About Rover and 1099 Income
Rover is the largest pet care marketplace in the US, connecting pet owners with sitters, walkers, and boarders. Rover service providers are independent contractors.
Rover dog walkers drive a lot in dense urban environments. If you walk multiple dogs in the same neighborhood, you can deduct mileage to your first client and between all clients. Rover sitters who board dogs at home should consult a CPA about the home expense deduction to ensure it's structured correctly.
What Tax Form Does Rover Send?
Rover issues 1099-K (for sitters/walkers earning over $5,000 via Rover Payments). As an independent contractor, you are responsible for reporting this income on Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) attached to your federal Form 1040. You are also responsible for paying self-employment tax (15.3%) on your net earnings.
Top Tax Deductions for Rover Workers
Reducing your taxable income through legitimate deductions is one of the most effective ways to lower your tax bill:
- Pet care supplies purchased for client animals (treats, waste bags, leashes)
- Rover service fee (20% platform cut)
- Pet first aid certification courses
- Business liability insurance for pet care
- Vehicle mileage for dog walks and drop-in visits
- Home insurance adjustment for home boarding
- Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction — up to 20% of net business income for eligible freelancers
- Health insurance premiums if you're self-employed with no other employer coverage
- Retirement contributions (SEP-IRA contributions up to $69,000 or Solo 401k)
Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments
As a Rover independent contractor, no taxes are withheld from your earnings. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in federal taxes for the year, you must make quarterly estimated payments to the IRS using Form 1040-ES. The 2026 payment deadlines are April 15, June 16, September 15, and January 15, 2027. Use the calculator above to estimate your exact quarterly amount.