Mileage Rates for Self Employed
The self-employed can claim the HMRC Approved Mileage Rate towards their business mileage expenses, provided they keep proper records of all business journeys.
What mileage rate can the self-employed claim?
The standard mileage rates apply to the self-employed. They can claim 45ppm for the first 10,000 miles travelled by car or van. They can also claim 25 ppm for each additional mile over 10,000 miles. If travelling by motorcycle, the mileage rate is 24ppm; for using a bicycle, the rate is 20ppm.
Can I pay myself more than the AMAP rate?
It is not advisable. If you pay yourself more than the AMAP rate, it is ignored by the HMRC (formerly Inland Revenues) and your accountants when calculating your profit.
What records do I need to keep?
You must keep a mileage log recording all your business trips.
This should include:
- The date of travel;
- The reason for the journey;
- The miles covered;
- The type of transport used.
You can log your business mileage either on paper or electronically; in a mileage log book, a mileage log spreasheet, or online. Use Tripcatcher mileage log to track your mileage expenses simply and speedily: just click the Sign Up link at the top of the screen.
The mileage expense records must be kept for at least three years after the tax year to which they apply.
