OnlyFans Reports to IRS? Here Are the Facts

If you're making money on OnlyFans, you've probably wondered: does OnlyFans report to the IRS? The short answer is yes. If you're a U.S.-based creator or you earn money from U.S. fans, your income is subject to taxes, and OnlyFans issues tax forms accordingly. Let's break down what that means for you, how to prepare, and how to avoid trouble when tax season hits.

Does OnlyFans Report Your Income to the IRS?

Yes. OnlyFans is legally required to report your earnings if you're a U.S. taxpayer or you earn enough from U.S. subscribers to trigger reporting thresholds. As a platform, OnlyFans uses third-party payment processors like Paxum or OF Payments, and these providers issue the necessary IRS forms.

If you earned at least $600 in a year through OnlyFans, expect to receive a 1099-NEC or 1099-K form depending on the payment processor used. This means your income is being reported to the IRS, and you are expected to file taxes accordingly.

For creators outside the U.S., tax treaties and local tax laws may apply. But U.S. earnings are still tracked, and you may be required to submit a W-8BEN form to clarify your tax residency status. Learn more about W-9s and W-8BENs in our OnlyFans W9 Form Guide.

What Forms Do You Get from OnlyFans?

Creators in the U.S. typically receive one of the following:

• 1099-NEC: If you are paid directly by OnlyFans or through U.S.-based payment processors.

• 1099-K: If you use a third-party payment processor and hit the reporting threshold (over $600 in many states, or over $20,000 and 200 transactions in others).

These forms show your gross income. That means the full amount paid to you before fees, expenses, or OnlyFans’ cut. This often shocks creators who didn’t realize they’d owe taxes on the full amount.

Need help figuring out how to reduce your tax bill? Check our guide on OnlyFans tax write-offs.

Can You Get in Trouble for Not Reporting OnlyFans Income?

Absolutely. If the IRS receives a 1099 form showing you earned money from OnlyFans, but you don’t include it on your return, it triggers red flags. Penalties can include interest, fines, and in extreme cases, audits.

Some creators believe that OnlyFans income is under-the-radar. That may have worked years ago, but today, digital platforms are under increased scrutiny. The IRS uses automated systems to track inconsistencies.

If you’re nervous about back taxes or unreported income, you’re not alone. Talk to a tax advisor and get things in order before it snowballs. You can also get help from our agency — PhoeniX Creators — if you're feeling overwhelmed managing your creator business.

What If You're Outside the U.S.?

Even if you live outside the United States, you’re not automatically off the hook. If you earn money from U.S. subscribers or use payment processors that operate in the U.S., your income may still be reported to the IRS. That’s where forms like the W-8BEN come in.

This form tells OnlyFans (and its payment partners) that you’re not a U.S. tax resident, helping you avoid unnecessary U.S. tax withholding. But you still need to report income in your home country. Not sure how? Our blog post on how to hide OnlyFans on taxes clears up common misconceptions — and why honesty is better than risking fines.

Do You Need to Pay Taxes on OnlyFans Income?

Yes. OnlyFans creators are considered self-employed. That means you owe income tax and self-employment tax on your earnings.

Even if you don’t get a 1099 form, you are still required to report and pay taxes on your income. Many creators make the mistake of assuming that if there’s no form, there’s no tax. That’s wrong, and it can come back to bite you.

You’ll want to keep detailed records of your income and expenses. Use software, spreadsheets, or even a notebook. Just don’t rely on memory.

You can find our full breakdown in The Ultimate Guide to OnlyFans and Taxes.

How to Keep Track of Your Earnings and Avoid Surprises

Tax prep isn’t fun, but it’s way better than an audit. Here’s how to stay organized:

• Keep monthly income records: Don’t wait for the 1099.

• Track your expenses: Camera gear, outfits, software, and even your phone bill might be deductible.

• Use a separate bank account: This keeps business and personal funds apart.

• Work with a tax pro: Especially one familiar with content creators.

If you’re unsure what counts as a legitimate business expense, check out our post on OnlyFans tax write-offs.

What About OnlyFans’ Cut? Can You Write That Off?

Good news: Yes. The percentage OnlyFans takes from your earnings (typically 20%) is considered a business expense. While the IRS sees your gross income, you only pay tax on net income after deductions.

So, if you made $50,000 and OnlyFans took $10,000, that $10,000 is deductible. The same goes for any other platforms or fees you pay as part of your business.

We explain more in this blog: Can You Write Off the OnlyFans Cut in Your Taxes?.

Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Legal, and Stay Profitable

The IRS doesn’t care if you’re a full-time creator, a part-time side hustler, or just testing the waters. If you make money, you have to report it. Period.

That doesn’t mean you need to panic — it just means you need to get organized. Track what you earn, track what you spend, and plan ahead for taxes. The most successful creators treat OnlyFans like a business, and taxes are part of that deal.

Need support? We’ve helped dozens of creators scale, streamline, and sort their financials. If you’re growing and need real help — reach out to us here.