Being a self-employed Uber or Lyft driver comes with its own set of unique financial challenges. One of the ways to navigate this is by understanding the various tax write-offs and deductions available to you. These can significantly reduce your taxable income and increase your take-home pay. Here's a comprehensive list of tax deductions that you should be aware of.
As an Uber or Lyft driver, you might often find yourself eating on the go. These meals can be written off as business expenses. Whether it's a quick bite at a fast-food joint or a sit-down meal at a restaurant, keep those receipts!
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 24b on your tax return.
Car accessories are not just for show, they can also be necessary for the job. This could include anything from a GPS device to a phone mount. These items can be written off as business expenses.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 22 on your tax return.
Car insurance and registration fees are necessary expenses for any driver. As an Uber or Lyft driver, these costs can be deducted from your taxable income. Make sure to keep a record of these expenses.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 15 on your tax return.
Regular car maintenance is a must for any driver, especially for those who drive for a living. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance. These costs can be deducted from your taxable income.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 9 on your tax return.
If you've purchased a car specifically for your Uber or Lyft business, you can write off the cost of the car and its depreciation. This can be a significant deduction, so don't overlook it.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 13 on your tax return.
Keeping your car clean and presentable is part of the job when you're an Uber or Lyft driver. The costs of car washing and detailing services can be written off as business expenses.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 27a on your tax return.
Floor mats and seat covers not only protect your car's interior, but they also provide comfort for your passengers. These items can be written off as business expenses.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 22 on your tax return.
If you use a part of your home as an office for your Uber or Lyft business, you can write off the cost of home office furniture. This includes desks, chairs, and other necessary furniture.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 18 on your tax return.
If you're traveling for your Uber or Lyft business, you can write off the cost of meals. This can be a significant deduction if you're often on the road.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 24a on your tax return.
Music can make the ride more enjoyable for your passengers. If you subscribe to a music service for your Uber or Lyft business, you can write off the subscription cost.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 27a on your tax return.
Parking fees can add up quickly, especially in busy city centers. As an Uber or Lyft driver, you can write off these costs as business expenses.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 27a on your tax return.
If you provide water, snacks, or other refreshments for your passengers, you can write off these costs. It's a small touch that can make a big difference in your passengers' experience.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 27a on your tax return.
Your phone is an essential tool for your Uber or Lyft business. The cost of your phone, as well as any necessary accessories, can be written off as business expenses.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 27a on your tax return.
If you use a part of your home as an office for your Uber or Lyft business, a portion of your power bill can be written off. This can include the cost of charging your phone, laptop, or other devices used for work.
How to write it off: Report it on Form 8829 on your tax return.
Productivity apps can help you manage your time and tasks more efficiently. If you use any of these apps for your Uber or Lyft business, you can write off the cost.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 27a on your tax return.
If you use a part of your home as an office for your Uber or Lyft business, a portion of your property insurance can be written off. This can help offset the cost of protecting your home and business assets.
How to write it off: Report it on Form 8829 on your tax return.
If you use a part of your home as an office for your Uber or Lyft business, you can write off the cost of repairs. This can include anything from fixing a leaky faucet to repainting the walls.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 21 on your tax return.
Tolls are a common expense for many drivers. As an Uber or Lyft driver, you can write off these costs as business expenses. Be sure to keep track of these expenses.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 27a on your tax return.
If you use public transportation for any business-related activities, you can write off these costs. This can include bus fares, train tickets, or even flights if you're traveling for business.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 24a on your tax return.
If you're traveling for your Uber or Lyft business, you can write off the cost of lodging. This can include hotels, motels, or other forms of accommodation.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 24a on your tax return.
A vehicle tool kit is a must-have for any driver. It can help you handle minor repairs and emergencies on the road. As an Uber or Lyft driver, you can write off the cost of a vehicle tool kit.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 22 on your tax return.
If you use a part of your home as an office for your Uber or Lyft business, a portion of your water bill can be written off. This can help offset the cost of maintaining your home office.
How to write it off: Report it on Form 8829 on your tax return.
Wi-Fi is essential for running your Uber or Lyft business. The cost of your Wi-Fi bill can be written off as a business expense. This can be a significant deduction, especially if you use a lot of data for your business.
How to write it off: Report it on Schedule C, Box 25 on your tax return.