Which task is essential to ensure accuracy in the mileage tracker for year-end deductions?

Checking the calculated mileage is essential for ensuring accuracy in the mileage tracker for year-end deductions because it directly affects the amount of deductible expenses a taxpayer can claim. Accurate mileage calculations ensure that all business-related travel is accounted for correctly, which maximizes potential deductions and reduces the risk of errors during tax filing.

At year-end, all trips need to be reviewed and summed accurately to reflect total miles driven for business purposes. Mistakes in this calculation can lead to under-reporting or over-reporting of deductible mileage, which can have financial implications. Maintaining an accurate record ensures compliance with IRS regulations and supports any claims made during an audit.

While the review of unapproved trips and verification of mileage rates are important processes in managing a mileage tracking system, they do not directly influence the final mileage calculation that impacts tax deductions. Filing a tax extension has no relevance to the accuracy of mileage reported; it concerns tax deadlines rather than the deduction amounts themselves.