IRS Releases Standard Mileage Rates for 2013

By Paul Bonner

From the IRS

Optional standard mileage rates for use of a vehicle went up by 1 cent per mile for 2013 (Notice 2012-72). Taxpayers can use the optional standard mileage rates to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile.

For business use of a car, van, pickup truck, or panel truck, the 2013 rate is 56.5 cents per mile. Driving for medical or moving purposes may be deducted at 24 cents per mile. Both rates are 1 cent higher than for 2012. The rate for service to a charitable organization is unchanged, set by statute (Sec. 170(i)) at 14 cents a mile.

The portion of the business standard mileage rate that is treated as depreciation is 23 cents per mile for 2013, unchanged from 2012.

For purposes of computing the allowance under a fixed and variable rate (FAVR) plan, the maximum standard automobile cost for 2013 is $28,100 for automobiles (not including trucks and vans) or $29,900 for trucks and vans, increases of $100 and $600, respectively, from 2012. Under a FAVR plan, a standard amount is deemed substantiated for an employer’s reimbursement to employees for expenses they incur in driving their vehicle in performing services as an employee for the employer.

Tax Insider Articles

DEDUCTIONS

Business meal deductions after the TCJA

This article discusses the history of the deduction of business meal expenses and the new rules under the TCJA and the regulations and provides a framework for documenting and substantiating the deduction.

TAX RELIEF

Quirks spurred by COVID-19 tax relief

This article discusses some procedural and administrative quirks that have emerged with the new tax legislative, regulatory, and procedural guidance related to COVID-19.