DoorDash Dasher Taxes in Wyoming - 2026 Guide

Updated for 2026 (Filing 2025 Taxes)

Tax Essentials for DoorDash Dashers in Wyoming

Delivering for DoorDash across the wide-open landscapes of Wyoming offers flexibility, but it also comes with tax responsibilities. As an independent contractor, understanding these obligations is crucial for a smooth tax season.

The IRS requires all DoorDash Dashers to report their earnings as self-employment income on Schedule C (Profit or Loss From Business) when filing federal taxes. Earnings over $400 necessitate the payment of self-employment taxes, covering both Social Security and Medicare contributions, which are not automatically withheld from your DoorDash payouts.

How Wyoming Handles Gig Worker Taxes

Wyoming stands out as one of the most tax-friendly states for independent contractors, notably lacking a state income tax. This means Dashers won't face a state income tax return requirement based solely on their DoorDash earnings. However, this does not exempt you from federal income tax or self-employment tax obligations. The absence of state income tax can be particularly beneficial for Dashers who enjoy the freedom of the gig economy while maximizing their earnings. Wyoming’s economy, heavily reliant on industries like tourism and energy, often sees a fluctuating workforce, making gig work like DoorDash a vital source of income for many residents. While Wyoming doesn’t tax income, it’s important to remember that federal tax laws still apply, and accurate record-keeping is essential. Furthermore, if you operate as a business entity (like an LLC), there may be other state-level filing requirements, even without income tax. For comprehensive information on Wyoming business regulations, please visit the Wyoming Secretary of State’s website: Wyoming Secretary of State.

Top Tax Deductions for Wyoming 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 Wyoming’s vast distances and often rural delivery areas, maximizing this deduction can significantly reduce your tax liability.
• Tolls & Parking: While Wyoming doesn’t have extensive toll roads, any parking fees incurred directly while making deliveries are deductible. Keep receipts!
• Phone & Data Plan: You can deduct the percentage of your phone and data plan that is used for DoorDash deliveries. If you use your phone 75% for DoorDash, you can deduct 75% of the bill.
• Vehicle-Related Costs: Expenses like car washes (to maintain a professional appearance), phone mounts, insulated food bags, and dash cams are all potentially deductible as business expenses.

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, totaling 15.3%, covers both Social Security and Medicare taxes. Unlike traditional employment where these taxes are withheld from your paycheck, as a DoorDash Dasher, you are responsible for paying both the employer and employee portions. This is why accurate income tracking and estimated tax payments throughout the year are so important to avoid penalties.