As a specialist accountant based in the UK with years of experience helping content creators navigate their finances, I understand the unique challenges faced by OnlyFans creators. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your income to six figures, managing taxes and accounting can feel overwhelming. But getting it right not only keeps you compliant with HMRC but also helps you maximise your earnings and avoid costly penalties.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about accounting for OnlyFans creators in the UK, including tax obligations, allowable expenses, VAT, and practical tips to streamline your finances. If you’re searching for “OnlyFans tax advice UK” or “accountants for OnlyFans creators,” you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive in.
Why Accounting Matters for OnlyFans Creators
OnlyFans has revolutionised content creation, allowing UK-based creators to earn significant income from subscriptions, tips, and custom content. However, this income is taxable, and OnlyFans doesn’t withhold taxes for you – that’s your responsibility. Failing to declare earnings can lead to fines, interest charges, and even investigations from HMRC.
As an accountant for OnlyFans creators, I’ve seen how proper tax planning can save creators thousands. For instance, tracking expenses and structuring your business correctly (e.g., as a sole trader or limited company) can reduce your tax bill substantially.
Registering as Self-Employed with HMRC
If your OnlyFans earnings exceed £1,000 in a tax year (from 6 April to 5 April), you must register as self-employed with HMRC. This is straightforward and can be done online via the Government Gateway.

  • Steps to Register: Create an account on the HMRC website, provide your personal details, and select “self-employed” as your status. You’ll receive a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number.
  • Deadlines: Register by 5 October following the end of the tax year in which you started earning. For example, if you began in the 2025/26 tax year, register by 5 October 2026.
  • Tip: If your income is growing rapidly, consider setting up a limited company for potential tax efficiencies. I can guide you through this process to ensure it’s the right fit.

Failing to register can result in penalties, so don’t delay – compliance is key for peace of mind.

Income Tax and National Insurance for OnlyFans Earnings
Your OnlyFans income is treated as self-employment income, subject to Income Tax and National Insurance Contributions (NICs).

  • Income Tax Rates (2025/26 Tax Year):
    • Personal Allowance: £12,570 (tax-free).
    • Basic Rate: 20% on earnings between £12,571 and £50,270.
    • Higher Rate: 40% on £50,271 to £125,140.
    • Additional Rate: 45% above £125,140.
  • National Insurance:
    • Class 2 NICs: Voluntary from April 2024, but paying them can help qualify for state benefits like the pension.
    • Class 4 NICs: 6% on profits between £12,570 and £50,270, then 2% above that.

A good rule of thumb? Set aside 25-30% of your earnings for taxes. For example, if you earn £40,000 from OnlyFans after expenses, you might owe around £5,000 in Income Tax and £2,500 in NICs. Use HMRC’s online calculator for a precise estimate, or consult an accountant to optimise this.

Remember, international creators based in the UK must declare worldwide income, but double taxation agreements can provide relief.
VAT Considerations for OnlyFans Creators
If your taxable turnover (including OnlyFans earnings) exceeds £90,000 in a 12-month period, you must register for VAT. OnlyFans handles some VAT for EU customers, but UK creators are responsible for UK VAT compliance.

  • VAT Rate: 20% on most services.
  • Registration: Mandatory over the threshold; voluntary below if it benefits you (e.g., to reclaim VAT on expenses).
  • Filing: Quarterly VAT returns via Making Tax Digital (MTD)-compatible software.

Many creators overlook VAT, leading to unexpected bills. As your accountant, I can monitor your turnover and handle registrations to keep you compliant.

Claimable Expenses to Reduce Your Tax Bill
One of the best ways to lower your taxes is by deducting legitimate business expenses. As an OnlyFans creator, you can claim:

  • Equipment and Props: Cameras, lighting, costume clothing, or sets used for content.
  • Marketing Costs: Website hosting, social media ads, or management tools.
  • Home Office Expenses: A portion of rent, utilities, and internet if you work from home.
  • Travel: Trips for shoots or collaborations.
  • Professional Fees: Accountant fees, software subscriptions, or agency commissions.

Keep detailed records – receipts, invoices, and bank statements – to substantiate claims. I recommend using apps like Xero for easy tracking.

Bookkeeping Tips for OnlyFans Success
Good bookkeeping is the foundation of stress-free accounting. Here’s how to stay organised:

  1. Separate Accounts: Use a dedicated business bank account for OnlyFans payouts.
  2. Track Income: Download monthly statements from OnlyFans and categorise earnings.
  3. Monthly Reviews: Reconcile expenses and estimate taxes quarterly to avoid year-end surprises.
  4. Software Tools: Opt for cloud-based accounting software compatible with HMRC’s MTD requirements.

If this sounds time-consuming, outsourcing to a specialist accountant can free you up to focus on creating content.

Why Choose a Specialist Accountant for OnlyFans Creators?
Generic accountants might not understand the nuances of digital content creation, like handling multi-currency payments or maximising deductions for adult-oriented expenses. As a UK-based accountant for OnlyFans creators, I offer:

  • Discreet, judgment-free service.
  • Tailored tax planning to minimise liabilities.
  • Full support with self-assessments, VAT returns, and HMRC queries.
  • Fixed-fee packages

I’ve helped hundreds of creators save on taxes while scaling their businesses. Don’t risk DIY accounting – professional advice pays for itself.