Uber driver taxes in NYC, done right.
Driving for Uber makes you self-employed in the eyes of the IRS. That means more paperwork, but also deductions that can lower your tax a lot. Here’s how it works, and how we can file it for you.
What Uber sends you
| Document | What it shows | Official? |
|---|---|---|
| 1099-K | Your gross trip earnings for the year | Yes, IRS form |
| 1099-NEC | Referrals, promotions and other non-trip pay | Yes, IRS form |
| Annual tax summary | Earnings, possible deductible fees and your online miles | No, but very useful |
Uber says its annual documents are available by January 31 in the driver app (Account → Tax Info) and at drivers.uber.com.
Sources: Uber: Tax information for drivers · IRS: Understanding your Form 1099-K · IRS: About Form 1099-NEC
An Uber driver’s profit
Hamza drives Uber in Queens. In 2026 he earned $68,000 and drove 30,000 business miles. He also paid $1,800 in tolls and parking and $600 for the business share of his phone.
Without the deductions, Hamza would pay tax on $68,000 instead of $43,850.
Sources: IRS: 2026 standard mileage rate (72.5¢) · IRS: Topic 510, business use of car
Common Uber tax mistakes
- Reporting only the 1099 amount and forgetting income that had no form. All driving income is taxable.
- Not keeping a mileage log. The IRS expects records that back up your deduction.
- Deducting the full TLC insurance and also using the mileage rate. With the mileage rate, car costs like insurance are already included; tolls and parking can still be added.
- Skipping quarterly estimated taxes, then owing a large bill in April.
Sources: IRS: Gig economy tax center · IRS: Topic 510, business use of car · IRS: Estimated tax
File your taxes and handle your TLC insurance in the same office.
Thousands of New York City drivers already insure with Syed Insurance Agency. Now the same office prepares your taxes too, with a licensed CPA, at the best price in the market. Bring your Uber or Lyft tax documents and your TLC policy, and we take care of both.
Frequently asked
Do Uber drivers have to file taxes in NYC?
Yes. Uber drivers are generally self-employed and report their driving income and expenses on Schedule C, plus New York State and New York City income tax.
Can I deduct my TLC insurance?
Yes, if you use the actual expense method. If you use the standard mileage rate, insurance is already built into the rate.
Can you file my Uber taxes and renew my TLC insurance?
Yes. Book a free consultation and bring your Uber tax documents and your TLC policy.
Sources: Uber: Tax information for drivers · IRS: Understanding your Form 1099-K · IRS: About Form 1099-NEC · IRS: 2026 standard mileage rate (72.5¢) · IRS: Topic 510, business use of car · IRS: Gig economy tax center · IRS: Estimated tax · IRS: About Schedule C
Figures and rules on this page come from the official and published sources linked above, as of November 2026. People and numbers in the examples are made up to explain the idea. This page is general information, not tax or legal advice for your situation, and laws change; check the linked source or ask a licensed CPA before you act.
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