Platform and Gig Workers: These Taxpayers Almost Always Need a Schedule C

By Dr. Gwennetta Wright, Tax Coach

When it comes to gig and platform workers, most of them do not realize one important fact—they almost always need to file a Schedule C.

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Whether they are driving for Uber, delivering for DoorDash, selling on Etsy, running a YouTube channel, or freelancing on Upwork, they are considered self-employed by the IRS. That means their income is business income, and it needs to be reported that way.

If a client receives a 1099-NEC or 1099-K, or even if they only made cash or app-based income, it is a red flag to the IRS if they do not report it on a Schedule C. Filing it as other income or trying to skip it altogether is asking for trouble.

A Schedule C allows your client to not only report their income properly, but also claim legitimate business expenses. That includes mileage, supplies, advertising, phone bills, software subscriptions, and more. Without it, they pay taxes on the full amount they earned, with no deductions.

As a tax professional, it is your job to educate your gig clients. The creator economy is growing fast. Make sure you know how to guide them the right way.

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