You cannot claim auto expenses on form 2106 unless you are an Armed Forces reservist, qualified performing artist, fee-basis state or local government employee or employee with impairment-related work expenses.
Standard Mileage Rate
The standard mileage rate is a general, per-mile rate that the IRS allows to calculate your deduction. In figuring this amount, the IRS takes into consideration all the costs of operating a vehicle, such as: gas, oil, repairs, insurance, tires, etc. You can use the standard mileage rate only if:
- you owned the vehicle and used the standard mileage rate for the first year the vehicle was placed in service, or
- the vehicle is leased and you are using the standard mileage rate for the entire period of the lease.
If you previously used the standard mileage rate for a leased vehicle, then you will not be able to deduct actual expenses for that vehicle.
Actual Expenses
You can deduct as actual expenses any of the following:
- Gasoline
- Oil
- Repairs
- Insurance
- Tires
- License plates
- Lease or rental payments if you leased or rented a vehicle instead of using your own vehicle.
- Depreciation
- Tolls
- Garage rent
- Parking fees
- Registration fees
DO NOT INCLUDE interest expense you paid or state and local personal property taxes on Form 2106. Only the personal property taxes may be eligible for deduction. If so, these should be deducted in the "Taxes You Paid" section of your itemized deductions.
Where do I complete this form?
If you did have any qualifying unreimbursed employee vehicle expenses during the tax year, you can enter these under:
- Federal Section
- Deductions
- Select My Forms
- Itemized Deductions
- Job Related Travel Expenses (Form 2106)
Additional Information
For further information on vehicle expenses click here
To view mileage rates click here