December 15, 2023
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the standard mileage rates for 2024, reflecting changes that impact individuals and businesses that use vehicles for work-related travel, medical or moving purposes, and charitable services. Let’s take a closer look at the facts and what this update will mean for you.
Overview of the New Rates
For the year 2024, the standard mileage rate for business travel has been increased to 67 cents per mile, up by 1.5 cents from the 2023 rate. This rate is essential for taxpayers who use their vehicles for business purposes as it directly impacts the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business.
In addition to the business mileage rate, the IRS has also adjusted the rates for other types of vehicle use. For medical or moving purposes, specifically for qualified active-duty members of the Armed Forces, the rate is now set at 21 cents per mile, a slight decrease from the previous year. The rate for miles driven in service of charitable organizations remains unchanged at 14 cents per mile, as this rate is set by statute.
These updated rates are applicable to a wide range of vehicles including conventional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles, as well as electric and hybrid-electric automobiles.
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Factors Influencing the Rate Changes
The decision to adjust these rates considers various factors that influence the cost of vehicle operation. Despite a recent dip in fuel prices, the overall cost of vehicle ownership has increased. This rise is attributed to factors like vehicle acquisition costs and depreciation. The broader economic context, including ongoing global conflicts and supply chain and labor shortages, also play a role in determining these rates.
The IRS’s method for calculating these rates involves an annual analysis of the costs associated with owning and operating a vehicle. While fuel prices are a significant factor, they are not the only consideration. Other elements like depreciation, insurance, and maintenance also contribute to the determination of these rates.
Impact on Businesses and Individuals
The changes in the standard mileage rates can have a considerable impact on businesses and individuals who rely on vehicle use for their operations.
For example, a mobile employee reimbursed at the new IRS rate for driving 10,000 miles a year will see an additional $150.00 compared to the previous rate. This highlights the importance of staying updated with IRS announcements regarding mileage rates, as they directly affect reimbursement and deductible costs.
An important note here: if you’re using MileageWise to track your mileage, you can sit back and relax as the app will automatically adjust to the new rate so you won’t need to manually update the figures. Please also note that the new rates will only apply in your 2025 tax submission.
Businesses have the option to use different methodologies for calculating vehicle usage costs, but many prefer to use the IRS rate due to its standardization and ease of application across large fleets. Technologies like automated mileage tracking and reimbursement systems can help streamline this process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in applying these rates.
Wrapping It Up
In conclusion, the IRS’s announcement of the 2024 standard mileage rates is a crucial update for anyone using vehicles for business, medical, moving, or charitable purposes. It reflects the evolving economic landscape and the costs associated with vehicle operation
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