DoorDash introduces relief payments for drivers as the Iran-US war drives up gas prices

As the conflict between Iran and the U.S. leads to soaring gas prices, DoorDash is taking action to assist its drivers in both the U.S. and Canada. The company announced a temporary relief initiative aimed at alleviating the financial strain on Dashers who depend on their vehicles for deliveries. This program, which will be available until April 26, offers eligible drivers weekly payments based on their mileage. Drivers who travel at least 125 miles per week can qualify for payments starting at $5, translating into potential savings of $1 to $1.50 per gallon of gas. This support is particularly vital for those operating in suburban and rural regions where longer distances are common. Furthermore, drivers using DoorDash’s Crimson debit card will be eligible for an additional 10% cash back on fuel purchases, potentially saving them up to $1.90 per gallon. For delivery drivers, fuel expenses represent one of the largest costs. Unlike traditional employees, gig workers must manage their own expenses, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. A Human Rights Watch survey conducted in May 2025 revealed that gig workers in Texas were spending an average of $100 weekly on fuel, equating to $2.76 for every hour worked. At that time, gas prices hovered around $3 per gallon. The current situation, however, is more severe, with the national average for regular gasoline now just under $3.96 per gallon, over $1 higher than a month ago, and prices in some areas nearing $4. As gas prices continue to rise, delivery drivers face escalating weekly fuel costs without any corresponding increase in pay from the platforms they work for. Additionally, fluctuations in delivery demand due to heightened living expenses make it difficult for drivers to count on increased orders to balance their costs. This combination results in diminished profits per delivery, forcing many to work longer hours for less pay. Consequently, gig work, which once offered flexibility, is becoming financially untenable for some drivers, pushing them to cut back on hours or exit the industry altogether. DoorDash’s current gas rewards initiative mirrors a similar program launched in 2022 when gas prices spiked following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In that same year, other companies like Uber and GrubHub also introduced measures to support their drivers amid rising fuel costs. Whether other delivery services will adopt similar strategies this time remains to be seen.