Quick answer: For 2026, the IRS business standard mileage rate is **72.5 cents per mile from January 1 to June 30, and 76 cents per mile from July 1 to December 31. Because the rate changed mid-year, you must split your mileage log by date and apply each rate to the correct half of the year to claim the full deduction. Key takeaways - Business mileage rate: 72.5¢ (Jan 1–Jun 30) and 76¢ (Jul 1–Dec 31, 2026). - The IRS raised the rate mid-year to reflect rising fuel costs — a r

Penalties aren’t just a tax issue—they’re a bookkeeping issue.