Reviewed by a Qualified Accountant
This content has been reviewed by our qualified chartered accountants. However, you should always check with a professional. If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Navigating the roads as an Uber driver presents its own set of challenges and rewards. Between the buzz of rapid pickups and the satisfaction of a well-rated drop-off, there’s little time left to ponder over the complexities of taxes and expenses. But, fear not, because we’re here to shift gears and steer you in the right direction.
We’ve provided accountancy services for Uber drivers for several years. In this guide, we unveil the 30 expenses that can help Uber drivers put the brakes on their tax bills, ensuring you keep more of your hard-earned cash. So, buckle up and prepare to accelerate your tax savings, leaving you more time to focus on what you do best — driving!
Car & Driving
🧽 Car Cleaning and Valeting
Costs associated with keeping the car clean for passengers, including professional valeting services.
⛽ Fuel
Expenses for petrol or diesel necessary for driving.
⏱️ Tire Inflator and Pressure Gauge
Your smartphone and associated accessories (e.g. mounts, charging cables etc.), but only if it’s solely for business use.
🔋 Portable Battery Jump Pack
Emergency equipment for battery-related issues, ensuring minimal downtime.
🔦 Torches and Flares
Safety equipment used in case of night-time breakdowns or emergencies.
💸 Vehicle & Public Liability Insurance
Required insurance coverages that protect against accidents and liabilities.
👨🔧 Roadside Assistance Plans
Subscription services that provide help in case of vehicle breakdowns.
🚗 Car Maintenance Costs
Regular and incidental repairs and maintenance to keep the vehicle in good working condition.
🛣️ Charges on High Congestion Areas / Motorways
Fees incurred when driving through toll zones or areas with congestion charges.
💰 Car Lease
Monthly leasing costs for drivers who do not own their vehicles outright.
🛰️ Sat Nav
Devices or subscriptions used to navigate and manage driving routes more efficiently.
🅿 Parking
Costs associated with parking, for example airport drop offs and pickups.
And more…
There’s plenty more car and driving related costs you could claim. Just follow the golden rule: a deduction is allowed for expenses incurred wholly and exclusively for the purpose of the trade.
Operational Costs
📱 Mobile Phone Cost
Purchase and operational costs of a smartphone used exclusively for Uber driving.
📴 Mobile Bill & Charges
Monthly charges related to the mobile service plan, including data used for navigation and communication.
🚕 Uber Commissions and Service Charges
Fees deducted by Uber as part of their ride-fare structure.
🌉 Toll Fees
Costs paid to access toll roads during trips.
📊 Accounting Fees
Professional fees paid for financial services like tax preparation and bookkeeping.
🏦 Bank Charges for Business Accounts
Maintenance fees for a business banking account.
📈 Interest on Bank Loans
Interest expenses on loans taken out for business purposes, such as purchasing a new vehicle.
🚕 Uber Application Costs
Expenses incurred during the initial setup and registration with Uber.
And more…
There’s plenty more Uber driver operational costs you could claim. Just follow the golden rule: a deduction is allowed for expenses incurred wholly and exclusively for the purpose of the trade.
Office & Miscellaneous
✒ Office Supplies
Essential supplies for maintaining business records and administrative tasks.
🧠 Cost of Training
Expenses related to acquiring or updating skills necessary for improving service quality, such as defensive driving courses.
🍬 Water & Treats for Passengers
Costs of refreshments offered to passengers, enhancing customer experience.
📣 Marketing & Advertising
Expenses incurred in promoting the driver’s services, including online ads and printed materials.
And more…
There’s plenty more Uber driver expenses you could claim. Always check with a tax professional if you aren’t sure.
