Turo Host Taxes in Georgia - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Turo Hosts in Georgia

Sharing your vehicle on Turo provides a flexible income stream, but as a Georgia resident, understanding the tax implications is crucial for a smooth tax season. Revenue generated through Turo is considered taxable income by both the federal government and the state of Georgia.

The IRS requires Turo hosts to report their earnings on Schedule C (Profit or Loss From Business) as self-employment income. This means not only income tax, but also self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare) applies to net earnings exceeding $400. Accurate record-keeping of income and expenses is paramount for maximizing deductions and minimizing tax liability.

How Georgia Handles Gig Worker Taxes

As a resident of Georgia, you are required to file a state income tax return, even if no state income tax is due. Georgia operates under a flat income tax rate system, meaning all income is taxed at the same percentage. For the 2025 tax year, the Georgia income tax rate is 5.49%. Turo income is considered part of your adjusted gross income and is subject to this flat tax. Self-employed individuals in Georgia will primarily use Form 540, Individual Income Tax Return, to report their Turo earnings. Schedule 1, Additional Income and Adjustments, will be used to report business income from Schedule C. Georgia also allows for a standard deduction, which can reduce your taxable income. It's important to note that Georgia does not have a separate tax form specifically for gig workers; the standard individual income tax return and associated schedules are used. Georgia also offers various credits and deductions that may be applicable, so exploring the Georgia Department of Revenue website is highly recommended. Failure to accurately report income can result in penalties and interest, so diligent record-keeping is essential. Remember to keep records of all income received from Turo, as well as all related expenses, for at least three years in case of an audit.

Top Tax Deductions for Georgia Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The most popular deduction for Turo hosts. The 2025 rate is 70 cents per mile. Given Georgia’s relatively moderate gas prices compared to states like California, the standard mileage rate is often a beneficial and simplified method for calculating vehicle expenses.
• Tolls & Parking: Georgia has Peach Pass for electronic toll collection on express lanes. Keep detailed records of all toll and parking fees incurred while your vehicle is being rented through Turo.
• Phone & Data Plan: If you use your phone for Turo-related activities (communication with renters, managing listings), you can deduct the percentage of your monthly bill attributable to business use.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car wash supplies, air fresheners, phone mounts for renters, and even small amenities can be deducted as business expenses.

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

Understanding the 15.3% Self-Employment Tax

As a Turo host, you are considered self-employed. This means you are responsible for paying both the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes, totaling 15.3%. Turo and other rental platforms do not withhold these taxes from your earnings. This tax is calculated on your net earnings (income minus business expenses) exceeding $400. You will calculate and pay this tax through Schedule SE (Self-Employment Tax) when you file your federal income tax return.