Question

EXCESS Car Wash Expense for Rideshare Driver

Forum|Forum|6 years ago
April 17, 2020
1 reply
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I am a rideshare driver and understand that the standard mileage deduction includes car washes and would not normally be an additional itemized expense on a Schedule C. However, the DAILY car wash expense that I incur due to the expectations of my business are far above what would be considered routine maintenance. I don't believe the answer that the standard deduction includes car washes is correct given the excessive expense a rideshare driver is forced to incur to conduct their business. I'm wondering if anyone has thoughts on this topic, and if deductible, where to deduct?

PS I understand I could deduct it as a Misc. Business expense on Schedule C. If so - how to label this deduction? I believe that labeling it "Car Wash" would send up a red flag - since it is understood that this would normally not be itemized when claiming a standard mileage deduction.

I have been searching for this answer for years - and have chosen NOT to deduct this expense each year, even though I believe it should be allowed. Each year I have searched online and through Turbotax for the answer, and have been unsuccessful. I believe there are other rideshare drivers who would appreciate this clarification.

Thank you in advance.

TurboTax Home & Biz Windows

A

AnnetteB6

The standard mileage rate includes depreciation, lease payments, maintenance and repairs, gasoline, oil, insurance, and vehicle registration fees. Car washes are not specifically included in the standard mileage rate unless you consider it to be part of maintenance for the car. Typically, maintenance in this situation would be things such as regular oil changes, tire rotations, windshield wipers, etc. -- things that prolong the life of the vehicle and keep it safely running.

For your business as a driver, car washes would definitely be considered a business expense that is not included in the standard mileage deduction. Enter it as a Miscellaneous Business Expense and label it as 'car washes' or something else that makes sense. It should not throw up a red flag to do so.

For more examples of typical expenses for someone in your line of work, see the following TurboTax article:

What self-employed expenses can I deduct?

@souljou

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