Instacart Shopper Taxes in West Virginia - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for Instacart Shoppers in West Virginia

Navigating the Mountain State as an Instacart shopper offers flexibility, but it also brings tax responsibilities. As an independent contractor, earnings from Instacart are considered self-employment income, requiring careful attention to both federal and West Virginia tax regulations.

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, because no taxes are automatically withheld from your Instacart earnings, you’ll likely owe self-employment tax, covering both Social Security and Medicare contributions.

How West Virginia Handles Gig Worker Taxes

As a resident of West Virginia, you are required to file a state income tax return if your income exceeds the filing threshold. West Virginia utilizes a graduated income tax system, meaning the tax rate increases as your income rises. For the 2025 tax year, West Virginia’s income tax rates are expected to remain in effect, though it's always best to check for updates. The primary form for self-employed individuals to report income and calculate tax liability is Form WV-204, West Virginia Resident Income Tax Return. This form allows you to report your Schedule C profit and calculate your West Virginia income tax obligation. Remember to accurately report all income received from Instacart and any other self-employment activities. West Virginia also allows for itemized deductions, which may further reduce your taxable income. It’s crucial to keep detailed records of all income and expenses throughout the year to ensure accurate filing. The West Virginia State Tax Department provides comprehensive resources and guidance for taxpayers, including information on filing requirements, tax rates, and available deductions. You can find more information at the West Virginia Tax Division website: https://tax.wv.gov/. Failure to file and pay taxes on time can result in penalties and interest, so proactive tax planning is essential for West Virginia Instacart shoppers.

Top Tax Deductions for West Virginia Drivers

• Standard Mileage: The #1 deduction for most Instacart shoppers. The 2025 rate is 70 cents per mile. Given West Virginia’s rural landscape and potential for significant mileage between deliveries, especially in areas outside of cities like Charleston or Morgantown, the standard mileage rate is often the most advantageous method.
• Tolls & Parking: While West Virginia 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 washes to maintain a professional appearance, phone mounts for safe navigation, and insulated hot/cold bags used exclusively for deliveries are deductible.

Key Warning: You cannot deduct both the standard mileage rate and actual car expenses like gas 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 your employer withholds these taxes, as an Instacart shopper, you are responsible for paying both the employer and employee portions, totaling 15.3% on net earnings over $400. You’ll calculate this tax on Schedule SE (Self-Employment Tax) and include it with your Form 1040.