PSA: My accountant in Chicago just saved me a big tax headache

I was at their office last month trying to sort out my quarterly payments, and they pointed out I hadn't been tracking my mileage to client meetings at all. Now I log every trip in a simple spreadsheet and it adds up fast. How do you guys keep track of your driving for work?

3 comments

3 Comments

miam7518d ago

Just use a mileage tracker app.

derek65618d ago

An app is a good start, @miam75, but it doesn't handle everything... you still need to keep a logbook or receipts for gas and repairs. The IRS can ask for proof, and a simple app log might not be enough on its own. It's about having a full record, not just the miles. A lot of people get tripped up by that part during tax time.

anderson.david7d ago

My buddy Mark got audited last year over his delivery gig miles. He showed them his phone app with all the trips logged, but the IRS person asked for his repair receipts and gas card statements too. He didn't have them all in one place, just scattered emails and a few crumpled papers in his glove box. It turned into a huge headache and he ended up losing a big chunk of his deduction because his records were a mess. Now he uses the app but also has a physical folder for every single paper receipt, just in case.