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Taxes for Content Creators and Influencers: Your Essential Guide to HMRC Rules

  • Writer: Lizzie O
    Lizzie O
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

Let’s be real, being a content creator or influencer is exciting, but when it comes to taxes, things can feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry though, if you’re making money through your online hustle, I’m here to help you break down what you actually need to know about staying on HMRC’s good side.


An influencer doing their makeup in front of a ring light

So, What Is Trading Income?


Trading income is just a fancy way of saying “money you make from your content creation” This could include:

  • Payments for sponsored posts

  • Ad revenue from platforms like YouTube or TikTok

  • Affiliate marketing earnings

  • Even freebies and gifts from brands, as long as there’s an expectation for you to promote them


Basically, if you’re getting paid (in money or stuff) for doing what you do, HMRC wants to know about it.


The Magic Number: £1,000 Trading Allowance


Here’s the good news, if you make £1,000 or less from your hustle in a tax year, you don’t need to worry about paying tax on it. This is called the trading allowance.


But if you go over that amount, even by a little, you’ll need to report it to HMRC.


For example:

Let’s say you earn £1,300 from your content creation work this year. The first £1,000 is tax-free, but you’ll need to pay tax on the extra £300.


Keep an eye on your total earnings so you don’t get caught off guard!


Got a Job Already? Here's What You Need to Know


If you have a regular 9-to-5 job where you’re paid through PAYE, your employer handles your taxes for that job. But your side hustle? That’s all on you.


You’re responsible for telling HMRC about what you’re earning on the side. If you don’t, they’ll eventually find out and trust me, you don’t want that headache.


How to Get Started with Self Assessment


If you earn more than £1,000 from your content creation, you’ll need to register for Self Assessment. It sounds fancy, but it’s really just a way to report your income and pay taxes.


The deadline to register is 5 October after the end of the tax year. Set a reminder on your phone now (future-you will thank you).


Keep Those Receipts!

I know keeping records doesn’t sound like the most exciting part of being a content creator, but it’s super important. HMRC loves detailed records, and they’ll save you a ton of stress when it’s time to file your tax return.


What should you keep track of?

  • Payments for sponsored posts or ads

  • Freebies and gifts from brands (yes, they might be taxable)

  • Expenses like software, camera gear, or editing tools, these could be tax-deductible


The more organised you are, the easier your life will be when tax season rolls around.


What Happens If You Don’t Report Your Income?


Not reporting your earnings isn’t just risky, it’s a recipe for penalties. HMRC has ways to track undeclared income, so it’s always better to play by the rules. Procrastination might feel good now, but it could cost you big time later.


Need a Hand?


Let’s face it, taxes can be confusing, especially if it’s your first time dealing with them. That’s why getting help from a tax professional can make a world of difference. They’ll make sure you’re not overpaying, and they’ll help you figure out what you can claim as expenses.


If you’re making money as a content creator or influencer, taxes are just part of the game. Stay organised, know your numbers, and don’t be afraid to Contact Us for help. You’ve got this!


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