Tools

Mileage Tracking: Don't Leave Money on the Table

Platform trip summaries often miss waiting and repositioning miles. Log business miles while the driver app is on, then compare the IRS standard rate ($0.76/mile Jul–Dec 2026) against actual expenses in WillDrivingPay. Automatic GPS apps help; this is educational planning—not tax advice. Pair with the Tax Guide and methodology.

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1. Why You Can't Trust the Apps Alone

Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash commonly emphasize "active" miles—the distance from pickup to drop-off. Waiting miles and deadhead back to a hotspot may not appear the same way on your tax summary. Keep an independent log so deductions match what you actually drove for business.

2. The "App On" Rule

Many advisors treat miles as deductible while you are actively engaged in the business (for example, once the driver app is on and you are available for requests). Rules and audits are fact-specific—confirm with a tax professional and the IRS Self-Employed Tax Center.

3. Automatic GPS Trackers

Keeping a pen-and-paper logbook is exhausting. Automatic GPS trackers (examples drivers often use: Gridwise, Stride, Everlance) run in the background and log drives so you can classify business vs. personal at day end. Choose a tool that exports records you would be comfortable showing an auditor.

4. Software Deductions & IRS Rate Check

If you pay for a premium mileage app, that subscription may be deductible as a business expense on Schedule C—ask your preparer. WillDrivingPay’s IRS comparison uses the official $0.76/mile business rate for July–December 2026.

See mileage impact on take-home

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