Instacart Shopper Taxes in Kansas - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Instacart Shoppers in Kansas

Navigating the Sunflower State as an Instacart shopper offers flexibility, but it also comes with tax responsibilities. As an independent contractor, earnings from Instacart are considered self-employment income, requiring careful attention during tax season.

The IRS requires all self-employed individuals, including Instacart shoppers, to report their income and pay taxes. This is typically done using Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) when filing Form 1040. Furthermore, earnings over $400 necessitate the payment of self-employment taxes, covering both Social Security and Medicare contributions, which are not automatically withheld from your Instacart payouts.

How Kansas Handles Gig Worker Taxes

As a resident of Kansas, a state income tax return is required, regardless of income level. Kansas utilizes a graduated income tax system, meaning the tax rate increases as your income rises. For the 2025 tax year, Kansas income tax rates are expected to remain similar to prior years, with brackets ranging from 3.1% to 7.8%. Instacart shoppers will report their self-employment income on Kansas Form K-40, and will likely need to file Schedule K-1 (Form K-40-SE) to detail income and expenses related to their business as an independent contractor. Kansas also requires taxpayers to calculate and pay estimated taxes quarterly if they expect to owe $1,000 or more in state income tax. Failing to do so can result in penalties. It's crucial to keep accurate records of all income and expenses throughout the year to ensure accurate tax filing. Kansas also offers various credits and deductions that may be applicable to self-employed individuals, so exploring these options is recommended. The Kansas Department of Revenue provides comprehensive information and resources for taxpayers; you can find more details at the Kansas Department of Revenue website.

Top Tax Deductions for Kansas Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The #1 deduction for most Instacart shoppers. The 2025 rate is 70 cents per mile. Given Kansas's relatively moderate gas prices compared to states like California, the standard mileage rate is often the most advantageous method for calculating vehicle expenses.
• Tolls & Parking: While Kansas doesn't have extensive toll road systems, any tolls incurred during deliveries are deductible. Parking fees directly related to Instacart deliveries are also deductible.
• Phone & Data Plan: You can deduct the percentage of your phone and data plan that is used for business purposes. Keep a log of business-related calls and data usage to support your deduction.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car cleaning supplies, phone mounts, insulated hot/cold bags, and dash cams used specifically for Instacart deliveries are deductible.

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 covers both Social Security and Medicare taxes. Unlike traditional employment where these taxes are withheld from your paycheck, as an Instacart shopper, you are responsible for paying both the employer and employee portions. This combined rate of 15.3% applies to your net earnings (income minus business expenses) exceeding $400. You'll calculate this tax on Schedule SE (Self-Employment Tax) when filing your federal income tax return.