Are you considering becoming an Uber Eats delivery driver? One of the key considerations when deciding if a job is right for you is whether or not it pays enough to cover your costs. You’re probably wondering: Does Uber Eats pay gas expenses?
No, Uber Eats does not pay for gas expenses of their delivery drivers. Since the drivers are classified as independent contractors, they are considered as business owners and therefore responsible for all the costs related to their work, including gas.
Hence, the drivers need to factor in their gas expenses when calculating their earnings and determining if working for Uber Eats is financially viable for them.
Does Uber Eats Pay for Gas
Uber Eats drivers are independent contractors, meaning they are in essence their own small delivery business and must pay for all vehicle and fuel costs themselves.
This means that Uber Eats does not pay for drivers’ gas expenses, and drivers must factor in these costs when calculating their earnings.
A unique aspect of being an Uber Eats driver is that they are not compensated via a salary like an employee would be. Instead, they receive payment for each delivery they complete, making it a task-for-money setup. They have the liberty to accept or reject a given assignment and are compensated for it, regardless of the time it takes them to finish it.
Gas Expenses for Uber Eats Drivers
The amount of money that Uber Eats drivers spend on gas can vary depending on several factors, such as the distance traveled, the efficiency of the vehicle, and the cost of gas in their area. On average, Uber Eats drivers can expect to spend around $10-$20 on gas per hour worked, although this can vary widely depending on the factors mentioned above.
Uber Eats Gas Reimbursement Policy
Uber Eats does not have a gas reimbursement policy, and drivers are not compensated for their gas expenses. This is because Uber Eats considers its drivers to be independent contractors, rather than employees, and therefore does not provide benefits such as gas reimbursement.
What is the reason why Uber Eats does not pay for gas?
If you have never been an entrepreneur or freelancer, it might be puzzling to figure out the type of work relationship between you and Uber Eats when you do their deliveries. The truth is, Uber Eats drivers are self-employed individuals. Thus, it is beneficial to view yourself as having your own small business if you are an independent contractor.
Your gross revenue, which is the overall sum earned from each delivery, is the payout you receive. To determine what you can actually use, you must pay your expenses and the remaining money is your profit. In theory, this is the most essential because it is what you can utilize.
Tips To Lower Your Fuel Costs
As a former Uber Eats driver, I know firsthand how expensive gas prices can be. It can really hurt your bottom line, and in some cases, it might not even be worth it to do deliveries. But fear not, my fellow drivers! There are ways to reduce your gas expenses and save some money. Here are five strategies that you can use to keep your gas costs as low as possible:
1. Use Ebikes or Electric Scooters
The easiest way to reduce your gas expenses is to not use gas at all. That’s why I use an electric bike or scooter to do my deliveries. Not only does it save me money because I don’t have any fuel expenses, but it also gives me added health benefits since I’m able to get some exercise. Plus, I can move as fast as a car most of the time without having to worry about parking or gas prices. So, if you want to save money on gas, get yourself an electric bike or scooter. Trust me, it’s well worth it.
2. Use a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle
If you can’t make the move to an electric bike or scooter, then your next best bet is to use a fuel-efficient vehicle. You don’t want to be driving a gas-guzzling pickup truck or SUV when you’re doing deliveries. Instead, consider getting a hybrid vehicle like a Toyota Prius. It’s not that expensive compared to some cars, and you can get a solid used Prius at a very good price. Plus, you’ll save money on gas in the long run.
3. Track Your Miles
The IRS allows you to deduct the mileage you drive when you’re doing Uber Eats. So, it’s important to track your miles so you can deduct them from your revenue. This means you’ll be taxed on less money, and you’ll have a better idea of your actual profit for the day after expenses. I use Gridwise, which is an excellent free app that you can use to track your mileage. Trust me, it’s worth it.
4. Use Cashback Apps
Cashback apps are a great way to get some money back for the purchases you’re already making. There are a few apps that are geared specifically towards gas purchases, where you can earn cashback for the gas you’re buying. Two good apps you can use are Trunow and Upside. You can use both apps to earn a small amount of cashback whenever you buy gas. Every little bit helps, right?
5. Earn Points and Miles
Last but not least, take advantage of credit cards to earn points and miles. Even a basic 2% cashback card will at least get you something back for the purchases you’re already making. And if you want to get more advanced, it’s worth taking a deeper dive into credit card points and miles. I haven’t had to pay for a flight or hotel in over 5 years because I’m able to utilize points and miles for all my travel. But remember, only use credit cards if you’re responsible with them and never carry a balance. Otherwise, you’ll lose more than you gain.
Conclusion
When you work as an Uber Eats driver, you must cover the cost of gas out of your own pocket. It’s important to think of yourself as a business when you’re working and make sure that you’re bringing in enough income to cover the necessary expenses, such as fuel for your vehicle.
Though Uber Eats does not reimburse for fuel, you do not need to be constrained by gas prices. By employing the correct tactics, you can bring down or even do away with your fuel costs entirely.
