Do YouTubers and TikTok Creators Need to Pay Tax in the UK?
With more and more people earning money online, one of the most common questions is:
“Do YouTubers and TikTok creators have to pay tax in the UK?”
The short answer is yes – once you start earning above a certain amount, HMRC treats your content as a business. Here’s everything you need to know.
Do YouTubers and TikTokers Pay Tax in the UK?
If you earn more than £1,000 in self-employed income in a tax year, you must register with HMRC and complete a Self-Assessment tax return.
This applies whether your income comes from:
- YouTube AdSense revenue
- TikTok Creator Fund payments
- Brand deals and sponsorships
- Affiliate links (e.g. Amazon)
- Patreon, Ko-fi, or other subscriptions
- Merch and product sales
👉 Even if it’s “just a side hustle,” HMRC still expects you to report it.
When Do You Need to Register?
- If you’re new to self-employment, you must register for Self-Assessment by 5 October following the end of the tax year.
- Tax years run from 6 April to 5 April.
- Returns must be filed online by 31 January.
Missing these deadlines can result in fines and penalties.
How Is Creator Income Taxed?
As a creator, you’ll usually be classed as self-employed. This means you’ll pay:
- Income Tax – based on your total earnings (minus expenses).
- Class 2 & Class 4 National Insurance – if your profits are above HMRC thresholds.
The tax rates depend on your total income, including any PAYE job you may have alongside your creator work.
Can YouTubers and TikTok Creators Claim Expenses?
Yes ✅ — like any self-employed worker, creators can deduct allowable expenses to reduce their tax bill.
Common examples include:
- Cameras, phones, lighting, microphones
- Editing software and design apps
- Home office costs (a portion of rent, internet, utilities)
- Travel to events, shoots, or collaborations
- Website and marketing expenses
Keeping accurate records is key to maximising your tax savings.
Example: A YouTuber’s Tax
- AdSense & sponsorship income: £20,000
- Allowable expenses: £5,000
- Taxable profit: £15,000
This £15,000 is what HMRC will use to calculate your tax and National Insurance.
Avoiding HMRC Problems
Many new creators get caught out by:
- Not registering on time
- Forgetting to save money for tax
- Missing deadlines
- Failing to declare all income streams
The best way to avoid HMRC fines is to stay organised and plan ahead.
How BAA Group Can Help Creators
At BAA Group, we specialise in working with content creators, YouTubers, and influencers across the UK.
We’ll help you with:
- Registering for Self-Assessment
- Managing your bookkeeping
- Claiming all the expenses you’re entitled to
- Filing your tax return accurately and on time
- Advising if/when you should set up a limited company
✅ Final Thoughts
So, do YouTubers and TikTok creators pay tax in the UK? Absolutely. Once you’re earning more than £1,000, HMRC expects you to file a Self-Assessment tax return.
👉 Need help with your taxes as a creator? Contact BAA Group today for a free consultation and let us handle the numbers while you grow your audience.
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