$3.19

[mbyron]

Originally Posted by zm1283

I've driven 240 miles total in the last two days going to games and have made $96 in mileage fees. That will buy almost three tanks of gas, which I haven't used in those two trips, so I'll make a little money on top of paying for my gas.

It seems like we're pretty lucky here.

You should understand that mileage reimbursement is not fuel reimbursement. The difference is that mileage covers depreciation and maintenance in addition to fuel. In most cases, the depreciation and maintenance amount to rather more than the cost of fuel.

For instance, average depreciation is $162 per 1000 miles. For your 240 miles, that would come to about $39, which would leave just $57 from your mileage fees. Depending on your vehicle, that's getting close to the cost of a tank of gas, and that doesn't factor in maintenance.

The other thing you might bear in mind is that the IRS mileage rate is 50¢/mile, and it seems you're getting 40¢/mile. The difference should be tax deductible ($24 for your current trip).

Sorry to be "Debbie Downer," but you're not likely making money off a mileage check.