I am a lineman and must respond to elec. outages after work. can I deduct mileage after my daily commute amnt?

Question

we are required to come in at all hours of the day, and often on weekends. Some times I may make three to four trips in after my daily commute. I have to drive my personal truck in to get the line truck to respond to electrical outages or emergancies. I have been told I can, and cannot does anyone know the straight scoop.

Thank you

Answer 1

Yes you can. If you will save all of your expense receipts for your truck (oil, gas, tires, ect.) you can take them off of your taxes.

Answer 2

I hate to say this, but probably not.  The IRS's view is that you choose where you live and it's part of a normal commute, even if it's after hours.  They're not going to honor a mileage claim for that.  But call the IRS.  They're very helpful about answering questions like this and ultimately, it's their call, not mine, your boss's or your neighbor's.