If you're driving for Uber, Uber Eats, DiDi, Ola, or any other rideshare or delivery platform in New Zealand, you're technically self-employed. At 93 Accounting, we've filed tax returns for hundreds of drivers — and through our Uber Tax Clarity Review, we often perform a personalised audit of their previous returns. Again and again, we find that most drivers miss out on valuable deductions simply because they don't know what they can claim. The good news? You can legally claim business expenses to reduce how much tax you pay.
The problem? Most drivers miss out on valuable deductions — simply because they don't know what they can claim. Here are eight of the most commonly overlooked deductions (and yes, they can really add up).
1. Phone, Apps & Data Plans
Your mobile phone is your office. You use it to run the app, navigate, communicate with riders/customers, and track your trips. You can claim a portion of your mobile plan — including data — based on how much is used for work. If you’re using a dedicated phone for driving, you may be able to claim most or even all of it.
Don’t forget: if you pay for logbook apps, mileage trackers, or business-related tools, these also count as deductible software.
Tip: Keep records or an estimate of how much time you spend using your phone and related apps for driving-related tasks.
2. Home Office or Storage Use
If you use a part of your home for managing driving records, storing car supplies, or handling admin, you can claim a portion of your rent, power, internet, rates, and even interest on your mortgage. Even a small space like a desk or garage shelf can qualify.
3. Interest on Car Loans
If you purchased your vehicle with a loan, you can’t claim the full repayment — but the interest portion is deductible. This is often missed by new drivers.
4. Licensing & Certification Costs
Getting your Passenger Endorsement (P Endorsement), renewals, or paying for any required background checks or safety training can be claimed as business expenses.
5. In-Car Entertainment Subscriptions
Do you use Spotify, YouTube Premium, or another streaming service to improve the rider experience? A portion of these subscriptions may be tax-deductible. If they’re used during rides to entertain passengers, they count as a business expense — just apportion for personal use too.
Tip: Keep a log or note of how often you use the service while driving for work.
6. Accounting Fees
Yes — the cost of doing your taxes is tax-deductible. That includes hiring a tax agent or subscribing to an expense tracker if it's specifically for your driving income.
7. Health & Safety Supplies
Masks, hand sanitiser, gloves, and wipes — especially if used during passenger pickups or deliveries — can be claimed. These became common during COVID, but they're still valid if used for work.
8. Bank Fees & Transaction Charges
Many drivers use a separate bank account for Uber income or receive payments from overseas platforms. You can claim monthly account fees, transaction charges, or currency conversion fees as business expenses — as long as they relate to your driving income.
Tip: Scan your bank statements for any service charges or processing fees tied to your rideshare deposits.
Want to Make Sure You’re Claiming Everything?
At 93 Accounting, we go beyond the basics. Our Smart Expense Tracker scans your bank records to find deductions you didn’t even know you had. Then, an actual accountant reviews it and gives you personalised advice.
You focus on driving. We’ll handle the tax.
✅ One-off tax return or subscription available
✅ Unlimited support via WhatsApp hotline
✅ IRD representation, GST help & more
Learn more:
Comments