DoorDash Dasher Taxes in Idaho - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for DoorDash Dashers in Idaho

Delivering for DoorDash across the Gem State, from Boise’s bustling downtown to the scenic routes of Idaho Falls, offers flexibility, but also comes with tax responsibilities. As an independent contractor, DoorDash drivers in Idaho are considered self-employed by the IRS, meaning income earned through the platform is subject to both income tax and self-employment tax.

The IRS requires all self-employed individuals, including DoorDash Dashers, to report their earnings on Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) when filing their federal income tax return (Form 1040). Furthermore, earnings exceeding $400 necessitate the payment of self-employment taxes, which cover Social Security and Medicare contributions. Proper record-keeping throughout the year is crucial for accurate tax filing.

How Idaho Handles Gig Worker Taxes

As a resident of Idaho, a state income tax return is required, even if no federal tax is owed. Idaho operates under a flat income tax system, meaning all income is taxed at the same rate. For the 2025 tax year, the Idaho income tax rate is 5.8%. DoorDash income is considered taxable income and must be reported on Form 40, Idaho Individual Income Tax Return. Self-employed individuals will also likely need to file Schedule 1, Additional Income and Adjustments, to report their business income and deductions. Idaho also requires you to pay estimated taxes quarterly if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in state income tax. Failing to do so can result in penalties. Idaho’s tax laws generally follow federal guidelines for deductions available to self-employed individuals, but it’s important to consult the Idaho State Tax Commission’s website for the most up-to-date information and any specific state-level adjustments. Idaho does not offer a specific form for gig workers; you use the standard individual income tax forms and schedules. Remember to keep detailed records of all income and expenses to support your tax filings.

You can find more information and resources on the Idaho State Tax Commission website: https://tax.idaho.gov/

Top Tax Deductions for Idaho Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The most popular and often most beneficial deduction. The 2025 rate is 70 cents per mile. Given Idaho’s relatively moderate gas prices compared to states like California or Washington, the standard mileage rate is likely to be a strong choice for most Dashers.
• Tolls & Parking: While Idaho doesn’t have extensive toll road systems, any tolls incurred while actively dashing are deductible. Parking fees directly related to deliveries are also deductible.
• Phone & Data Plan: The portion of your monthly phone and data plan used for DoorDash deliveries is deductible. Keep a log of the percentage of time your phone is used for work versus personal use to justify the deduction.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car washes to maintain a professional appearance, phone mounts for safe navigation, insulated food bags, and dash cams are all deductible 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 larger deduction.

Understanding the 15.3% Self-Employment Tax

This tax comprises two components: 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare. Unlike traditional employment where these taxes are withheld from your paycheck, as a DoorDash Dasher, you are responsible for paying both the employer and employee portions. DoorDash and other gig platforms do not withhold these taxes for you, so it’s crucial to plan for this expense when filing your taxes. You can reduce your self-employment tax liability by deducting one-half of your self-employment tax from your gross income.