The number of people engaged in the “gig” or sharing economy has been growing, according to several reports. There are tax consequences for the people who perform these jobs, which include providing car rides, delivering food, walking dogs and providing other services.
Bottom line: If you receive income from freelancing or from one of the online platforms offering goods and services, it’s generally taxable.
That’s true even if the income comes from a side job and even if you don’t receive an income statement reporting the amount of money you made.
Your Rudler, PSC advisors are here to help you navigate the tax effects of working in the gig economy.
Basics for gig workers
The IRS considers gig workers as those who are independent contractors and conduct their jobs through online platforms. Examples include Uber, Lyft, Airbnb and DoorDash.
Unlike traditional employees, independent contractors don’t receive benefits associated with employment or employer-sponsored health insurance. They also aren’t covered by the minimum wage or other protections of federal laws and they aren’t part of states’ unemployment insurance systems. In addition, they are on their own when it comes to retirement savings and tax obligations from the gig income.
Pay taxes throughout the year
If you are part of the gig or sharing economy, here are some tax considerations:
- You may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments because your income isn’t subject to withholding. These payments are generally due on April 15, June 15, September 15 and January 15 of the following year. (If a due date falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the due date becomes the next business day.)
- You should receive a Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation, a Form 1099-K or other income statement from the online platform.
- Some or all of your business expenses may be deductible on your tax return, subject to the normal tax limitations and rules. For example, if you provide rides with your own car, you may be able to deduct depreciation for wear and tear and deterioration of the vehicle. Be aware that if you rent a room in your main home or vacation home, the rules for deducting expenses can be complex.
Keeping records
It’s important to keep good records tracking income and expenses in case you are audited by the IRS or state tax authorities. Ideally, these records would be contemporaneous maintained.
If you are a gig worker, contact your Rudler, PSC advisor at 859-331-1717 to discuss your tax implications . You do not want to get an unwanted surprise when you file your tax return.
RUDLER, PSC CPAs and Business Advisors
This week's Rudler Review is presented by Evan Kandra, Staff Accountant and Audrey Goetz, CPA, CVA.
If you would like to discuss your particular situation, contact Evan or Audrey at 859-331-1717.
As part of Rudler, PSC's commitment to true proactive client partnerships, we have encouraged our professionals to specialize in their areas of interest, providing clients with specialized knowledge and strategic relationships. Be sure to receive future Rudler Reviews for advice from our experts, sign up today !