Can I deduct meals?

In most day to day situations for gig workers (Uber, Postmates, Instacart), meals are not tax deductible. 

However in special circumstances, meals are deductible if you meet one of these requirements:

1) you're driving out of town for business, and it would be unreasonable for you to provide food for yourself from home
2) you're sharing a meal with a potential referral or client
3) you drive for an abnormally long distance in which you’re unable to provide food for yourself due to an unexpected overnight stay

Stride Tip: Rideshare companies have referral programs that reward drivers with cash bonuses when their driver referrals sign up to drive with Uber/Lyft. Meals that you purchase while recruiting other drivers are also tax deductible! Similar to passenger goodies, only 50% of the cost for these items can be deducted.