Got a 1099? File your gig work taxes — without overpaying.
Whether you drive, deliver, freelance, or hustle on the side, TaxAct makes it easy to handle your gig income.
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The IRS sees gig workers as self-employed.
If you earn money outside a regular W-2 job, the IRS considers it self-employment income.
At tax time, you'll often get:
A 1099-NEC Form
Issued when you’re paid directly by a client or employer.
E.g. tutoring, freelance
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A 1099-K Form
Issued when you're paid through an app.
E.g. Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, Etsy
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Didn't get a form?
You still need to report what you earned. Add up what you made through cash, Venmo, PayPal, or anywhere else and we'll guide you through it.
You still need to report what you earned. Add up what you made through cash, Venmo, PayPal, or anywhere else and we'll guide you through it.
You still need to report what you earned. Add up what you made through cash, Venmo, PayPal, or anywhere else and we'll guide you through it.
Start FilingHow gig work taxes differ from regular W-2 jobs
W-2 Employee |  1099 Gig Worker  | 1099 Gig Worker | Both Hybrid |
|---|
| Taxes | Withheld automatically | Paid in full, no taxes withheld | W-2 covers some, gig income has none | Paid in full, no taxes withheld |
Social Security & Medicare | Employer pays half Social Security & Medicare | You pay both halves (self-employment tax) | Mix of both | You pay both halves (self-employment tax) |
Deductions | Deductions limited | E.g. Mileage, supplies, home office | Gig expenses apply | E.g. Mileage, supplies, home office |
Form | File W-2 only | File Schedule C with 1099s | File W-2 + 1099 together | File Schedule C with 1099s |
File Now, Pay Later
With Refund Transfer*, you can file your taxes today and pay us later using your tax refund. Apply and, if approved, add at filing for $54, and you're done.
File Now, Pay Later
With Refund Transfer*, you can file your taxes today and pay us later using your tax refund. Apply and, if approved, add at filing for $54, and you're done.
Best DIY tax program for contractors
“I cannot remember the first year I used TaxAct however, when they prompt me that the time to file is upon me I click the link and breeze through.”
@Amos Feb 25, 2025
Great
“First time filing as 1099 contract employee with a home office. Was very helpful.”
@Go la r bled May 6, 2025
Love TaxAct
“Easy to use. This was my time being a contractor and the easy to answer questions made it a breeze to complete my taxes.”
@RAP56 Feb 13, 2025
Tools that work as hard as your side hustle.
Smart, simple tools to help you estimate, plan, and file — so taxes don’t get in the way of your goals.
Know what you owe before you file
Quickly estimate your self-employment taxes and stay one step ahead.
Calculate Self-Employment Tax
Flexible ways to file and pay
Apply for Refund Transfer and, if approved, pay your tax prep fees directly from your federal refund — no upfront payment needed.
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Tips and insights for gig earners.
Explore our blog for smart tax tips and resources tailored to freelancers and gig workers.
Read Gig Work BlogFile confidently with Audit Defense — peace of mind for every kind of earner.
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3 years of protection on your returns
Stay covered with expert support on your federal and state returns — every step of the way.
Expert representation when you need it most
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You’re never alone in an audit
Gain confidence knowing tax experts are ready to guide and represent you every step of the way.
Ready to file?
Join more than 250,000 gig workers who have filed with TaxAct.
Ready to file?
Join more than 250,000 gig workers who have filed with TaxAct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. All income from gig work must be reported; even if no one sends you a 1099 or W-2.
You can find more on how to handle that in our gig worker tax filing guide