Amazon Flex Taxes in Louisiana - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Amazon Flex Drivers in Louisiana

Delivering smiles across the bayous and bustling cities, Amazon Flex offers a flexible earning opportunity for Louisiana residents. However, that flexibility comes with tax responsibilities. As an independent contractor, understanding these obligations is crucial for a smooth tax season.

The IRS requires all Amazon Flex drivers to report their income on Schedule C (Profit or Loss From Business) with Form 1040. Furthermore, earnings exceeding $400 necessitate the payment of self-employment taxes, covering both Social Security and Medicare contributions, which are not automatically withheld from your Flex payouts.

How Louisiana Handles Gig Worker Taxes

As a resident of Louisiana, filing a state income tax return is mandatory, even if no state income tax is due. Louisiana operates under a graduated income tax system, meaning the tax rate increases as your income rises. For the 2025 tax year, self-employed individuals will primarily utilize Louisiana Form IT-540B, Individual Income Tax Return for Self-Employment Income, to report their Amazon Flex earnings and calculate any state income tax liability. Louisiana also allows for a deduction for the federal self-employment tax paid, which can reduce your overall state tax burden. It's important to note that Louisiana's tax laws can be complex, and changes occur frequently. Keep meticulous records of all income and expenses. Louisiana offers various credits and deductions that may apply to your specific situation, so exploring these options is recommended. The state also has specific rules regarding estimated tax payments; if you anticipate owing $1,000 or more in state income tax, you may be required to make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties. Louisiana's Department of Revenue provides comprehensive information and resources for taxpayers. You can find more details at Louisiana Department of Revenue.

Top Tax Deductions for Louisiana Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The most popular and often simplest deduction. For the 2025 tax year, the standard mileage rate is 70 cents per mile. Given Louisiana's relatively moderate gas prices compared to states like California, the standard mileage rate is likely to be a beneficial option for most drivers.
• Tolls & Parking: While Louisiana doesn't have extensive toll road networks, any tolls incurred during deliveries are deductible. Parking fees directly related to 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 washes, phone mounts, dash cams, and insulated hot bags used specifically for Amazon Flex deliveries are deductible.

Key Warning: You cannot deduct both the standard mileage rate and actual car expenses (like gas, oil changes, repairs, and insurance) in the same tax 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, Amazon and other gig platforms do not withhold these taxes from your earnings. Therefore, it’s your responsibility to calculate and pay this tax, typically through estimated tax payments made quarterly to the IRS.