Can you claim mileage on a leased car?
When it comes to claiming mileage on a leased car, there are a few things to consider. First, it’s important to understand what a leased car is. A leased car is a vehicle that is rented to a person for a specified period of time, usually two to four years. The person who leases the car is responsible for paying a monthly fee, which covers the cost of the car and any maintenance or repairs that are needed.
When it comes to claiming mileage on a leased car, there are a few different options available. The first option is to claim the mileage as a business expense. If the car is used primarily for business purposes, such as traveling to and from work or meetings, then the mileage can be claimed as a business expense on your taxes. This can help to offset the cost of the monthly lease payments and any other expenses associated with the car.
The second option is to claim the mileage as a personal expense. If the car is used primarily for personal reasons, such as running errands or taking family holidays, then the mileage can be claimed as a personal expense on your taxes. This can also help to offset the cost of the monthly lease payments and any other expenses associated with the car.
It’s important to note that governments have strict rules and guidelines when it comes to claiming mileage on a leased car. For example, if you claim the mileage as a business expense, you’ll need to keep detailed records of the miles you’ve driven and the purpose of the trip. This includes keeping a log of the date, the starting and ending odometer readings, and the business purpose of the trip.
Another thing to keep in mind is that there may be limits on the amount of mileage that can be claimed. For example, some leases may have a mileage limit of 12,000 miles per year. If you exceed this limit, you may be charged additional fees or penalties.
In summary, you can claim mileage on a leased car, but it’s important to be aware of the rules and guidelines set by local governments. To maximise the benefits, you should be sure to keep detailed records of the mileage you’ve driven and the purpose of the trip, and be mindful of any mileage limits that may be imposed by the lease agreement. Additionally, it’s also important to consider whether to claim the mileage as a business or personal expense. Keep in mind that claiming mileage as a business expense is more restrictive and requires more documentation, but can lead to greater tax savings.