The Jury Duty Mileage Reimbursement Most People Never Claim
Here's something that surprised me when I researched this: virtually every court in the country — state and federal — reimburses jurors for the miles they drive to the courthouse. And a surprisingly large number of jurors never claim it.
The amounts are small per trip, but if you serve on a lengthy trial, they add up. Here's everything you need to know.
2026 Mileage Reimbursement Rates by Court Type
| Court | Mileage Rate (2026) |
|---|---|
| Federal courts | $0.67/mile (each way) |
| California state courts | $0.34/mile |
| New York state courts | $0.19/mile |
| Florida state courts | $0.29/mile |
| Pennsylvania state courts | $0.17/mile |
| Texas state courts | Varies by county ($0.17–$0.67/mile) |
Note: Many state courts use the IRS standard mileage rate or a percentage of it. Always check with your specific court.
How to Calculate What You're Owed
It's simple: distance from your home to the courthouse (one way) × 2 × mileage rate × number of days served.
Example: You live 12 miles from the courthouse and serve 4 days in a California state court:
- 12 miles × 2 (round trip) = 24 miles/day
- 24 miles × $0.34 = $8.16/day
- $8.16 × 4 days = $32.64 total mileage reimbursement
How to Actually Claim It
In most courts, you claim mileage on the same form you use to record your attendance. When you check in each morning, there's usually a form asking for your address and distance traveled. Fill it out accurately.
Some courts automatically calculate your mileage based on your address and the courthouse location. Others require you to submit the mileage manually. If you're not sure, ask the jury clerk on your first day — it's a very normal question.
Can You Claim Parking Too?
In federal courts, yes — actual parking costs are reimbursed with a receipt. In state courts, it varies. Some courts provide free parking for jurors; others reimburse a set amount per day. Ask when you arrive on day one.
What If You Take Public Transit?
Most courts reimburse public transit costs — bus, subway, train — at actual cost. Keep your transit cards or receipts and submit them with your attendance form.
Is Mileage Reimbursement Taxable?
For federal courts, mileage reimbursement at the IRS rate is not taxable. For state courts, the rules can vary slightly, but generally small mileage reimbursements are not considered taxable income. If you receive a 1099 from the court, review it carefully — it should only include your daily attendance fees, not properly reimbursed travel costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the jury duty mileage reimbursement rate in 2026?
Federal courts reimburse $0.67 per mile (each way). State court rates vary: California pays $0.34/mile, New York pays $0.19/mile, Florida pays $0.29/mile, and Pennsylvania pays $0.17/mile. Check with your specific court for the exact rate.
How do I claim mileage reimbursement for jury duty?
When you check in at the courthouse, fill out the attendance and mileage form with your address and the distance you traveled. Many courts automatically calculate mileage from your address; others require you to self-report. Ask the jury clerk on your first day if you're unsure.
Is jury duty mileage reimbursement taxable?
Generally no — mileage reimbursement at the IRS standard rate is not taxable income. Only your daily attendance fees are taxable. If you receive a court-issued payment document, review it to confirm mileage is listed separately from your attendance fees.