Driving and delivery
For drivers and shoppers, mileage is usually the largest deduction by far.
- Business miles at 72.5¢ in 2026
- Parking and tolls on the job
- Hot bags, phone mounts and chargers
- Platform service fees
Gig worker tax deductions
Gig worker tax deductions: the 2026 checklist
Every dollar you deduct lowers both income tax and the 15.3% self-employment tax. For most gig workers that makes each deduction worth 25–40 cents in tax saved.
Hate Ledger catches these as you spend, sorts them into Schedule C lines, and cuts your tax set-aside the moment a deduction is logged.
Freelance and online gigs
Upwork, Fiverr, Etsy and other online workers deduct the tools of the trade.
- Platform fees and payment processing
- Software, subscriptions and equipment
- Home office by area or the simplified method
- Internet and phone share
Deductions everyone forgets
These sit outside Schedule C but still cut your bill.
- Half of self-employment tax
- Self-employed health insurance premiums
- Solo 401(k) or SEP IRA contributions
- Qualified business income deduction (up to 20%)
Common questions about gig worker tax deductions
- What can gig workers write off?
- Anything ordinary and necessary for the work: mileage, phone share, supplies, platform fees, software, a home office if used regularly and only for work, plus health insurance and retirement contributions.
- Do I need receipts?
- Keep records for anything you deduct. For mileage, a log with date, miles and purpose is enough under the standard rate. Snap receipts in the app for everything else.
- Can I take the standard deduction and business deductions?
- Yes. Business expenses come off first on Schedule C, then you still get the standard deduction on your personal return.
- Is it free?
- Yes. Deduction tracking and mileage are on the free forever tier, no card required.
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