Uber Driver Taxes in Orlando, Florida - 2026

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Uber Drivers in Orlando, Florida

Navigating the vibrant streets of Orlando as an Uber driver offers flexibility, but also brings unique tax responsibilities. The Sunshine State’s bustling tourism and entertainment industry mean consistent demand, but also increased scrutiny from the IRS regarding income reporting for gig workers.

As an independent contractor for Uber, the IRS considers all earnings from driving as self-employment income. This means drivers are required to report this income on Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) when filing their federal income tax return. Crucially, this also triggers a responsibility to pay self-employment taxes, covering both Social Security and Medicare, which Uber does not withhold.

How Florida Handles Gig Worker Taxes

Florida stands out as one of the few states with no state income tax. This means Uber drivers in Orlando, and throughout Florida, do not need to file a state income tax return. However, this doesn’t mean tax obligations are nonexistent. While you get to skip filing a state income tax return, remember that Florida's high tourism can lead to more aggressive federal audits for cash-based gig work, especially in cities like Miami and Orlando. The IRS pays close attention to income reported from areas with significant tourist activity, and accurate record-keeping is paramount. Maintaining detailed logs of mileage, expenses, and earnings is essential to withstand potential scrutiny. Orlando’s specific traffic patterns and the need to potentially park while awaiting ride requests can also impact deductible mileage. Furthermore, be aware of any city-specific regulations regarding ride-sharing operations, as these could potentially influence business expense eligibility. It’s also important to understand that even without state income tax, you are still responsible for federal taxes and self-employment taxes on your net earnings. For business registration and information, visit the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations (Sunbiz.org): https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/

Top Tax Deductions for Orlando, Florida Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The #1 deduction for most drivers. The 2025 rate is 70 cents per mile. Given Orlando’s sprawling layout and frequent short trips, maximizing mileage deductions is particularly beneficial.
• Tolls & Parking: Orlando and its surrounding areas utilize SunPass for toll roads. All toll fees incurred while actively working (driving to pick up or drop off passengers) are deductible. Parking fees directly related to ride-sharing activities are also deductible.
• Phone & Data Plan: The percentage of your phone bill attributable to business use is deductible. Keep detailed records of how often you use your phone for Uber-related activities.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car washes, air fresheners, phone mounts, dash cams, and hot bags (for food delivery through Uber Eats) are deductible as business expenses.

Key Warning: You cannot deduct both the standard mileage rate and actual car expenses like gas or repairs in the same year. Choose the method that yields the largest deduction.

Understanding the 15.3% Self-Employment Tax

Self-employment tax is a combined Social Security and Medicare tax for individuals who work for themselves. Because Uber doesn’t withhold these taxes from your earnings, you are responsible for calculating and paying them directly to the IRS. This tax is 15.3% on net earnings over $400. Remember to factor this into your tax planning throughout the year to avoid a large tax bill when filing.