What Expenses Can Gig Workers Deduct on Taxes?
Greg Swanson
Gig workers often pay more in taxes—but the good news is, they can also deduct more. If you’re self-employed, every dollar you spend on business activities could lower your tax bill. So what can you write off?
Gig worker tax deductions include a wide range of business expenses like mileage, supplies, and software that directly support your work.
Common Deductions for Gig Workers
- Vehicle Expenses: Mileage, gas, maintenance, and depreciation if you use your car for gigs like deliveries or rideshare.
- Home Office: If you have a dedicated space for work, you can deduct a portion of rent, utilities, and internet.
- Supplies and Equipment: Laptops, tools, office materials, or anything you buy to complete your work.
Less-Obvious Write-Offs
- Phone Bills: You can deduct the portion of your phone used for work, including calls, data, and apps.
- Software and Subscriptions: Canva, Zoom, QuickBooks—any tool used for gig work may qualify.
- Marketing: Ads, social media boosts, or domain names used to promote your services.
How to Track and Claim Deductions
- Keep Receipts: Save receipts and invoices for anything business-related.
- Use a Tracker: Tools like Keeper, Stride, or spreadsheets help log expenses as you go.
- Separate Accounts: Using a different card or bank account for work makes deductions easier to manage.
Pro Tips for Lowering Your Tax Bill
- Estimate Quarterly Taxes: Don’t get caught off guard—set money aside and pay as you earn.
- Talk to a Tax Pro: An accountant can help you find deductions you might miss on your own.
- Don’t Deduct Personal Stuff: Only claim expenses directly related to your work to avoid IRS issues.
The more organized you are, the more you can deduct. Gig worker tax deductions can help you keep more of what you earn—just be honest, accurate, and thorough. Keep receipts, log mileage, and know what counts as a true business expense.
Updated: June 23, 2025
What expenses can gig workers deduct on taxes?
Gig workers can deduct business-related expenses like mileage, equipment, software, phone bills, and home office costs used for their freelance work.
Can I deduct my phone bill as a gig worker?
Yes, you can deduct the portion of your phone bill used for business-related tasks like client calls, work apps, or managing gigs.
How do I track my freelance business expenses?
Use apps like Keeper or spreadsheets to log expenses. Save receipts, separate business accounts, and track mileage consistently.
Are software subscriptions tax-deductible for freelancers?
Yes, tools like Canva, QuickBooks, or Zoom are deductible if they’re used to support your freelance or gig work.
What tax tips help gig workers save money?
Estimate quarterly taxes, avoid mixing personal and business expenses, and consult a tax professional to catch all eligible deductions.
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Greg Swanson
Greg Swanson is a technology and business writer with 12+ years of experience in AI and digital innovation. He specializes in AI-driven business growth, SEO, and emerging tech trends, offering actionable insights to help businesses stay ahead in a competitive online world.