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The complete list — what qualifies, what documentation you need, and which deductions get scrutinized most by the IRS. No fluff, no overly optimistic claims.
72.5¢ per business mile in 2026. Most drivers' single largest deduction. Requires a contemporaneous mileage log — GPS app recommended. Covers gas, wear, insurance, and depreciation in one number.
Tolls paid during business trips and parking fees while on a job are deductible even if you use the standard mileage rate. Keep receipts or EZPass statements.
Washing your vehicle for business use (rideshare requires a clean car) is deductible. Claim the business-use percentage if you also drive personally. Keep receipts.
Deduct the percentage of your phone used for gig work — navigating, managing orders, communicating with customers. 60–70% is defensible for active gig workers. 100% will get questioned.
A mount used to hold your phone while driving for work is a deductible supply. Keep the receipt. Small dollar amount but legitimate.
A charger purchased specifically to keep your phone powered during gig shifts is deductible as a business supply.
Paid mileage tracking apps (MileIQ, Everlance) are fully deductible as a business expense. Keep the subscription receipt.
Hot bags, insulated totes, and drink carriers purchased for delivery work are deductible supplies. Keep receipts.
Instacart and grocery delivery shoppers who purchase coolers or insulated bags specifically for keeping deliveries fresh can deduct these.
| Deduction | Documentation Needed | How Long to Keep |
|---|---|---|
| Mileage | Contemporaneous log with date, start/end location, miles, business purpose | 3 years after filing |
| Phone bill | Monthly statements showing total + your calculation of business % | 3 years after filing |
| Supplies/equipment | Receipts showing item, date, amount, and business purpose | 3 years after filing |
| Tolls/parking | EZPass statements, parking receipts, or credit card records | 3 years after filing |
| App subscriptions | Email confirmation or credit card statement | 3 years after filing |
GigExit Pro tracks your real hourly rate after gas, miles, vehicle wear, and self-employment tax. Not what the app shows — what you actually keep.
See GigExit Pro →The standard mileage deduction is 72.5 cents per business mile in 2026. This covers gas, wear, insurance, and depreciation in one number and is typically a gig worker's single largest deduction.
Yes, the standard mileage deduction requires a contemporaneous mileage log. A GPS app is recommended to maintain accurate records for IRS compliance.
Yes, tolls paid during business trips and parking fees while on a job are deductible separately even if you use the standard mileage rate. Keep receipts or EZPass statements for documentation.
You can deduct the percentage of your phone bill used for gig work, such as navigating and managing orders. A 60-70% deduction is defensible for active gig workers if properly documented.