Deducting mileage as an independent contractor?

[megbrooks92]

I am employed as an independent contractor by 2 small businesses, but I go to these locations multiple times a week. Since I'm listed as an independent contractor, all tax responsibility falls on me (which sucks). I do NOT get a mileage reimbursement and my commute to these places is kind of extensive. For one of these locations, roundtrip is 85 miles. Am I able to deduct my mileage for these jobs as a business expense?

[GilbertC]

As an independent contractor, yes you are able to deduct your mileage as a business expense. You can do it one of two ways- either the standard mileage rate, which is a set amount per mile to cover vehicle expenses (57.5 cents per mile for 2015) or actual vehicle expenses, in which case you must itemize every vehicular expense.