Uber Driver Taxes: Complete Guide for 2026
As an Uber driver, you're classified as an independent contractor, which means you're responsible for handling your own taxes. Uber doesn't withhold federal income tax, Social Security, or Medicare from your earningsyou receive your full payment and must set aside money for taxes yourself.
This guide covers everything Uber drivers need to know about taxes, including what forms you'll receive, which expenses you can deduct, how much to set aside, and when to make quarterly payments.
Calculate Your Uber Driver Taxes
Understanding Your Uber Tax Forms
Uber will send you tax forms by January 31st if you meet certain earnings thresholds:
1099-NEC
You'll receive Form 1099-NEC if you earned $600 or more from Uber during the year. This form shows your total gross earnings before any expenses or deductions. You'll report this income on Schedule C of your tax return.
1099-K
You may also receive Form 1099-K if you had $600 or more in payment transactions. This form reports payments processed through Uber's payment system. Make sure not to double-count income if you receive both forms.
Top Tax Deductions for Uber Drivers
Deductions reduce your taxable income and lower your tax bill. Here are the most valuable deductions for Uber drivers:
1. Mileage Deduction (Biggest Savings)
Deduct 67 cents per mile (2026 rate) for all business miles. This includes miles driven while waiting for requests, driving to pick up passengers, and driving passengers to their destinations.
Calculate Your Mileage Deduction ?2. Phone and Data Plan
Deduct the business portion of your phone bill and data plan. If you use your phone 80% for Uber, you can deduct 80% of the monthly cost.
3. Car Washes and Cleaning
Keep your car clean for passengers? Deduct car washes, interior cleaning, and detailing costs.
4. Tolls and Parking
Deduct tolls paid while driving for Uber and parking fees incurred during trips.
5. Passenger Amenities
Water bottles, mints, phone chargers, and other items you provide to passengers are deductible business expenses.
How Much Should You Set Aside for Taxes?
A good rule of thumb is to set aside 25-30% of your gross Uber earnings for taxes. This covers:
- Self-employment tax (15.3% on net earnings)
- Federal income tax (varies by tax bracket)
- State income tax (if applicable)
The exact amount depends on your total income, deductions, and filing status. Use the calculator above to get a personalized estimate.
Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments
If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes, you must make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties. The deadlines are:
Q1
April 15
Q2
June 15
Q3
Sept 15
Q4
Jan 15
Related Resources for Uber Drivers
How to File Taxes as a Gig Worker
Step-by-step guide to filing your tax return as an Uber driver, including Schedule C instructions.
View Filing GuideSelf-Employment Tax Explained
Understand the 15.3% self-employment tax and how it affects your total tax bill.
Learn About SE TaxFrequently Asked Questions
Stay on Top of Your Uber Driver Taxes
The key to managing taxes as an Uber driver is staying organized throughout the year. Track your mileage daily, save receipts for all business expenses, and set aside money for taxes with each payment you receive.
Use the tools and resources on this page to calculate your taxes, understand your deductions, and make timely quarterly payments. Proper tax planning can save you thousands of dollars per year.