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How do I deduct car use at my job?

If I use my car for both personal and business use, can I deduct the cost of washes for that car on my taxes?

  • Answer:

    No. Car washes are not part of the cost of operating a car. The costs of operating a car include gas, oil, tires, licensing and registration fees, insurance, and repairs, plus depreciation on the vehicle, interest on the car loan (if you have one), and any tolls and parking fees that you pay. You figure up the total cost of operating the vehicle (if you are deducting actual vehicle expenses) and then deduct the percentage of the expenses based on your business use of the vehicle. Alternatively, you can use the standard mileage rate by toting up the miles driven for business use, and then multiplying by the rate provided by the IRS.

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Sandy Botkin would agree that they are deductible. It is an expense relating to the preservation of your vehicle & may be directly related to your business use. If you use the auto to transport clients, then it is definitely a business related expense. (In harsh climates like Minnesota winters, it is a necessity in the preservation of your vehicle. You need to periodically wash the road salt off of your auto to prevent rust.) PS. Here's a great Sandy Botkin quip: When you purchase a garden hose, use it to wash your car. Document the use & deduct a percentage of its cost. In effect, "You can hose the government!" Soap, sponges, rags, & etc. can all be partially deducted in relationship to your use on the auto & the auto's business use percentage! See http://taxreductioninstitute.com for more details! Buy the book, it's (Oh my gosh!) Tax Deductible! PS. I have the tapes from way back & review them every year!

David Ecale

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