I'm not sure how to get the total mileage that was driven in my car. I only have the mileage that was driven for my job.

[boyddl588]

I want to make sure I got the maximum amount I can.

[ThomasM · Accepted solution]

You may make a reasonable estimate of the total miles driven during the year.  One common method would be to use the mileage noted on repair/maintenance receipts (from oil changes, for instance).  Look at the different mileage notations on those dates and calculate the number of months between them, thus arriving at an estimate of mileage per month, then multiplying that figure by 12 for the year.  What you're looking for is any piece of paper that might have a mileage figure on it for a certain date.

You might also look back at a typical month and reconstruct your driving activity for that month, including round trips for work, mileage to certain functions, normal trips around town, etc.  Then use that month's estimate as a baseline for all 12 months.  But the easiest way to do it in the future is, at the very least, write down the mileage on Jan 1 and Dec 31.  Keeping a small log is even better, with figures for the start & end of each month.

As for your business miles, you should definitely be keeping some type of log for those.