How Do I Get My 1099 from Doordash?

Learn step-by-step how to get your 1099 from Doordash quickly and easily. This guide explains the process in simple terms for dashers.

Getting your 1099 form from Doordash can seem like a mystery sometimes—but don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know in plain, simple language, so even if you’re new to taxes or just dashing for fun, you’ll be tax-ready in no time.

Understanding Your 1099 Form

Before diving into the how-to, let’s chat about what a 1099 form actually is. Think of the 1099 as a special report card for your earnings as a DoorDash dasher. It tells you, and the IRS, how much money you made if you earned $600 or more during the tax year. Since DoorDash treats you as an independent contractor—not as an employee—your taxes aren’t automatically taken out of your paycheck. That means you’re responsible for keeping track of your earnings and filing them correctly.

What Does the 1099 Form Include?

• Earnings: Your base pay, tips, bonuses, and any extra pay you received.
• Reporting: It gets sent to both you and the IRS so that you can file your taxes accurately.
• Threshold: If you earn less than $600 in a year, you won’t receive a 1099, but you still need to report your income.

For more details on tax forms, you can check the IRS official website for clear guidelines on what each form means.

How to Access Your 1099 from Doordash

Now that you know what a 1099 is, let’s look at how you actually get it. DoorDash partners with Stripe Express to send out these forms. You have two options for receiving your 1099:

1. Electronic Delivery: You’ll get an email from Stripe with a link to view and download your 1099 online.
2. Mail Delivery: If you don’t opt for electronic delivery or miss the email, your form will be mailed to the address on file.

Most dashers prefer the electronic route because it’s faster and easier. But whichever method you choose, the key steps remain similar.

How Do I Set Up for Electronic Delivery?

• Check Your Email: Look for an email from Stripe with a subject like “Confirm your tax information with DoorDash.” (Tip: If you can’t find it, check your spam or junk folder—emails sometimes sneak in there!)
• Create a Stripe Express Account: Follow the instructions in the email to set up your account. Once you do, you can opt into paperless delivery, which means your 1099 will be available online.
• Confirm Your Information: Make sure your name, address, and tax ID (like your Social Security number) are correct. This is super important so that your 1099 reflects your true earnings.

For more detailed help on setting up your account, visit the DoorDash Help Center or Stripe Express.

Step-by-Step Guide to Retrieving Your 1099 Form

Let’s break it down into a step-by-step process that you can follow easily—even if you’re not a tax expert! Step 1: Log Into Your DoorDash Account Start by opening the DoorDash app or website and logging into your account. Look for a section usually labeled “Earnings” or “Tax Documents.” This is where you’ll find any tax forms that have been made available. Step 2: Check for the Stripe Email Once you’re logged in, check your email inbox (and your spam folder!) for an email from Stripe Express. The email should invite you to create or log into your Stripe account for accessing your 1099 form. Personal note: I once missed this email because my spam filter was too strict. It’s a good idea to whitelist emails from Stripe so you never miss an important message again. Step 3: Set Up Your Stripe Express Account Click the Link: Use the link in the email to sign up for a Stripe Express account. Enter Your Details: Make sure you fill in all the required information (like your name, address, and tax ID). Opt-In for E-Delivery: Confirm that you want to receive your 1099 electronically. This step is crucial because it speeds up the process. Step 4: Download Your 1099 Form After you’ve set up your Stripe account and opted into e-delivery, your 1099 form should be available by January 31 of the following tax year. Simply log into your Stripe account, navigate to the tax documents section, and download the form. Fun fact: Most dashers report that this process takes only a few minutes once everything is set up. Step 5: Save and Print Make sure to save a digital copy of your 1099 form on your computer or cloud storage. It’s also a good idea to print a hard copy and keep it in your records. Trust me, having both versions can save you headaches later on

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a clear process, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are a few common issues and how to handle them: Issue 1: I Didn’t Receive the Email from Stripe Double-Check Your Email Folders: Sometimes, the email might have landed in your spam or junk folder. Verify Your Email Address: Make sure the email associated with your DoorDash account is correct. If you recently changed your email, you might need to update your account. Contact Support: If you still can’t find the email, reach out to DoorDash support. They can help verify your details or resend the email. Tip: A quick phone call to DoorDash support at (855) 973-1040 or using their online support form can often resolve the issue quickly. Issue 2: My 1099 Form Contains Incorrect Information Sometimes errors happen. If you notice that your earnings or personal details are incorrect on the 1099: Log Into Stripe Express: There is usually an option to edit your information. Follow the instructions provided to correct any errors. Contact DoorDash Support: If you can’t fix the issue through Stripe, contact DoorDash support directly to get assistance. Issue 3: I Prefer a Paper Copy Instead of an Electronic Copy Not everyone likes digital forms! If you choose not to opt into paperless delivery: Check Your Mailing Address: Ensure that the address on your DoorDash account is up to date. Wait for Delivery: Paper copies are usually mailed by January 31 and may take up to 10 business days to arrive. Contact Support if Delayed: If you don’t receive your paper copy within the expected timeframe, contact DoorDash support.

Tips for Filing Taxes as a DoorDash Dasher

Filing taxes as an independent contractor like a DoorDash dasher can feel overwhelming, but here are some friendly tips to help you manage the process: Keep Good Records Track Your Earnings: Use the DoorDash app to monitor your weekly or monthly earnings. Make a habit of saving screenshots or downloading statements. Record Expenses: If you’re using your car for deliveries, keep track of mileage, fuel, parking fees, and maintenance costs. There are many apps available that can help you track these expenses easily. Separate Business and Personal Expenses: If possible, use a separate bank account or credit card for business expenses. This makes it easier when you’re filing taxes. Use Tax Software or a Professional Tax Software: Programs like TurboTax or H&R Block are user-friendly and can guide you through the process step-by-step. These tools are designed to help independent contractors claim all their eligible deductions. Professional Help: If your tax situation is complex, it might be worth consulting a tax professional. They can help ensure that everything is filed correctly and may even help you find additional deductions. Make Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments As an independent contractor, you’re responsible for paying taxes throughout the year instead of having them automatically deducted from your paycheck. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes, you should make quarterly estimated tax payments. Here’s a quick reference table for the deadlines: Payment Period Estimated Tax Payment Due Date January 1 – March 31 April 15 April 1 – May 31 June 15 June 1 – August 31 September 15 September 1 – December 31 January 15 (next year) This helps you avoid any penalties or interest charges from the IRS. Stay Informed on Tax Law Changes Tax laws can change from year to year. It’s a good idea to check out resources like the IRS website or follow reputable tax blogs. This way, you’re always up to date on any new requirements or changes that might affect you. Learn from Other Dashers Sometimes the best advice comes from others who have been in your shoes. Joining online communities, like the Unofficial DoorDash Community on Reddit, can offer helpful tips and shared experiences about filing taxes and getting your 1099 form. Personal anecdote: I once chatted with a fellow dasher who said, “I almost missed my 1099 because I didn’t check my spam folder! Now I always set a reminder every January.” Little stories like these remind us that a small oversight can lead to bigger issues if we’re not careful.

A Closer Look at the Gig Economy and Taxes

Working as a DoorDash dasher means you’re part of the gig economy—a system that gives you flexibility but also a bit more responsibility when it comes to taxes. Unlike traditional employees who receive a W-2 form and have taxes automatically deducted from their pay, independent contractors must manage their own tax payments. This means keeping good records, making quarterly payments, and sometimes even paying a bit more because you’re covering both the employer and employee portions of FICA taxes.

Why It’s Different for Gig Workers

Self-Employment Tax: As a dasher, you pay a self-employment tax of 15.3% on your earnings (covering Social Security and Medicare). This is because you don’t have an employer to share the cost with. No Withholding: There’s no automatic tax withholding from your pay, so you need to plan ahead and set aside money for your tax bill. Deductible Expenses: On the plus side, you can deduct many business expenses—from mileage to phone bills—which can lower your overall tax liability.

Real-World Scenarios: What If Things Go Wrong?

Even with the best planning, sometimes things don’t go as expected. Here are a few scenarios and what you can do if you run into trouble: Scenario 1: You Didn’t Receive Your 1099 Form Imagine you’re eagerly preparing your taxes, but you never see that crucial email from Stripe. What do you do? Step 1: Double-check your spam/junk folder. Step 2: Verify that your DoorDash account has the correct email address. Step 3: Contact DoorDash support directly. Sometimes a quick call or chat can clear up the confusion. Step 4: If all else fails, you can still file your taxes using your earnings information from the DoorDash app. Remember, the IRS already receives a copy of your 1099, so if you have your numbers right, you’re in good shape. Scenario 2: Incorrect Information on Your 1099 What if the 1099 you download shows the wrong earnings or personal details? Don’t panic! Fix It Online: Log into your Stripe Express account and look for an option to correct errors. This is usually a straightforward process. Reach Out for Help: If the issue can’t be resolved online, contact DoorDash support. They are there to help you get it right. Scenario 3: Missed Quarterly Payments Let’s say you forget to make one of your quarterly tax payments. This can happen, especially if you’re busy dashing around. Here’s what to do: Don’t Ignore It: The IRS might send a notice, but it’s better to address it as soon as you realize the mistake. Calculate the Payment: Figure out how much you owe, including any penalties or interest. Set Up a Payment Plan: If the amount is too high to pay all at once, you can contact the IRS to set up a payment plan.

Tips to Make the Process Smoother

Here are some practical tips that can make managing your tax responsibilities a little less stressful:

1. Set Reminders

Mark your calendar with important dates—not just for when you need to file your taxes, but also for quarterly payments and checking your email for that Stripe message. A digital calendar on your phone can be a lifesaver.

2. Use Simple Tools

There are plenty of apps designed to help independent contractors track earnings and expenses. Some popular ones include:

• QuickBooks Self-Employed: Great for tracking mileage and expenses.
• Strides: Helps you set reminders for quarterly tax payments.
• TurboTax: For a user-friendly tax filing experience.

3. Keep a Separate Account

If possible, maintain a separate bank account or credit card exclusively for your DoorDash earnings and expenses. This way, you won’t mix personal expenses with business ones, and it makes tax time much easier.

4. Learn as You Go

Tax laws can change, and what worked last year might not be the best strategy this year. Follow reliable sources like the IRS website or subscribe to newsletters from reputable tax professionals. Learning a little every year can save you a lot of stress in the long run.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If you’re ever confused or overwhelmed, consider talking to a tax professional. It might cost a little upfront, but it can save you money (and headaches) later. Plus, many tax services now offer affordable options for gig workers.

Personal reflection: I remember when I first started dashing, I felt completely lost when it came to filing taxes. One friendly tax expert helped me understand every step, and now I even enjoy the process a bit because I know I’m saving money by claiming every deduction I can.

The Importance of Timely Tax Filing

Filing your taxes on time isn’t just about following the law—it can also help you avoid penalties and get your refund faster if you’re owed one. Here’s why timeliness matters:

• Avoiding Penalties: Late payments can result in interest charges and fines from the IRS. Trust me, those fees add up!
• Getting Your Refund Sooner: If you’re owed money, filing early means you can get your refund faster.
• Staying Organized: Keeping up with deadlines helps you maintain good records and avoid last-minute scrambles.

For a detailed rundown of deadlines and payment tips, visit IRS Tax Deadlines.

A Look at Deductions: Lowering Your Tax Bill

One of the best parts of being an independent contractor is the ability to deduct expenses from your income. This can significantly lower your tax bill. Here are some common deductions for DoorDash drivers:

Vehicle Expenses

Since your car is your main tool for dashing, many expenses related to it can be deducted. These include:

• Mileage: You can use the standard mileage rate (which changes each year) or calculate actual expenses.
• Fuel Costs: Gas is a big one if you’re driving long distances.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Oil changes, tire rotations, and other upkeep.
• Parking Fees and Tolls: Every little bit helps when you add it up.

Other Business Expenses

• Cell Phone Bills: Your phone is essential for getting orders and navigating, so a portion of your phone bill can be deducted.
• Delivery Bags and Coolers: These are necessary to keep food at the right temperature.
• Apps and Software: Any tools you use to track mileage or manage your business.
• Self-Employment Tax: While it might seem counterintuitive, a portion of your self-employment tax can be deducted on your income tax return.

Remember, you only deduct the portion of these expenses that is used for business. For example, if you use your car 60% of the time for DoorDash, you can only deduct 60% of your car expenses.

For more information on deductions, check out this helpful guide on Tax Deductions for Gig Workers.

Planning Ahead: Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments

As mentioned earlier, because DoorDash dashers are independent contractors, taxes aren’t withheld from your paychecks. This means you must make quarterly estimated tax payments. Here’s a quick refresher on the schedule:

Payment PeriodPayment Due DateJanuary 1 – March 31April 15April 1 – May 31June 15June 1 – August 31September 15September 1 – December 31January 15 (of the following year)

Making these payments on time is crucial. Not only does it help you avoid penalties, but it also spreads your tax burden throughout the year rather than leaving you with one big payment at tax time.

Tip: Consider setting up an automatic payment schedule with your bank or using an app that reminds you when it’s time to pay your quarterly taxes. This way, you won’t forget and end up with an unexpected tax bill.

Real-Life Stories from Fellow Dashers

Sometimes hearing real stories from other dashers can be really reassuring. Here are a few anecdotes that might help you feel more confident about the process:

• Sarah’s Story: Sarah, a full-time dasher from Ohio, once forgot to check her spam folder and almost missed her Stripe email. After a quick call to DoorDash support, she was back on track and now always sets a reminder every January.
• Mike’s Experience: Mike had an issue with incorrect information on his 1099 form. He logged into his Stripe account, updated his details, and had his form corrected within 24 hours. Now he always double-checks his information as soon as the form is available.
• Lila’s Lesson: Lila started dashing as a side hustle and didn’t think she’d need to worry about taxes. When tax season came, she learned that even if you don’t receive a 1099 because you earned less than $600, you still need to report your income. Her advice? Keep track of everything from the start!

These stories show that while the process can be a bit confusing at first, a little preparation and organization can go a long way.

FAQ

Q1: How do I get my 1099 from Doordash if I never received an email from Stripe?

A: First, check your spam or junk folder for an email from Stripe. If it’s not there, verify that your DoorDash account has the correct email address and contact DoorDash support for help. Remember, your 1099 may still arrive by mail if you opted out of electronic delivery.

Q2: What should I do if there’s incorrect information on my 1099 form?

A: Log into your Stripe Express account to see if you can edit the information. If not, contact DoorDash support directly to have the error corrected. It’s important to have accurate information on your tax forms to avoid issues with the IRS.

Q3: I didn’t receive a 1099 because I earned less than $600—do I still need to report my income?

A: Yes, even if you don’t receive a 1099 form, you are still required to report all income earned from DoorDash on your tax return. The IRS expects you to report every dollar earned.

Conclusion

In summary, getting your 1099 from Doordash doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience. First, understand that the 1099 is essential for reporting your earnings, and it comes either electronically via Stripe or by mail. Next, follow the step-by-step guide to log into your account, check your email (don’t forget the spam folder!), and set up your Stripe Express account to download your form. If you run into any issues, troubleshooting tips such as verifying your email address and contacting support are your best friends. Remember to keep good records, track your expenses, and plan ahead with quarterly estimated tax payments. Filing your taxes on time helps you avoid penalties and even get a refund faster if you’re owed one. And finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help or learn from others—there’s a whole community of dashers out there sharing their experiences. Have you ever had a hiccup with your tax forms? Let me know your story in the comments below!

Whether you’re new to DoorDash or have been dashing for years, staying organized and informed is key. By following this guide and using the tools and tips provided, you can make sure you get your 1099 from Doordash without a hitch and file your taxes confidently. If you have any questions or need extra help, drop a comment or check out more resources on the DoorDash Help Center and the IRS website. Happy dashing and happy filing!