What if I use my personal car for my sole trade business?

If you are a sole trader and you use your car for both business and personal purposes, you are entitled to claim any costs directly related to business journeys and a percentage of the actual running costs for the year.

Individuals must keep detailed records for all expenses incurred, for fuel and running costs. Some handy tips to help you keep track of your expenses:

• Take a note of the number of kilometres on your car on 01 January
• Keep a record of your business journeys so you can calculate the percentage business use at the end of the year
• Keep all fuel receipts
• Keep all receipts for running costs; repairs, servicing etc.

The TaxAssist mobile app is a great way to keep track of all your journeys by using its mileage tracker!

Date published 16 May 2019

This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.