Complete guide to every tax deduction Instacart workers can claim this year — with estimated savings and IRS form references.
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Top Instacart Shopper Tax Deductions for 2026
Instacart shoppers (full-service and in-store) are independent contractors and can deduct their business expenses. Here are the most valuable Instacart tax deductions:
Standard Mileage — $0.70/mile driven from store to customer delivery locations. Full-service shoppers who drive to stores and deliver can claim this.
Cell Phone & Data — You need data to shop and deliver. Deduct 60-80% of your phone plan.
Instacart Service Fees — Instacart's fee on each batch is 100% deductible.
Parking Fees — Parking costs while picking up orders at stores.
Phone Mount & Charger — Car accessories for navigation and deliveries.
Car Maintenance — If using actual expenses method: gas, oil changes, tires, repairs.
Instacart provides an earnings summary for tax purposes. Full-service shoppers have more deductions than in-store shoppers since they drive their own vehicles. In-store shoppers can still deduct work-related costs like non-slip shoes and uniforms. Use our free Instacart deduction finder for a personalized list.
Instacart Full-Service vs In-Store Shopper Deductions
Full-service shoppers (shop and deliver) can claim mileage from store to customer, vehicle expenses, and delivery-related costs. In-store shoppers (work in a single store) cannot claim vehicle mileage but can deduct work clothing, non-slip shoes, and any required equipment. Full-service shoppers generally have larger deduction totals due to vehicle expenses.
Instacart Deductions FAQ
No. Commuting from home to your first store is considered personal mileage and is not deductible. Only miles driven from the store to customer delivery locations and between stores count as business miles.
Yes. Instacart sends a 1099-NEC to shoppers who earn $600 or more in a calendar year. You are responsible for reporting all income, including tips, on your tax return.
If you use the standard mileage rate ($0.70/mile), car maintenance is already included and cannot be separately deducted. If you use the actual expense method, you can deduct a percentage of gas, oil changes, repairs, tires, and insurance based on business-use percentage.
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