Let’s just say this upfront:
If you’re not tracking your mileage… you’re probably missing out on money.
And you’re not alone in this.
This comes up a lot.
Why Mileage Actually Matters
Mileage is one of those things that feels small.
Until you realize how quickly it adds up.
It’s a valid business expense, which means:
- You can regularly reimburse yourself from your business
- That reimbursement is not taxable income to you
- It’s not payroll
- It’s simply money going back into your pocket
And that’s the part most people miss.
What Counts as Business Mileage?
A lot more than you think.
If you’re:
- Running to the post office
- Picking up supplies
- Meeting a vendor for lunch
- Driving between work-related stops
That counts.
Even short trips count.
Those “quick errands” throughout your week?
They’re adding up whether you’re tracking them or not.
What This Can Look Like in Real Life
This isn’t about huge, complicated tracking systems.
It can be really simple.
For example, using an app like MileIQ:
- It tracks your drives automatically
- You get a notification after each trip
- You just swipe: business or personal
That’s it.
And for a small monthly cost, it can easily pay for itself.
We’re talking hundreds of dollars a year in reimbursement that many people are just… not claiming.
The Rate Adds Up Faster Than You Think
The business mileage rate for 2026 is $0.72 per mile and it goes up every year.
So even small trips matter.
If you’re driving regularly for business and not tracking it,
you’re quietly leaving money behind every single month.
Here’s What I’d Do
Start simple.
Before you do anything else:
- Pick a mileage tracking method (an app makes it easy – I use MileIQ)
- Start tracking every business-related drive
- Set a routine to reimburse yourself monthly
That’s it. Don’t overcomplicate it!
The Bottom Line
If your QuickBooks feels messy or you’re trying to be more intentional with your numbers, this is a really easy place to start.
No question is too small here.
Mileage is one of those things that’s already happening in your business…
You just need to capture it.
Stuck or Not Sure Where to Start?
If you’re unsure what counts or how to track it properly, that’s normal.
I see this all the time.
Book a session and we’ll walk through it together.