01/21/2026
While the IRS prefers receipts for proof of business expenses, several common deductions can be claimed using alternative documentation such as bank statements, mileage logs, or specific tax forms.
The following business expenses are commonly eligible for deduction without receipts:
1. Standard Mileage Deduction: Instead of saving receipts for gas, oil changes, and repairs, you can use the standard mileage rate (set at 72.5 cents per mile for 2026). To claim this, you must maintain a mileage log—either written or via an app—that records the date, total miles, business purpose, and locations of each trip.
2. Self-Employment Taxes: You can deduct half of your 15.3% self-employment tax. This deduction is calculated from your tax forms (specifically Schedule SE) rather than from receipts.
3. Retirement Contributions: Contributions to plans like a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k)can be claimed through account statements and official contribution records rather than receipts.
4. Self-Employed Health Insurance Premiums: These expenses are claimed using insurance statements, billing summaries, or official tax forms like Form 1095-A or Form 1099, provided the policy is in your name or your business's name.
5. Charitable Contributions: For cash donations under $250 to a charity, the IRS accepts bank records, canceled checks, or credit card statements, given they show the organization's name, the date, and the amount.
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