Gig Guides

What is Gig Work?

Gig work has transformed how people earn a living. Instead of relying on traditional 9-to-5 jobs, more people than ever are turning to flexible, short-term work to earn money on their own schedule. Whether you’re delivering groceries, walking dogs, driving passengers, or freelancing online, you’re part of a growing movement reshaping the modern workforce.

This page will walk you through what gig work is, who it’s for, and how to get started with links to explore detailed guides based on the platforms you use.

The Definition of Gig Work

Gig work is any income-generating activity that happens outside of a traditional employer-employee relationship. Instead of receiving a steady paycheck and benefits from a company, gig workers earn money per task, job, or project. That’s where the term “gig” comes from; short for “engagement.”
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Commpon examples include:

• Driving for delivery apps like DoorDash, UberEats, or Spark
  
• Picking up freelance projects on Upwork or Fiverr
  
• Providing care services on Care.com or Rover
  
• Renting out space, gear, or creative products on Airbnb, Etsy, or Gumroad
  

Most gig work is done as an independent contractor. This means you’re in charge of your own schedule, tools, and taxes.

Who Is Gig Work For?

Gig work attracts people from all walks of life. Some use it as a full-time career, while others treat it as a side hustle to supplement their main income.

It might be a good fit if you:

• Want to work flexible hours
  
• Prefer being your own boss
  
• Are between jobs or need extra income
  
• Have a car, smartphone, or skill that others can pay for
  
• Enjoy variety in your work and day-to-day tasks
  

If you’re self-motivated and comfortable working independently, gig work can be a rewarding way to earn.

How Much Can You Make?

Earnings vary widely based on the type of gig, where you live, and how often you work.

• Delivery and rideshare drivers might earn $15 to $25 per hour, depending on tips and demand
  
• Freelancers can charge by the hour or project, with experienced professionals earning $50/hour or more
  
• Pet sitters, handymen, and caretakers may command premium rates in high-demand areas
  

Learn more: How Much Can You Make Doing Gig Work?

Do You Need Any Qualifications?

Some gigs are open to almost anyone, while others require specific tools, skills, or certifications. Most gig platforms require:

• A smartphone
  
• Proof of ID or background check
  
• A vehicle (for driving or delivery gigs)
  
• Age verification (typically 18 or older)
  
• Bank account for payouts
  

Explore our guide: What Are the Requirements to Be a Gig Worker?

How Do Taxes Work for Gig Workers?

As an independent worker, you’re responsible for handling your own taxes. This includes:

• Tracking your income from all platforms
  
• Recording business-related expenses like mileage and supplies
  
• Filing self-employment taxes, usually quarterly
  

Many gig workers receive 1099 tax forms, which report income from companies like Uber, DoorDash, or Instacart.

Explore our guide: Gig Worker Tax Guide

Can Gig Workers Claim Deductions?

Yes. If you use your car for deliveries, purchase supplies, or use part of your home for your gig, those expenses may be deductible.

Common tax deductions include:

• Mileage driven for business
  
• Phone and service costs
  
• Tolls, parking, or business insurance
  
• Equipment or supplies used for gigs
  

Explore our guide: Top Gig Worker Tax Deductions

What About Mileage?

If you drive for your gig work, whether you’re delivering, transporting passengers, or running errands, mileage is one of your biggest tax write-offs. The IRS allows you to deduct a set amount per business mile driven.

The easiest way to keep track? Use a mileage tracking app like Everlance to record your trips and separate work from personal.

Explore our guide: Gig Work Mileage Guide

What Kinds of Platforms Offer Gig Work?

You can earn as a driver, tasker, creative, or seller. Here are some examples:

• Delivery & Rideshare: DoorDash, Uber, Lyft, Spark, Instacart, Shipt
  
• Freelance & Creative: Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, Gumroad
  
• Care & Services: Rover, Wag!, Care.com, Taskrabbit
  
• Selling or Renting: Etsy, eBay, Airbnb, Turo, Poshmark
  

Looking for a specific platform? We’ve created tailored tax and pay guides for the top apps.

Explore all platform guides: Everlance Gig Work Hub

What’s the Future of Gig Work?

The gig economy is growing. In fact, over 60 million Americans have tried gig work and industry analysts predict that number will keep climbing.

As platforms expand and technology evolves, more people will be able to earn on their terms. At the same time, it’s becoming increasingly important for gig workers to understand their rights, taxes, and earning potential.

That’s why we built the Everlance Gig Guides: to help you navigate the gig economy with confidence.