Grubhub Driver Tax Write-Offs 2026

~5 min read

2026 Tax Summary — Grubhub

Grubhub drivers pay 15.3% self-employment tax on net earnings. On $35,000 net income: approximately $4,950 SE tax + $2,800 federal = $7,750 total tax. Quarterly payment: $1,938. Mileage at 72.5¢/mile and insulated bags are key deductions.

Grubhub drivers are independent contractors who receive a 1099-NEC. You file Schedule C and can deduct mileage, hot bags, phone costs, and vehicle expenses to significantly reduce your tax bill.

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Key Takeaways

01Track every business mile at $0.725/mile — it is your single largest deduction as a gig worker.
02Set aside 25–30% of net earnings for taxes and pay estimated quarterly by June 16, Sep 15, and Jan 15.
03Deduct 50% of your SE tax on Form 1040 — most gig workers miss this above-the-line deduction.

Grubhub Tax Write-Offs — Complete List 2026

$0.725/mile

Standard Mileage

Every mile to restaurant + to customer. Track from first acceptance to last delivery.

Full cost

Insulated Hot Bags

Hot bags, cold bags, drink carriers — required equipment.

50–100%

Phone & Data Plan

Navigation, Grubhub app, restaurant/customer communication.

100%

Parking & Tolls

All parking and tolls on active Grubhub orders.

Business %

Vehicle Maintenance

Oil changes, tires proportional to Grubhub miles.

Full cost

Phone Mount

Dashboard mount required for safe delivery navigation.

Business %

Car Washes

Proportional to business use percentage.

100%

Grubhub Platform Fees

Commission Grubhub takes from your earnings is deductible.

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Estimated Tax by Income — 2026

Net Income	SE Tax	Federal Tax	Total Est.
$15,000	$2,120	$1,260	$3,380
$25,000	$3,534	$2,520	$6,054
$40,000	$5,655	$4,536	$10,191

Related Deduction Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

“Self-employed individuals must pay both the employee and employer portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes, totalling 15.3% on net earnings up to $184,500.” — IRS.gov — Self-Employed Tax Center

What can Grubhub drivers deduct on taxes?

Mileage ($0.725/mile), insulated bags, phone and data plan, car maintenance proportional to deliveries, parking, tolls, and phone accessories.

Does Grubhub withhold taxes?

No. Grubhub pays drivers as independent contractors. You pay your own self-employment tax (15.3%) and income tax. Pay quarterly to avoid penalties.

What mileage rate do Grubhub drivers use in 2026?

The 2026 IRS standard mileage rate is $0.725 per mile for business driving. Track every delivery mile — to restaurant and to customer.

Can Grubhub drivers deduct a dash cam?

Yes. A dash cam is safety equipment used for work. It is a fully deductible business expense on Schedule C.

Do I need a separate bank account for Grubhub income?

Not required but strongly recommended. A separate account makes it much easier to track income and expenses for tax purposes.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This checklist is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized tax or legal advice. Tax rules change and your situation is unique — always follow official IRS guidance and consult a qualified tax professional before filing. IRS Gig Economy Tax Center →

EB

Written & reviewed by

Ethan Blake

Small Business Tax & Compliance Expert

Helped 5,000+ freelancers and 1099/self-employed workers navigate tax compliance since 2017.

Last reviewed: May 2026 IRS Self-Employed Tax Center →