QUESTION
Can I claim business mileage using Google Maps history in Canada?
Yes — Google Maps Timeline / Location History can help support a business mileage claim in Canada, but it should be treated as backup evidence, not the whole record.
For CRA purposes, you should keep a mileage log that shows, at minimum:
- the date of each trip
- the destination
- the business purpose
- the kilometres driven
Google Maps history can help you reconstruct dates, routes, and distances, but it does not replace a proper log showing why the trip was business-related.
Practical way to use Google Maps history
- Pull your location history from Google Maps or Google Takeout.
- Identify business trips by matching dates and locations with calendars, emails, invoices, or client notes.
- Build a mileage log with the date, route, purpose, and kilometres.
- Keep supporting documents in case the CRA asks for proof.
Important caveat
If you are trying to recreate a logbook after the fact, that is generally more vulnerable on audit than a log kept in real time. It can still help, but you should verify current CRA record-keeping expectations and keep as much supporting evidence as possible.
Because CRA requirements and audit practices can change, it is a good idea to check the current CRA guidance or ask a tax professional if this is for a filing or audit.