Key takeaways
- Rideshare & Delivery Drivers file as 1099 / self-employed, so business expenses are deductible on Schedule C.
- Deductions cut both income tax and the 15.3% self-employment tax.
- The biggest write-offs for rideshare and delivery drivers are listed below, with what each covers.
- You need receipts and a mileage log to claim them.
Tax write-offs for rideshare and delivery drivers
Here are the deductions rideshare and delivery drivers most commonly claim. Each one lowers your net profit, and therefore your tax:
| Deduction | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Mileage | The standard mileage rate (70 cents per mile for 2025) covers gas, wear, and depreciation. Track every mile while online or driving to pick-ups. |
| Actual car expenses (alternative) | Instead of mileage, you can deduct the business share of gas, insurance, repairs, and depreciation. Pick one method per vehicle. |
| Phone and data plan | The business-use percentage of the phone and plan you use to run the apps. |
| Phone mounts and chargers | Mounts, chargers, and cables used for driving. |
| Tolls and parking | Tolls and parking fees incurred while working (not covered by the mileage rate). |
| Car cleaning and supplies | Car washes, detailing, and supplies to keep the vehicle rider-ready. |
| Passenger amenities | Water, snacks, gum, and phone chargers offered to riders. |
| Hot bags and delivery gear | Insulated bags, drink carriers, and equipment for delivery work. |
| Platform and service fees | Commissions and service fees the apps take from your earnings. |
| Health insurance and retirement | Self-employed health insurance premiums and SEP-IRA or Solo 401(k) contributions. |
How these deductions lower your tax
As a rideshare & delivery driver, your tax is based on net profit, which is your income minus these business expenses. Because both self-employment tax and income tax are calculated on that profit, every dollar you deduct is taxed at neither rate, saving most contractors roughly 25 to 40 cents on the dollar. The catch is documentation: you can only deduct what you can prove, so capturing receipts and miles through the year is what turns this list into real savings.
See what these deductions save you with our free calculators, then let NeoReceipt make sure you capture every one.