Will app drivers pay 26.5% tax? See what changes in your real gain

A wave of misinformation recently circulated on social networks, stating that ride-hailing drivers would be taxed at 26.5% as of 2026. The publication, which went viral and accumulated almost 1 million views, generated apprehension in the category. However, experts and the Federal Revenue Service clarify that the information distorts the reality of the new tax legislation: the transition will be gradual and with significantly lower rates.

The misconception lies in the confusion about the operation of the Dual VAT — a system that unifies federal taxes (CBS) and state/municipal taxes (IBS). Contrary to what the rumor suggests, 2026 will act as a test year for the adaptation of the system. During this period, the charge will be symbolic, totaling only 1% on the operation (0.9% of CBS and 0.1% of IBS), far from the ceiling projected for the future.

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Exemptions and impact on real income

The tax reform established protection mechanisms for lower-income professionals. Drivers classified as “nanoentrepreneurs”, with annual revenues of up to R$ 40.5 thousand, will be totally exempt from the new taxes. For those who earn up to R$ 162 thousand, the rule provides that the tax is levied on a reduced calculation basis of only 25% of gross revenue, minimizing the impact on net income.

For those registered as Individual Microentrepreneurs (MEI), with a ceiling of R$ 81 thousand per year, the fixed rate regime (between 1% and 1.3%) remains unchanged, preserving the predictability of costs.

Market data reinforce the need for fiscal clarity to maintain the activity. According to a survey by the GigU platform, the profit margin varies according to the region.

In São Paulo, a driver who works 60 hours a week earns an average profit of R$ 4,252.24 after fuel and maintenance expenses. In Rio de Janeiro, the average is R$ 3,304.93 (for 54 hours), while in Belo Horizonte the value is around R$ 3,554.58.