The 2026 IRS mileage rates for real estate agents
| Period | Rate per business mile |
|---|---|
| January 1 – June 30, 2026 | $0.725 |
| July 1 – December 31, 2026 | $0.76 |
Mid-year rate changes are rare — and they're a trap. A trip on June 30 and an identical trip on July 1 are worth different amounts, so a mileage log that doesn't record dates can misstate your deduction. Every trip in Closebooks is valued at the rate for its date automatically.
Why mileage is usually a realtor's biggest deduction
Showings, listing appointments, inspections, photography runs, closings — a working agent routinely drives 5,000–15,000 business miles a year. At 2026 rates that's roughly $3,700–$11,200 in deductions. Miles you don't log are deductions you lose at filing time; the IRS expects a contemporaneous log with date, miles, and business purpose.
What counts as business mileage?
Generally: driving between your office (including a qualifying home office) and showings, client meetings, inspections, continuing education, and errands for your business. Commuting from home to a regular office is generally not deductible. Keep the purpose with every trip — "Showing — 12 Birchwood Ln" is exactly the kind of note an auditor wants to see.
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes, not tax advice. Confirm your situation with your CPA.