If you or someone in your household traveled for medical care in 2025, you may be able to deduct those travel costs from your taxes. While most people know you can deduct medical bills, fewer realize that the miles you drive for medical reasons may also be tax-deductible, but only if you follow the IRS’s rules.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how the medical mileage deduction works, the current mileage rate for 2025, what trips qualify, and how to track and claim your miles properly.
The IRS allows taxpayers to deduct certain medical expenses on their federal tax return. This includes travel costs related to receiving medical care. But not all travel qualifies, and not all expenses are allowed.
For 2025, the IRS standard mileage rate for medical travel is 21 cents per mile.
You can deduct this mileage on Schedule A of your tax return, but only if your total medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). If your expenses exceed that threshold, you can deduct the portion that goes over.
Example: If your AGI is $100,000 and your total medical expenses, including travel, come to $10,000, you can deduct $2,500 of those expenses ($10,000 - $7,500).
The IRS defines medical travel as driving to receive or provide care that is “primarily for, and essential to,” medical treatment. Common examples include:
You can also deduct related expenses such as parking fees and tolls.
You cannot deduct mileage for:
When it comes to calculating your Medical Mileage Deduction, you have two options: the Standard Mileage Rate method or the Actual Expenses method. Let's take a closer look at both.
The 2025 medical mileage rate is 21 cents per mile
The Standard Mileage Rate method allows you to deduct a specific rate per mile for medical travel. With this method, you do not need to track and calculate your actual expenses. However, you must meet specific IRS requirements to use this method, so it's essential to familiarize yourself with the guidelines.
Alternatively, you can deduct actual out-of-pocket costs like gas, parking, and tolls. You’ll need to keep detailed receipts for every qualifying trip. The IRS does not allow deductions for depreciation, insurance, or general repairs when using this method for medical travel. This method is called the actual expenses method
Most taxpayers will find the standard mileage method easier and just as effective.
To claim the deduction, you’ll need a mileage log that includes:
You can track this manually with a notebook or spreadsheet, but apps like Everlance make this process automatic. Everlance logs your trips, timestamps the routes, and allows you to label them as “Medical” with one tap.
Keeping accurate records is essential. If the IRS audits your return, they may deny your deduction if you can’t produce supporting documentation.
Now that you understand the basics and have your mileage records in order, it's time to learn how to claim the Medical Mileage Deduction. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let's explore some additional information that can help you maximize your deduction.
The Medical Mileage Deduction is claimed on Schedule A of your tax return. When filling out this form, you'll need to provide accurate information about your medical expenses, including the mileage deductions. But what qualifies as a medical expense? Well, it includes a wide range of costs, such as transportation to and from medical appointments, parking fees, tolls, and even the cost of lodging if you need to travel for medical treatment.
Double-check all the details to ensure accuracy, as any mistakes could result in delays or the potential for an audit. It's always a good idea to keep copies of your supporting documents, like receipts and mileage logs, in case the IRS requests them for verification. Remember, the more organized and thorough you are, the smoother the process will be.
If you're unsure about how to fill out the Schedule A form or have complex tax situations, consulting a tax professional can provide peace of mind and ensure compliance with all IRS regulations. They can guide you through the process, answer any questions you may have, and help you make the most of your medical mileage deduction.
Now that you're familiar with the basics of claiming the Medical Mileage Deduction, let's dive into some helpful tips that can further enhance your tax-saving strategy:
By following these tips and staying organized, you can make the most of the Medical Mileage Deduction and potentially reduce your tax burden. Remember, every dollar saved counts, so take advantage of this deduction and keep more money in your pocket.
To minimize the chances of being audited, it's crucial to adhere to the IRS guidelines and exercise caution when filing your tax return. Keep meticulous records, maintain consistency in your reporting, and be proactive in addressing any discrepancies.
Another potential challenge to be aware of is the risk of inconsistent reporting. Let's say you have multiple medical appointments in a week, and you inadvertently report different mileage totals for each trip. Inconsistencies like these can raise suspicion and increase the likelihood of an audit. To avoid this, double-check your records and ensure that your reported mileage is consistent across all your medical travel expenses.
By following these guidelines and ensuring that your deduction claim is well-documented and accurate, you can maximize your deduction and avoid potential audits.
Furthermore, it's important to note that the IRS may periodically update their guidelines and requirements for claiming the Medical Mileage Deduction. Staying informed about any changes can help you navigate the process smoothly and avoid any unexpected challenges. Regularly check the IRS website or consult with a tax professional to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations.
Everlance helps automatically track your trips and easily set a purpose to ensure you never miss another mile
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Brad Thibeau is the Head of Growth & Partnerships at Everlance. Brad has worked at Everlance since 2021 with a focus on helping self employed people save time and money on their taxes.
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