Amazon Flex Taxes in Orlando, Florida - 2026

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Amazon Flex Drivers in Orlando, Florida

Navigating the vibrant streets of Orlando as an Amazon Flex driver offers flexibility, but also introduces unique tax considerations. Delivering packages from the theme parks to the bustling downtown area requires understanding how your earnings are taxed.

As an independent contractor for Amazon Flex, the IRS considers you self-employed. This means you are responsible for reporting your income on Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) with your Form 1040, and paying self-employment taxes – covering both Social Security and Medicare – on any net earnings exceeding $400. Accurate record-keeping throughout the year is crucial for a smooth tax filing process.

How Florida Handles Gig Worker Taxes

Florida stands out as one of the few states with no state income tax. This means Amazon Flex drivers in Orlando, and throughout the state, do not need to file a state income tax return. However, this doesn’t mean taxes are absent. While you avoid state income tax, it’s vital to understand that Florida’s status as a major tourism destination, and the prevalence of cash-based businesses, can lead to increased scrutiny from the IRS. The IRS may be more likely to audit gig workers in high-tourism areas like Miami and Orlando, particularly those with significant cash income. Maintaining meticulous records of all income and expenses is paramount. Furthermore, while there's no state income tax, you are still responsible for federal taxes, including self-employment tax. Orlando’s traffic patterns and parking availability can also impact your business expenses, making accurate tracking of mileage and parking fees essential. Remember to keep detailed logs of your deliveries, including dates, times, and locations, to support your deductions. For business registration and information, visit the Florida Division of Corporations, Sunbiz.org: https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/.

Top Tax Deductions for Orlando, Florida Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The most popular and often simplest deduction. For the 2025 tax year, the standard mileage rate is 70 cents per mile. This rate covers wear and tear, gas, oil, and other vehicle-related expenses.
• Tolls & Parking: Orlando’s roadways, particularly around popular attractions and during peak seasons, often involve tolls. Utilize SunPass or E-Pass for efficient toll payment and remember to deduct these expenses. Parking fees incurred while actively making deliveries are also deductible.
• Phone & Data Plan: If you use your phone for business purposes – navigating with apps, communicating with Amazon, etc. – you can deduct the percentage of your monthly bill attributable to business use.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car washes to maintain a professional appearance, phone mounts for safe navigation, insulated hot bags for food deliveries, and dash cams for security are all potentially deductible business expenses.

Key Warning: You cannot deduct both the standard mileage rate and actual car expenses (like gas, oil, repairs, insurance) in the same tax year. Choose the method that yields the larger deduction.

Understanding the 15.3% Self-Employment Tax

The 15.3% self-employment tax comprises two components: 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare. Unlike traditional employment, Amazon Flex and other gig platforms do not withhold these taxes from your earnings. Therefore, you are responsible for calculating and paying this tax, typically through estimated tax payments throughout the year to avoid penalties.