Uber Driver Taxes in Kansas - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Uber Drivers in Kansas

Navigating the Sunflower State as an Uber driver offers flexibility, but it also comes with tax responsibilities. As an independent contractor, understanding how to properly report income and claim deductions is crucial for maximizing earnings and avoiding potential issues with the IRS and the Kansas Department of Revenue.

Federal law requires Uber drivers to report their earnings as self-employment income on Schedule C (Profit or Loss From Business) when filing their annual tax return (Form 1040). Earnings over $400 necessitate the payment of self-employment taxes, which cover both Social Security and Medicare contributions. Platforms such as Uber do not withhold these taxes, making proactive tax planning essential.

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 taxpayers filing as self-employed individuals will primarily use Form K-40 to report their income. The income reported on your federal Schedule C will flow to your Kansas return. Kansas also requires Schedule K-1 (Form K-40) to report income from partnerships, S corporations, trusts, and estates. It's important to note that Kansas offers several deductions and credits that can reduce your state tax liability. These include standard or itemized deductions, and potential credits for things like property taxes paid. Kansas also has a provision for deducting qualified business income (QBI), similar to the federal Section 199A deduction, which can be particularly beneficial for Uber drivers. Keep meticulous records of all income and expenses to accurately calculate your Kansas tax obligations. The Kansas Department of Revenue provides detailed information and resources on their website: Kansas Department of Revenue. Failure to file and pay state taxes on time can result in penalties and interest.

Top Tax Deductions for Kansas Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The most popular deduction for Uber drivers. For the 2025 tax year, the standard mileage rate is 70 cents per mile. Given Kansas's relatively moderate gas prices, 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 while actively driving for Uber are deductible. Parking fees directly related to pickups and drop-offs are also deductible.
• Phone & Data Plan: If you use your personal phone for Uber driving (which is common), you can deduct the percentage of your monthly bill that corresponds to business use. Keep a log of the time spent driving to accurately calculate this percentage.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car washes, phone mounts, dash cams, first-aid kits, and insulated food bags used specifically for Uber deliveries are deductible.

Key Warning: You cannot deduct both the standard mileage rate and actual car expenses (like gas, oil changes, repairs, insurance, and depreciation) 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. Because Uber and similar platforms classify drivers as independent contractors, they do not withhold these taxes from your earnings. Therefore, it is your responsibility to calculate and pay this tax, typically through estimated tax payments made quarterly to the IRS. This prevents underpayment penalties at the end of the year.