Rebeka Barefield
Tracking mileage is essential for professionals seeking accurate reimbursements and tax deductions. While numerous mileage tracker apps are available, many come with a price tag. However, several mileage tracker apps for free options offer valuable features suitable for various needs. This article explores both free and paid versions of popular mileage tracker apps, helping you choose the best fit for your requirements.
Table of Contents
1. Everlance
Everlance is designed with freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners in mind. It offers robust tracking and reporting features that simplify mileage tax preparation and expense management.
Free Version
The free version allows up to 30 automatically detected trips per month and unlimited manual trip logging. Users can also track expenses and access basic reporting tools to simplify record-keeping.
Paid Version
The premium plan ($8/month or $60/year) includes unlimited automatic trip detection, bank and credit card integration for expense tracking, and advanced reporting features.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface with minimal setup required
- Excellent for tracking both mileage and expenses
- Exportable IRS-compliant reports
Cons
- Free version limits automatic tracking
- Subscription cost may add up for occasional users
Best For: Freelancers and small business owners looking for a combined mileage and expense tracker.
2. TripLog
TripLog caters to both individual users and businesses, offering customizable features to meet diverse needs. Its multiple tracking options make it versatile for various driving patterns.
Free Version
Provides up to 40 manually logged trips per month. While it lacks automatic tracking in the free plan, users can still access basic expense tracking and trip organization tools.
Paid Version
Starting at $5.99/month, the paid version includes unlimited automatic mileage tracking, fuel and expense tracking, and integration with accounting software. Additional features include real-time route optimization and gas price finders.
Pros
- Offers a variety of tracking modes (manual, GPS, Bluetooth)
- Integrates seamlessly with business tools like QuickBooks
- Fuel expense tracking and cost efficiency reports are a plus
Cons
- Slightly more complex to set up compared to other apps
- Free plan lacks automatic tracking
Best For: Small businesses and frequent drivers requiring detailed expense and fuel tracking.
3. MileIQ
MileIQ is a simple yet powerful app designed for professionals with straightforward mileage tracking needs. It uses automatic detection to classify trips quickly and efficiently.
Free Version
Users can automatically log up to 40 trips per month and manually classify them as personal or business. This is ideal for light users who need an intuitive tracking solution.
Paid Version
At $5.99/month or $59.99/year, users gain unlimited trip tracking, automatic drive detection, and easy classification of trips as business or personal.
Pros
- Easy-to-navigate interface with automatic drive detection
- Excellent for busy professionals who prioritize simplicity
- Reports are well-organized and easy to export
Cons
- Limited integrations with other tools
- May not suffice for complex needs.
Best For: Professionals with simple mileage tracking needs.
4. Driversnote
Driversnote focuses on creating mileage logs that are compliant with tax authorities, making it a go-to solution for users needing accurate, audit-ready records.
Free Version
Includes up to 20 manually tracked trips per month and basic reporting features. While it lacks automatic trip tracking in the free plan, users can manually input trip details for tax purposes.
Paid Version
The premium version, priced at $9.50/month or $99/year, includes unlimited trip tracking, advanced reporting options, and integrations with accounting tools for seamless tax preparation.
Pros
- Specifically designed for tax compliance
- Generates detailed, audit-ready mileage logs
- Allows custom notes for each trip
Cons
- Limited features in the free plan
- Slightly more expensive than similar apps
Best For: Tax-focused users needing detailed mileage logs.
5. MileageWise
MileageWise stands out as a feature-rich app with an AI Mileage Log Generator. This makes it a unique option for those needing to reconstruct past mileage logs.
Free Version
Offers a 14-day free trial with access to all premium features, including automatic trip detection, IRS-compliant reporting, and AI-driven retrospective logging.
Paid Version
After the trial, plans start at $6.99/month, providing personalized automatic trip detection, accurate and editable trip logs, multiple integrations, and a built-in IRS auditor to ensure IRS-Proof mileage logs.
Comparison Summary
| App | Free Version | Paid Version | Pricing (Paid) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Everlance | 30 trips/month, expense tracking | Unlimited trips, bank integration, reports | $8/month or $60/year | Freelancers and small business owners |
| TripLog | 40 trips/month | Advanced expense tracking, integrations | $5.99/month | Large Businesses and teams |
| MileIQ | 40 trips/month | Unlimited trips, simple classification | $5.99/month or $60/year | Professionals with simple mileage needs |
| Driversnote | 20 trips/month | Advanced reports, compliance features | $9.50/month | Tax-focused users |
| MileageWise | 14-day free premium trial with all features available | Automatic mileage tracking, AI Trip recovery, IRS-Proof reports | $6.99/month | Professionals who need a comprehensive mileage-tracking solution |
Conclusion
When selecting a mileage tracker app, consider your specific needs, such as the number of trips you take, the importance of automatic tracking, and whether you require integration with other financial tools. Testing the free versions or trials of these apps can help determine which one aligns best with your business requirements.
FAQ
What is the best free mileage tracker app?
The best free mileage tracker app depends on your needs. If you require automatic tracking and comprehensive expense management, Everlance and Stride are great options. For IRS-compliant reporting, Driversnote or MileageWise may be a better fit.
Are free mileage tracker apps accurate?
Yes, most free mileage tracker apps are accurate, especially those with GPS-based tracking. However, free versions may limit automatic tracking or the number of trips you can log, which can impact usability for heavy users.
How do mileage tracker apps help with taxes?
The best mileage tracker apps help create detailed records of business trips, ensuring compliance with tax authorities like the IRS. They also provide reports that simplify claiming deductions or reimbursements.
Can I use a free mileage tracker app for DoorDash or rideshare driving?
Yes, apps like Everlance and TripLog are popular among gig workers. They can track both mileage and expenses, making them ideal for drivers working with DoorDash, Uber, or Lyft.
What features should I look for in a mileage tracker app?
Look for features like automatic trip detection, expense tracking, reporting capabilities, and integrations with accounting software. Free trials or free versions are a good way to explore these features before committing.
Level Up Your Mileage Tracking
Switch to MileageWise’s automatic mileage tracker app and save time!
Automatic Tracking: Tracks trips automatically via vehicle movement, Bluetooth, and Plug’N’Go without draining your battery.
AI-Powered Mileage Recovery: The AI Wizard helps reconstruct past mileage logs, filling gaps in your log to ensure compliance.
Built-in IRS Auditor: Checks and corrects up to 70 logical errors in logs, ensuring they meet IRS standards for tax deductions.
Web Dashboard & Team Collaboration: Manage logs, import trips, and collaborate with teams through the web dashboard, ideal for businesses.
Download MileageWise’s automatic mileage tracker app from Google Play or the App Store & try it for free for 14 days. No credit card required!
