Postmates Couriers: How to Handle 1099-K Statements After the Uber Merge

Understand how Postmates earnings flow through Uber, why deposits split between tips and bonuses and what it means for taxes, estimates, and mileage deductions.

Independent contractors managing self-employed taxes should stay proactive about independent contractor deductions and year-round recordkeeping.

💡 Set aside 25% of every gig payout for self-employed taxes so independent contractor deductions cover quarterly payments.

Why It Matters for Self-Employed Taxes

Uber absorbed Postmates and shifted reporting under 1099-K forms. Many couriers still use legacy data and need a system to reconcile mixed statements.

Key Earnings & Expense Buckets

Track legacy Postmates branded gear you still use so you can deduct replacements when they wear out.
Flag any outstanding customer issue payouts that appear as adjustments on the Uber statement.
Separate bicycle or scooter maintenance from car expenses if you split modes.

Weekly Workflow

Download earnings from the Uber Driver portal monthly and label former Postmates routes for clarity.
Verify that promotions and referrals from legacy accounts landed correctly in the unified dashboard.
Store screenshots of old Postmates invoices in case you are audited on prior year carryovers.

Tools & Next Steps

A reconciliation spreadsheet that lists Uber and former Postmates deposits side by side.
Cloud storage for legacy contracts, background checks, and bonus terms from the Postmates era.
A hybrid mileage log covering both bike and car use for accurate depreciation or standard rate comparisons.

Treat your historical Postmates data with care and you will never have to backtrack when the IRS asks for support.

How do I track mileage for gig work in 2025?

Use IRS-approved mileage logs or apps like Everlance to document date, distance, and purpose for every self-employed trip.

Can I deduct equipment or vehicle lease payments?

Yes, deduct the portion tied to independent contractor work; keep receipts and lease statements for 1099 tax audits.

When should I pay quarterly estimated taxes?

Send payments by April, June, September, and January to cover self-employed taxes and avoid IRS penalties.

What records should independent contractors keep?

Maintain income statements, mileage reports, receipts, and bank deposits to support deductions and 1099 filings.

How can I reduce surprise tax bills as a freelancer?

Estimate your independent contractor deductions monthly, set aside 25-30% of income, and automate transfers to a tax savings account.