required for this election.
FAQ
How often should I update my mileage records?
You should update your records at least weekly to ensure they are considered contemporaneous.
Does TradesTimer require me to manually start a timer for every job?
No, the app uses background GPS to auto-detect stops and trips without any manual input.
Related
- Mileage deduction calculator (IRS & CRA)
- TradesTimer for mobile mechanics
- TradesTimer for hvac technicians
Last updated 2026-06-08.