If the standard mileage rate was first used when the vehicle was placed into service --used for business -- then the taxpayer may convert to the actual expense deduction to offset higher fuel cost for the current year. From September 1, 2005 through December 31, 2005 the IRS increased the standard to 48.5 cents per mile. Despite the increase in the standard mileage rate, one should carefully weigh which expense -- actual or standard --they should use for their 2005 return.

Eric Hayes