Mileage Deduction Calculator for Contractors
Calculate your IRS standard mileage deduction for 2024, 2025, and 2026. Built for 1099 contractors who drive for work.
If you're driving to job sites, hauling materials, or visiting clients, you're leaving money on the table if you're not tracking your mileage. The IRS standard mileage deduction is one of the biggest write-offs available to self-employed contractors — and it's dead simple to claim.
Enter your business miles and tax year, and this calculator tells you exactly how much you can deduct.
local_shipping Your Mileage
savings Your Deduction
Total Mileage Deduction
$10,500
$0.70
Rate Per Mile
$0
Est. Tax Savings (25%)
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your total business miles driven for the year (not personal miles)
- Select the tax year you're calculating for
- See your total deduction amount and estimated tax savings instantly
What Counts as Business Miles?
Business mileage includes driving to job sites, picking up materials at the hardware store, visiting clients, bank runs for the business, and any other work-related driving. Your daily commute from home to a fixed office does not count — but if your home is your primary business location (very common for contractors), most driving qualifies.
IRS Standard Mileage Rates (2024–2026)
| Year | Rate (per mile) | 15,000 mi deduction | 25,000 mi deduction |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $0.70 | $10,500 | $17,500 |
| 2025 | $0.70 | $10,500 | $17,500 |
| 2024 | $0.67 | $10,050 | $16,750 |
The IRS announces the standard mileage rate each December for the upcoming year. Check IRS.gov for any mid-year adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IRS standard mileage rate for 2025?
The IRS standard mileage rate for 2025 is 70 cents per mile for business use. This is the same rate as 2026.
Can I deduct mileage as a 1099 contractor?
Yes. As a self-employed contractor, you can deduct business mileage using either the IRS standard mileage rate or actual vehicle expenses. Most contractors find the standard mileage rate simpler and often more beneficial.
What counts as business mileage for contractors?
Business mileage includes driving to job sites, picking up materials, visiting clients, and going to the hardware store for supplies. Commuting from home to a regular office does NOT count, but if your home is your principal office, most job-related driving qualifies.
Should I use standard mileage or actual expenses?
The standard mileage rate is simpler — you just track miles. Actual expenses require tracking gas, insurance, repairs, depreciation, and more. Many contractors save more with standard mileage, especially if they drive a lot but have an older, paid-off truck. You must choose one method at the start of the vehicle's first business year.