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Gig Economy Tax Cheatsheet

Essential Rules, Deductions, and Deadlines for 2026

General Rules

  • All Income is Taxable: Cash, crypto, and app payouts must be reported.
  • $400 Filing Threshold: If you earn more than $400 net, you MUST file.
  • 15.3% SE Tax Rate: Covers Social Security (12.4%) and Medicare (2.9%).

Important Caps

  • SS Wage Base: Approx. $176,100 (2025/26). Pay SS tax only up to this limit.
  • Medicare: Unlimited. 2.9% applies to all net earnings.
  • Additional Medicare: 0.9% for income over $200k (Single) / $250k (Married).

2026 Estimated Tax Deadlines

Q1 Data
April 15, 2026
Q2 Data
June 15, 2026
Q3 Data
Sept 15, 2026
Q4 Data
Jan 15, 2027

At-a-Glance Deductions

Expense Notes
Home Office $5/sqft (Simplified) or Actual Expenses %
Business Miles 72.5 cents per mile (2026 Rate)
Health Insurance Premiums are 100% deductible for self-employed
Supplies & Gear Computers, software, and tools used for work

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