IRS Reacts to High Gas Prices

As most small businesses are aware, a tax deductionIRS, there is a downside. The 48.5 cent figure only
can be taken for mileage incurred in normal businessapplies for mileage undertaken from September 1,
travel. In light of high gas prices, the IRS has upped the2005 through December 2005.
mileage rate.The less well known medical and moving mileage rate
Major Increaseis also being upped. Previously set at 15 cents a mile,
Nothing is worse than sitting at the pump and watchingthe IRS is increasing the rate to 22 cents a mile. Again,
the dollar figures tick over. In fact, I paid over $3.30 athe increased rate is only applicable for the last four
gallon this morning in San Diego. What a way to startmonths of 2005.
the week! Fortunately, the IRS is granting some relief.Comment
In 2004, the IRS set the standard mileage deductionI don't want to sound greedy, but I seem to remember
rate at 40.5 cents per mile for 2005. Obviously, gasgas prices being outrageously high prior to September
prices were just a bit lower in 2004. Apparently,2005. Others have apparently expressed the same
employees at the IRS have noticed this and action isthought to the IRS. The response of the Agency is it
being taken.expects gas prices to drop significantly over the next
The IRS has announced the standard mileage rate isfew months, which should make everything a wash.
being increased from 40.5 cents to 48.5 cents. WhileUndoubtedly, this is news to the oil companies!
this is the single largest increase ever issued by the