Yes, you can typically deduct the cost of gasoline used for business purposes as a business expense on your tax return.

However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind…

1. Business Use – The gasoline must be used for business purposes to be deductible. This includes driving for business-related travel, such as visiting clients, suppliers, or conducting other business-related activities away from your primary place of business.
2. Documentation – It’s essential to keep accurate records of your business mileage and gasoline expenses to support your deductions. This includes documenting the date, destination, purpose of the trip, and number of miles driven for each business-related journey.
3. Method of Deduction – There are two primary methods for deducting business-related automobile expenses:
   • Standard Mileage Rate – The IRS allows businesses to deduct a standard mileage rate for each business mile driven. For example, for the tax year 2023, the standard mileage rate is 58.5 cents per mile for business miles driven.
   • Actual Expenses – You can deduct the actual expenses associated with using your vehicle for business purposes, including gasoline, maintenance, repairs, insurance, and depreciation. You must keep detailed records of these expenses and prorate them based on the percentage of business use versus personal use.
4. Reimbursements – If your employer reimburses you for business mileage or gasoline expenses, you cannot double-dip and deduct those expenses on your tax return. However, if your employer’s reimbursement rate is less than the IRS standard mileage rate, you may be able to deduct the difference as an unreimbursed employee expense, subject to certain limitations.
5. Business vs. Personal Use – Gasoline expenses incurred for personal use are not deductible. It’s essential to maintain separate records for business and personal use of your vehicle to accurately calculate your deductible expenses.
6. Commuting Expenses – Commuting expenses, such as driving from your home to your primary place of business and back, are generally not deductible. However, commuting expenses may be deductible if you have a home office and the commute is considered a business-related trip.

It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional or accountant to ensure compliance with IRS rules and regulations and maximize your allowable deductions for gasoline and other business expenses. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you navigate complex tax laws effectively.