Tax Return Changes for Gig Workers and Creators | HelloBooks Gig workers may get fewer 1099s, can sometimes claim the tips deduction, and face full premium tax credit repayment from 2026. A CPA checklist.
Gig workers and creators receive income through apps and platforms, often with no form at the end of the year. Several changes affect them, some in their favour and one that can hurt.
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Platform 1099-K threshold
Over $20,000 and over 200 transactions
Applies: Tax years 2025 and 2026From IRS.gov · checked October 10, 2026
Delivery drivers and rideshare drivers in a listed occupation can deduct qualified tips, but only up to the net income of their gig business. Fewer workers will get a 1099-K because of the higher threshold.
From 2026, a worker with QBI of at least $1,000 gets a QBI deduction of at least $400. Gig workers who buy marketplace health coverage now repay the full excess advance premium credit if their income comes in higher than expected.
Give tips, fares or creator payments and platform fees their own accounts, and keep personal spending out of the business account. A simple monthly profit figure from the books lets you update quarterly estimates and the marketplace income estimate before they go wrong.
The plain-English summary for business owners
Schedule 1-A · qualified tips
Individuals · marketplace coverage
By client type · ecommerce sellers
General information for tax professionals, not advice on a specific return. Figures are from IRS.gov on the date shown; check the current IRS instructions before filing.
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