All income earned from gig work platforms like Uber, DoorDash, Skip the Dishes, and Instacart must be reported to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), even if you received no T4A slip or official tax form. The CRA considers this self-employment income, and you're required to report every dollar you earn from these platforms on your tax return. This applies whether you drive, deliver, shop, or provide services through the app, regardless of whether the income was paid via direct deposit, e-transfer, or digital wallet. Gig income includes more than just the base fare or delivery fee you receive. The CRA's definition is broad and covers: - Base earnings from completed trips, deliveries, or tasks - Tips and gratuities from customers (yes, even digital tips) - Bonuses, referral payments, and surge pricing boosts - Promotional earnings or signup incentives - Any payments for cancellations, wait times, or idle pay (if applicable) Platforms like Uber and DoorDash send their users annual earnings summaries, but these are often just a starting point. You should cross-check your own records to ensure accuracy, as platform reports sometimes contain delays or discrepancies.
Yes. Gig platforms are required to report your earnings to CRA, and you must report all self-employment income regardless of whether you receive a T4A or other official form. The CRA matches platform reports with your tax return.
You still need to report it. There is no minimum income threshold for self-employment reporting in Canada. Even small amounts of gig income must be declared on your tax return.
Yes. All tips, including those given in cash or through the app, are taxable self-employment income and must be reported to CRA. You should track these carefully throughout the year.
Yes, vehicle expenses like fuel, maintenance, and insurance can be deducted from your gig income if the vehicle is used for work. You can claim either actual expenses or use the simplified per-kilometer deduction method.
CRA uses data-matching to identify discrepancies. If your reported income is lower than the platform's report, CRA will likely contact you to reconcile the difference. Always keep detailed records to explain any gaps.