The basics
As a pet sitter or dog walker on Rover (“sitter”), you are considered by the IRS to be running your own business through the Rover platform. This means that you are responsible for filing taxes on your Rover earnings each year.
We know filing taxes can be confusing, and we’re here to provide basic information and resources to help you navigate the process. Rover cannot offer tax advice. If you have specific questions, need tax advice, or are unsure about your unique situation, we recommend reaching out to a tax professional.
Important update: Lower 1099-K threshold deferred for 1 year
On November 21, 2023, the IRS announced that for tax year 2023, those eligible to receive a Form 1099-K will remain at the current threshold of more than 200 transactions and over $20,000 in processed payments. The IRS also announced a planned interim threshold of $5,000 in processed payments for tax year 2024, before eventually implementing a $600 threshold. Those who are eligible for a 1099-K under the current threshold will be provided a 1099-K Summary from Rover.
1099 Tax forms: who receives them?
As a result of the new tax regulations from the IRS, all sitters who had more than $5,000 in processed payments in 2024 will receive a Form 1099-K.
Things you should know
- Although you may not meet the IRS’s federal eligibility requirements, you may still receive a 1099-K as your state may have set their own requirements. Those states can be found here.
- If you meet the threshold you’re required to receive this form—however, the information it contains might be a bit confusing as it does not list your actual (net) earnings through Rover. We know this may seem complicated, and we’re here to help you navigate it.
- Rover will provide a 1099-K summary that will be available in your Rover account in January. This will state your actual (net) earnings plus the gross total and what makes up the difference to help you file your taxes accurately.
Got tax questions?
We partnered with a trusted tax partner on this comprehensive PDF guide made just for sitters on Rover.
In it, you’ll find what you need to know and materials you’ll need to have in order to successfully file taxes for your earnings through Rover.
FAQ
Q: I enrolled in paperless delivery but I might want to change that. How can I do that?
A: If you selected “Enroll in paperless delivery” on the pop-up window, you are currently opted-in to receive your 1099-K electronically (if you’re eligible) for the current tax season and any year after that you’re a sitter on Rover. You can change this preference by reaching out to our support team via the Help Center. This request must happen before the end of the relevant tax year in order for it to be processed ahead of your forms being issued.
Q: Why doesn’t the amount on my 1099-K match my earnings?
A: Form 1099-K is required to document gross payment amounts processed on your behalf for the services you provide, which includes things you didn’t receive money for like canceled bookings, Rover service fees, and even sales tax. It does not reflect your actual earnings. This Help Center article explains it in more detail.
Q: Where can I find my actual (net) earnings through Rover?
A: You can view your actual or net earnings that were paid into your bank account by year in your Rover account. Find out how in this Help Center article.
Q: How will I receive my tax forms?
A: Your Form 1099-K will be available to access digitally in your Rover account or via mail in January, depending on if you enrolled in paperless delivery.
Q: I have a question. Who can I ask?
A: For questions related to your specific tax situation, please contact a tax professional as Rover cannot provide tax advice. For general questions and troubleshooting or questions related to receiving your 1099-K, take a look at our Help Center or get in touch with Rover Support.
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