7 Tips for Navigating 2025 Taxes as an Influencer

Being an influencer in 2025 is all about creativity, connection, and … taxes. Yes, taxes are an unavoidable part of running your content creation empire. 

Whether you’re getting your glow up from brand deals, affiliate links, or TikTok Shop, it’s essential to know how to handle your finances come tax season. Here are the top tips we have to help you manage.

1. All Income Is Taxable

First things first: any income you make as an influencer is taxable. This includes payments from sponsorships, affiliate programs, AdSense revenue, digital product sales, and even tips from followers. The IRS sees you as self-employed, which means you’re responsible for reporting every penny you earn — even if it’s in crypto or goods rather than straight cash.

For 2025, platforms will issue 1099 forms if they pay you $600 or more. Payment processors may also issue 1099 forms if you sell products through them. But even if you don’t get a 1099, you’re still required to report your earnings. Keeping track of all income streams is critical.

2. You’re Your Own Boss (and Taxpayer)

As an influencer, you’re classified as self-employed. Being your own boss is amazing, but it also means you’ll need to pay 100% of your self-employment taxes. (In a W2 job, your employer typically pays half of these payroll taxes.) Self-employment taxes cover Social Security and Medicare and total 15.3% of your net earnings on top of regular federal and state income taxes. 

3. Deductions Are Your Best Friend

The good news? Being self-employed comes with opportunities for tax deductions. Deductions help reduce your taxable income, which means less money owed to the IRS.

Here are some common deductions for influencers:

• Tech and Supplies: Cameras, tripods, lighting, editing software, and even your laptop, if you use it for work.
• Home Office: If you have a dedicated space for filming, editing, or managing your content, you can deduct a portion of your rent, utilities, and internet.
• Travel: Flights, hotels, and meals related to work trips or events.
• Wardrobe and Props: Outfits or props used exclusively for content creation.
• Professional Services: Fees for hiring a lawyer, virtual assistant, or marketing team. FYI: your monthly tax and bookkeeping fee for Cookie Finance would be a deduction too!

To claim these deductions, make sure you’re keeping detailed records and receipts. Using an expense-tracking app or spreadsheet can make this process painless. (We’ve got a free expense tracker you can download and use.)

4. Save for Taxes All Year

Unlike a regular 9-to-5 job, no one is withholding taxes from your influencer income. It’s up to you to set aside money throughout the year to cover your tax bill. A good rule of thumb is to save 25-30% of your income for federal and state taxes.

 If you owe more than $1,000 in taxes as an influencer this year, we recommend making quarterly estimated payments. Paying quarterly helps you avoid penalties and keeps you from facing a massive tax bill in April.

5. State and Local Taxes Matter

Don’t forget about state and local taxes! Depending on where you live, you might need to file additional tax returns. Some states even have local taxes for self-employed individuals. Make sure you’re aware of your state’s requirements to avoid any surprises.

6. Sales Tax for Merch

If you’re selling physical merchandise — like branded hoodies or planners — you may be responsible for collecting and remitting sales tax. Sales tax laws vary by state, so be sure to check what applies to you. Many e-commerce platforms automate this process, so look at what your platform offers when you choose how to manage your sales. 

7. Organize Your Finances

The secret to smooth tax filing as an influencer? Staying organized. Open a separate bank account for your influencer income and expenses and update your records regularly.

The Bottom Line

2025 taxes as an influencer don’t have to be scary. By understanding your responsibilities, keeping great records, and working with professionals when needed, you can tackle tax season like a pro. So keep creating amazing content and remember, being prepared for taxes as an influencer is just another way to invest in your success. Need help with that prep? Book a call with us to see how we can work together.