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Instacart Shopper Taxes: What Full-Service Shoppers Owe in 2026
The short answer: full-service Instacart shoppers are independent contractors, so no taxes are withheld. You owe 15.3% self-employment tax on your profit plus income tax. Deduct business miles at 72.5¢ and qualified tips, and set aside about 15–25% of each payout.
Instacart tax calculator
Contractor or employee?
Instacart has had two kinds of shoppers. Full-service shoppers, who shop and deliver through the Shopper app, are independent contractors and handle their own taxes. In-store shoppers have been employees who get a W-2 with taxes withheld. This guide is for full-service shoppers.
Your Instacart tax forms
Instacart reports contractor earnings on a 1099 form when you meet the federal threshold, and some states require forms at lower amounts. Report all your earnings, including batch pay, bonuses and tips, whether or not a form arrives (more on 1099-K rules).
What shoppers can deduct
- Miles from store to customer, between batches and back to a busy area, at 72.5¢ each.
- Tips: app-based delivery work is covered by the final tips rules, so shoppers who deliver can generally deduct qualified tips, up to $25,000. Confirm with your tax software or a tax pro.
- Insulated bags, coolers and carts you use for orders.
- The business share of your phone and plan, plus parking and tolls.
See how much you keep per hour after car costs with the real hourly pay calculator.
Quarterly payments
If you expect to owe $1,000 or more for the year, pay estimated taxes four times a year:
| Income earned | Estimated payment due |
|---|---|
| Jan 1 – Mar 31, 2026 | April 15, 2026 |
| Apr 1 – May 31, 2026 | June 15, 2026 |
| Jun 1 – Aug 31, 2026 | September 15, 2026 |
| Sep 1 – Dec 31, 2026 | January 15, 2027 |
For the full picture, including filing steps and common mistakes, see the complete guide to gig worker taxes.
FAQ
Do Instacart shoppers pay taxes?
Yes. Full-service shoppers are independent contractors and pay self-employment tax and income tax on their profit. In-store employee shoppers have taxes withheld.
How much should Instacart shoppers save for taxes?
Many save 15–25% of each payout. Use the calculator on this page with your own numbers.
Can Instacart shoppers deduct mileage?
Yes. Business miles driven while shopping and delivering can be deducted at the 2026 rate of 72.5¢ per mile.
Sources: IRS Gig Economy Tax Center · IRS self-employment tax · IRS 2026 mileage rate · Federal Register: qualified tips final rules · CPA Practice Advisor: 1099 thresholds · Taxpayer Advocate Service 2026 tax dates. General information for planning, not tax, legal or financial advice. Rules have exceptions; check with a tax professional for your situation.
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