As an accountant specialising in OnlyFans creators, I’ve seen firsthand how the rise of subscription-based platforms has transformed the financial landscape for digital content creators. While OnlyFans remains a powerhouse, many creators are diversifying their income by branching out to similar platforms. This expansion can significantly boost earnings, but it also introduces  VAT complexities that can catch even the savviest creators off guard. If you’re an OnlyFans creator working across multiple platforms, understanding UK VAT rules—and how they differ from platform to platform—is critical to staying compliant and maximising your income.
The Multi-Platform Challenge
Imagine you’re also earning from Fansly or Patreon etc alongside OnlyFans. Unlike OnlyFans, these platforms don’t have the same VAT framework and they are often based outside the UK.
A specialist accountant will already know the VAT treatment for the majority of these platforms so they don’t have to struggle to work out what to do and there’s no risk they will get it wrong.
Why General Accountants Struggle
I’ve spoken to countless creators who’ve worked with general accountants—well-meaning professionals who understand VAT in traditional contexts but falter when it comes to digital platforms. They might assume all platforms operate like OnlyFans, missing the nuances of Fansly or Patreon. Or they might overlook deductible expenses unique to creators that could offset your VAT liability. Worse, they could misadvise you on when to register, leading to penalties from HMRC for late registration or incorrect filings.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Go It Alone
The VAT rules for OnlyFans creators working on multiple platforms are undeniably complex. What works for one platform might not apply to another, and the stakes—compliance, penalties, and lost earnings—are high. As an accountant specialising in this niche, my mission is to take this burden off your shoulders. You focus on creating the content your fans love; I’ll handle the numbers.