Gas prices have dropped so this was inevitable.

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2009, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car, van, pickup or panel truck will be 55 cents per mile for business miles driven, 24 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes, and 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations.

The new rates for business, medical and moving purposes are slightly lower than rates for the second half of 2008 that were raised by a special adjustment mid-year in response to a spike in gasoline prices. The rate for charitable purposes is set by law and is unchanged from 2008.

The mileage rates for 2009 reflect generally higher transportation costs compared to a year ago, but the rates also factor in the recent reversal of rising gasoline prices. While gasoline is a significant factor in the mileage rate, other fixed and variable costs, such as depreciation, enter the calculation.

As always, if you have questions about this or other tax related items don’t hesitate to call the office at 678.624.4775 or email me at Peter@TarantinoCo.com