Almost all individual taxpayers other than those engaged in some kind of business where vehicle use is an everyday thing opt for the standard mileage deduction rather than deducting actual vehicle expenses. Do some google research and answer the following questions correctly:

1. The standard mileage rate is adjusted for inflation, usually once a year / every year. It usually is adjusted upward but not always. What was the most recent year-to-year change in which the IRS reduced (rather than increased) the standard mileage deduction rate for business miles?

2. When was the last time the IRS adjusted the standard mileage deduction rate for business miles in the middle of a calendar year?

3. If you are self-employed and opt for the standard mileage rate for deduct-ing the cost of driving around town on business errands using your per-sonal car, can you also deduct
   1. Tolls for driving on the George Bush?
   2. Parking?
   3. Gasoline?
   4. Car maintenance & repairs?

(Answer the items in 3 with either Yes or No without elaboration.)