Our Methodology
Every calculator on SideGigToolbox is built to answer one question honestly: what do you actually take home, after the costs most tools ignore? Here’s how we build and maintain them.
Where our numbers come from
Where a calculator relies on external figures — mileage rates, standard fee structures, tax thresholds — we pull from official, primary sources: the IRS, published platform fee schedules, and other verifiable references. We don’t estimate a rate when a real published one exists.
How we test them
Before a calculator goes live, we run its logic against real worked examples — actual pricing scenarios, hand-calculated checks, and published fee-schedule cases — not just numbers that look plausible. We pay particular attention to rounding on currency math and edge cases like zero-cost inputs or minimum thresholds, since that’s exactly where small errors like to hide.
How we keep them current
Figures like IRS mileage rates change annually, and platform fee structures shift without much notice. We review and update rate-dependent calculators on a regular schedule so a tool built in one year doesn’t quietly go stale the next.
What our calculators are — and aren’t
Every calculator produces an estimate based on the data you provide and the reference figures described above. They’re built to be as accurate as good data and careful math allow, but they’re not a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific situation. See our Disclaimer for the full picture.
Editorial independence
Our calculator logic and recommendations aren’t influenced by affiliate relationships. See our Affiliate Disclosure for how this site is monetized.
Found something off?
If a calculator’s numbers don’t look right, we want to know. Reach out through our Contact page or email hello@sidegigtoolbox.com.