DoorDash Dasher Taxes in New Hampshire - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for DoorDash Dashers in New Hampshire

Delivering for DoorDash across the Granite State, from the White Mountains to the Seacoast, offers flexibility, but also comes with tax responsibilities. As a DoorDash driver, you're considered an independent contractor, meaning you're responsible for tracking your earnings and paying all applicable taxes.

The IRS requires independent contractors to report income earned through Form 1099-NEC on Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) with your Form 1040. Crucially, this income is also subject to self-employment tax, covering both Social Security and Medicare, which DoorDash does not withhold. Proper record-keeping throughout the year is essential to accurately calculate your tax liability and maximize potential deductions.

How New Hampshire Handles Gig Worker Taxes

New Hampshire is unique in that it does not have a broad-based income tax. This means Dashers won't owe state income tax on their earnings. However, this does not exempt you from federal income tax or self-employment tax obligations. The lack of state income tax makes diligent federal tax planning even more important. While New Hampshire doesn't tax wages or salaries, it does levy taxes on interest and dividends. DoorDash earnings, classified as self-employment income, fall under federal jurisdiction. Many New Hampshire residents appreciate the state's fiscal conservatism, and the absence of a state income tax is a significant factor in the state's economic appeal. This also means there are no state-specific forms or deductions related to gig work beyond what is required at the federal level. It's important to remember that even without state income tax, accurate reporting to the IRS is mandatory, and penalties for underpayment can be substantial. New Hampshire's Department of Revenue Administration provides resources for understanding federal tax obligations, even in the absence of state income tax: New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.

Top Tax Deductions for New Hampshire Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The most popular and often most beneficial deduction. For the 2025 tax year, the standard mileage rate is 70 cents per mile. Given New Hampshire's relatively stable gas prices compared to some states, the standard mileage rate is likely to be a very advantageous option for most Dashers.
• Tolls & Parking: New Hampshire doesn't have extensive toll roads, but any tolls incurred while actively dashing are deductible. Parking fees directly related to deliveries are also deductible.
• Phone & Data Plan: If you use your personal phone for DoorDash, you can deduct the percentage of your monthly bill that corresponds to business use. Keep a log of the time spent dashing versus personal use to justify the deduction.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car washes, phone mounts, insulated food bags, and dash cams used specifically for DoorDash 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

As an independent contractor, you're responsible for paying self-employment tax, which covers both Social Security and Medicare. This combined tax rate is 15.3% on net earnings over $400. DoorDash and other gig platforms do not withhold these taxes, so it’s crucial to set aside funds throughout the year to cover this liability. You may be able to deduct one-half of your self-employment tax from your gross income.