I am independent contractor delivery driver. How do I keep track of my gas expenses and mileage? What do I need at the end of the year to prove my expenses?

[Carl]

Simple. You write it down. Just keep a log book for actual valid miles driven and separate personal use miles from business miles. Keep all receipts too.
If the vehicle is used for less than 100% business use, it can be rather difficult (if not impossible) to prove actual expenses for business miles driven. That's why it's generally better to take the per-mile deduction. You actually get more of a deduction that way in many situations.

[mjea08]

Thanks for your response. What proof do I provide for the mileage I'm reporting?  Also, will I not report gas expenses then?

[Carl]

Your proof is your logbook that you keep as you go.

[SweetieJean · Accepted solution]

There are two ways you can calculate the deduction for using your car for business. You can (1) keep track of each work-related mile you drive and multiply the total by the IRS standard mileage rate, OR (2)  you can save the receipts for the actual cost of gasoline and oil.

[mjea08]

Thank you

[Moiraine]

I just started delivery driving last year. I also ended up getting quickbooks. You can log all your mileage with quickbooks, and choose which is personal and which is for business. Super easy. No need to keep a big book either. You can also attach your receipts to your bank transactions, this will log gas.