WhatsApp-based ITR filing in 7+ Indian languages drives financial inclusion for gig workers as India’s gig economy heads toward 23.5M workers by 2030
Bangalore, September 17, 2025: Zepto, India’s fastest-growing quick-commerce platform, has partnered with ClearTax, the country’s largest tax-filing platform, to simplify income tax filing for its delivery workforce. The initiative has already helped delivery partners unlock more than ₹1.5 crore in refunds, underscoring its potential to improve financial security for gig workers nationwide.
India’s gig economy — projected to grow from 7.7 million workers in 2023 to 23.5 million by 2030 (NITI Aayog, BCG) — remains largely underserved in terms of tax compliance. Nearly 70% of gig workers do not file annual tax returns, often missing out on eligible refunds. Analysts estimate that regular filing by even 30% of workers could contribute an additional ₹10,000–₹15,000 crore annually to direct tax collections.
Through this partnership, 49% of Zepto’s delivery partners have filed their ITRs with ClearTax this year, with average refunds ranging between ₹7,000 and ₹8,000 — roughly equivalent to a week’s salary in a segment where monthly earnings typically stand at ₹18,000–₹25,000.
ClearTax’s WhatsApp ITR Filing enables workers to complete the process in a few minutes through a chat-based interface, available in over seven Indian languages. The AI-powered platform pre-fills returns, guides users on deductions, and files electronically with instant confirmation. To ensure accessibility, the program also provides telephonic support, offline helpdesks at Zepto dark stores, and awareness webinars.
> “Our delivery partners are the backbone of Zepto. This initiative with ClearTax helps them access financial benefits easily and in a language they understand. It’s the first step in our larger mission of financial inclusion for gig workers,” said Vikas Sharma, Chief Operating Officer, Zepto.
> “Thousands of gig workers are losing out on refunds due to limited awareness. With Zepto, we’re bridging this gap and empowering workers to file their ITRs through something as simple as a WhatsApp chat,” added Archit Gupta, Founder & CEO, ClearTax.
Delivery partners have already seen tangible benefits. Ravi, a Zepto delivery executive in Bangalore, shared, “I filed my ITR in Kannada in just 10 minutes while waiting for my next order. I received a refund of ₹7,800 — money I didn’t know I was entitled to.”
The initiative prioritises data security and privacy, with ClearTax operating as a GST Suvidha Provider (GSP), SOC 2 compliant, and ISO 27001 certified. All data is encrypted via SSL-certified pathways and undergoes regular audits and VAPT testing.
With rollout across Zepto’s nationwide network, the program is set to expand financial literacy and access to refunds for thousands more gig workers in India.
About Zepto
Founded in 2021 by Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra, Zepto has transformed rapid commerce in India with 10-minute delivery across 70+ cities. Offering over 45,000 products — from groceries to electronics, beauty, and fashion — Zepto combines cutting-edge logistics with convenience. Its Zepto Café extends this promise with a curated menu of 200+ fresh items.
