Ask the taxgirl: 2008 Mileage Rates

March 5, 2009 · 4 comments

Taxpayer asks:

I understand mileage rates changed in the middle of the year by the IRS. Can you offer the mileage rates for medical and for service with a non-profit.

Taxgirl says:

The craziness in gas prices this year did lead to a complicated mileage arrangement for 2008. The IRS normally updates mileage only once per year.

For 2008, compute your mileage deductions as follows:


Business mileage

January 1 – June 30, 2008: 50.5 cents per mile

July 1 – December 31, 2008: 58.5 cents per mile


Charitable mileage

January 1 – December 31, 2008: 14 cents per mile


Medical/moving mileage

January 1 – June 30, 2008: 19 cents per mile

July 1 – December 31, 2008: 27 cents per mile


I know what you’re thinking: what gives with the charitable rates? Those rates are, unfortunately, set by statute and cannot be adjusted by the Treasury. If you’re annoyed that the rate hasn’t changed for the last several years (and really, you should be), let your Congressional officials know.

Check back later in the day for a discussion of what qualifies as a mileage deduction for business expenses!

Like any good lawyer, I need to add a disclaimer: Unfortunately, it is impossible to give comprehensive tax advice over the internet, no matter how well researched or written. Before relying on any information given on this site, contact a tax professional to discuss your particular situation.

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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Larry Young March 5, 2009 at 9:18 am

You might want to mention that effective 1/1/09 the rate dropped back to 55 cents per mile.

2 Kelly March 5, 2009 at 10:41 am

Thanks! I’m going to do a follow-up piece later today – my inbox is filled with mileage-related questions.

3 Heather April 13, 2009 at 2:55 pm

Hi…what if you work at a non-profit and incur mileage, should it be reimbursed at the business rate or something else?

4 Kelly April 13, 2009 at 5:09 pm

If you’re driving for a work-related purpose (and not for purposes of commuting), nonprofit or for profit, use the business rate.

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