Why a post for ShiftKey workers matters to truckers
A viral Facebook post offering “tax guidance for ShiftKey workers” — and clearing up confusion about when the IRS will open tax season — is a timely reminder for anyone earning on a platform or as an independent contractor. Owner-operators and many leased-on drivers are taxed the same way as those healthcare pros: you’re 1099, you file Schedule C, and you’re responsible for self-employment tax and quarterly estimates. Here’s what to know as filing season gets underway and how to avoid costly mistakes.
First things first: the 2026 filing season dates
The IRS will begin accepting 2025 individual returns on Monday, January 26, 2026; Tax Day is Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Many tax software providers may “hold” returns earlier, but the IRS won’t start processing until Jan. 26. Earlier in 2025, a public comment by an IRS leader suggested a mid‑February opening, but the agency later clarified and set the late‑January start now in effect.
If you’re a 1099 driver, here’s the paperwork to expect
- 1099‑NEC: If a broker, carrier, or platform paid you $600 or more for services, they generally must issue a Form 1099‑NEC. You’ll report that income on Schedule C and calculate self‑employment tax on Schedule SE.
- 1099‑K: If you’re paid through payment apps or merchant processors, you may also receive a 1099‑K. Even if you don’t get a form, you must report all business income.
- No form? Still taxable: Bank deposits, Zelle, cash — if it’s business income, it belongs on your return. Keep clean books and a separate business account.
Quarterly estimated taxes: avoid the penalty
Because no one is withholding for you, use Form 1040‑ES and the IRS “safe harbor” rules to stay penalty‑free. As a general rule, pay in at least 90% of your current‑year tax or 100% of last year’s tax (110% if last year’s adjusted gross income exceeded certain thresholds). For most sole proprietors, the four estimated due dates fall in April, June, September, and the following January.
Deductions that matter in trucking
- Vehicle costs: Choose either the standard mileage rate or actual expenses (fuel, maintenance, insurance, lease/interest, depreciation). Keep odometer logs and receipts; if you switch methods, know the limitations.
- Meals on the road: If you operate under Department of Transportation hours‑of‑service rules, you can generally deduct 80% of away‑from‑home business meals (per diem or actual). That higher DOT percentage is a valuable benefit for long‑haul drivers.
- Other common write‑offs: Tolls, parking, ELD and software subscriptions, cell/data plans (business portion), safety gear, truck washing, permits, and a home‑office deduction if you meet the “regular and exclusive use” test. See IRS Publication 463 for definitions, documentation, and limits.
For small fleets: your 1099 obligations
If you paid an independent contractor for services in your business, you may need to file Form 1099‑NEC. Gather W‑9s early, confirm tax IDs, and remember that electronic filing is required once you issue a certain number of information returns. Penalties apply for late or incorrect forms.
Platform lessons from ShiftKey workers
ShiftKey’s workforce operates as independent contractors, and even the company has highlighted tools to help contractors spot deductions and file accurately. The takeaway for truckers using freight platforms is the same: plan year‑round, set aside a tax reserve from every settlement, and use software that tags expenses correctly.
Quick pre‑file checklist
- Reconcile every 1099‑NEC/1099‑K to your books; report all income, even with no form.
- Total deductible expenses with receipts and logs; decide mileage vs. actuals before filing.
- Run a 1040‑ES projection for 2026 so you start Q1 on time.
- Fleets: File required 1099‑NECs to contractors by the deadline.
Editor’s note: We attempted to review the specific Facebook post referenced but could not access the private group; the filing‑date clarification here relies on subsequent reporting and official IRS materials.
Sources Consulted: IRS (Newsroom; Publications 463 and 505; 1040‑ES; Gig Economy guidance); Forbes (Kelly Phillips Erb tax coverage); Journal of Accountancy; ShiftKey newsroom.
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This article was prepared exclusively for truckstopinsider.com. For professional tax advice, consult a qualified professional.
