Max Rettig, Head of Global Public Policy at DoorDash, said in an interview that workers like Dashers should be included in the No Tax on Tips legislation. He cited fairness and the exclusion of millions of independent workers who rely on tips as part of their income.
"We're grateful to leaders in the House for including Dashers in the No Tax on Tips provision of H.R. 1," said Rettig. "While the passage of S. 129 demonstrates the overwhelming bipartisan support for No Tax on Tips, it does not currently include millions of Americans, like Dashers, who choose to be their own boss. Dashers recently sent more than 120,000 letters to lawmakers asking to be included in this legislation as a matter of basic fairness."
The "One Big Beautiful Bill," passed by the House on May 22, 2025, includes a provision to eliminate federal income taxes on tipped income. This measure is designed to increase take-home pay for approximately 4 million American workers who rely on tips, such as those in the hospitality and service industries. By removing the tax burden on tips, the bill aims to provide financial relief to these workers and stimulate economic growth by increasing consumer spending power. The legislation now awaits further action in the Senate.
According to the House GOP tax bill, a new above-the-line deduction would be created for tips received in occupations that traditionally accepted gratuities. Eligibility extends beyond W-2 employees to include independent contractors and self-employed individuals. Section 110101 of the legislation states that tips reported on Forms 1099-K, 1099-NEC, or manually reported on Form 4137 would qualify for the deduction if they are voluntary, non-negotiated, and earned in eligible occupations as determined by the Treasury. This provision marks a significant expansion of tax relief for app-based drivers, beauty professionals, and other gig workers who rely on customer tips for income.
DoorDash reports that its DashRoots advocacy network has mobilized nearly 40,000 Dashers to support the No Tax on Tips Act, generating over 120,000 letters to members of Congress. The campaign aims to ensure that independent workers, including app-based delivery drivers, are included in the bill’s federal tip tax exemption. DoorDash is leveraging its growing grassroots network to push for fair tax treatment and greater recognition of flexible workers in national policy.
Rettig serves as Vice President and Head of Global Public Policy at DoorDash. He leads teams focused on government relations, social impact, and regulatory strategy. A former U.S. State Department attorney and White House advisor, Rettig has over a decade of experience in public policy and legal affairs.
