How to keep a consistent work kilometre log.

A practical routine for recording work trips while the details are fresh, whether the records are needed for reimbursement, administration, or tax-time discussion with an adviser.

Record each trip promptly

A log is easier to maintain when the trip is recorded at the end of the journey rather than reconstructed months later. Make the entry before the route, purpose, and odometer details become difficult to remember.

What to record

The information needed can vary, so confirm requirements with your employer, accountant, or tax adviser. A useful trip record commonly includes:

• the date of travel;
• the starting point and destination;
• the work-related purpose of the trip;
• the kilometres travelled or opening and closing odometer readings;
• the vehicle used; and
• notes or supporting records where relevant.

Separate work and private travel

A trip is not automatically work-related because it happened during a working day. Keep the stated purpose specific enough to understand later, and avoid combining private travel with a work entry unless your record clearly explains the distinction.

Use one method consistently

Scattered notes make review harder. Choose one place for trip records and use the same fields each time. Consistency matters more than creating a complicated system that is difficult to maintain.

Review the log regularly

Check the log weekly or monthly for missing dates, unclear purposes, and unusually long or short distances. Regular review catches mistakes while supporting details are still available.

Using the Tally Travel Logbook

Tally Money Manager includes a Travel Logbook for recording work trips and kilometres alongside the rest of your organised money records. Tally helps maintain records but does not determine deductibility or provide tax advice.

Important

This guide is general information only. Record-keeping and tax requirements depend on your circumstances and may change. Confirm the records you need with the relevant authority, your employer, accountant, or registered tax adviser.