Keeping a 12-week logbook with LogMetric

Choose a representative period

The ATO’s logbook method calls for at least 12 continuous weeks representative of your usual vehicle use. Choose a suitable period and check the full requirements for your circumstances in the ATO logbook guidance.

1. Check your vehicle details.
2. Select Logbook in Settings → Rates.
3. In Reports, open the period selector, choose 12 weeks, set its start date and tap Use 12-week period.

The report uses one vehicle and all classifications. A future end date is marked as still in progress.

Keep trip and odometer records

Record your journeys throughout the period. Check their dates, distances and vehicle, and explain each Business trip with a meaningful note or descriptive tag.

Keep actual odometer observations for journeys and the start and end of the logbook period. The ATO specifies odometer records alongside journey dates, distance and purpose; calculated trip estimates do not replace observations. See the ATO’s record requirements.

• Set up automatic tracking
  Allow the required access and check that trips are being recorded.
• Record odometer readings
  Save the dashboard value and the date and time observed.
• Add trip notes
  Record a specific business reason while it is fresh.

Review records throughout the period

Follow the weekly review routine to find missing journeys, classifications and purpose details. In Reports, check Records to check, actual odometer readings and any unavailable estimates.

LogMetric calculates business use from Business trip distance and the observed odometer distance. Missing trips or incorrect readings can affect that result. Correct the underlying records before relying on the report.

Finish the period and keep records current

At the end of the period, add the closing actual odometer reading, resolve outstanding issues and export an ATO Report using Logbook.

Continue maintaining odometer records in later income years and keep the supporting expense records required for your claim. The ATO’s motor vehicle expense guidance explains the ongoing records. A report organises your entries; it does not establish eligibility for a deduction.