
Hey there, side-hustle enthusiasts! If you’ve ever considered dipping your toes into the spicy waters of OnlyFans-style platforms or even selling used garments, you’re not alone. These niche gigs are heating up in the UK, and personal finance guru Vicky Parry from MoneyMagpie is here to spill the tea on the real earning potential - and the tax responsibilities that come with it.
As we roll into 2025, subscription platforms like OnlyFans and Fansly, alongside marketplaces for used items like Sofia Gray, are becoming go-to income streams for many. But before you start counting your cash, remember: HMRC is keeping a close eye, and every penny from these digital hustles needs to be declared. Stick with us as we unpack the essentials!
Key takeaway? If your side hustle rakes in over £1,000 a year, it’s time to chat with HMRC. Let’s dive deeper into what’s trending and what you need to watch out for this year.
Things are getting serious in the creator economy, and regulators are stepping up their game. Ofcom recently slapped a fine on OnlyFans operator Fenix for inadequate age verification checks, proving that the industry is under a microscope. It’s a wake-up call for creators and platforms alike to tighten up their practices.
Meanwhile, HMRC is zeroing in on niche marketplace earnings for the 2025-26 tax year. Whether you’re selling content or something as unique as worn knickers, your income isn’t flying under the radar. Used garment sales, in particular, are gaining steam as a quirky yet profitable part of the creator economy.
Curious about the buzz? It’s clear that these side hustles aren’t just a fad - they’re a legit way to make bank, provided you play by the rules. Let’s break down the platforms and potential profits next.
Platforms like OnlyFans, Fansly, and AdmireMe.VIP are the heavy hitters in the subscription game. Creators earn through monthly subscriptions, tips, and pay-per-view content. It’s a sweet deal if you can build a fanbase, with top creators pulling in £20,000 or more monthly - sometimes even hitting six figures!
Beginners might start with £100-£300 a month, while intermediate creators with steady engagement can see £1,000-£5,000. Just a heads-up, though: OnlyFans takes a 20% cut, and earnings are paid gross, meaning you’ve got to stash some cash for taxes. Smart budgeting is key!
“The earning potential on platforms like OnlyFans can be life-changing, but creators must be proactive about setting aside funds for taxes to avoid a nasty surprise,” warns Vicky Parry.
For those comfy with a more personal touch, platforms like ManyVids and SextPanther offer paid video chats and calls. It’s a direct line to fans willing to pay for one-on-one interaction. The income here can vary widely based on your availability and audience.
These platforms cater to a specific niche, often overlapping with subscription content. They’re perfect for creators looking to diversify their income streams. Just remember, the same tax rules apply - no escaping HMRC’s watchful eye!
Now, let’s talk about a quirkier hustle: selling used garments on sites like Sofia Gray, All Things Worn, and Snifffr. Think worn knickers or socks - it’s a surprisingly lucrative market. Beginners can pocket £100-£300 monthly, while top sellers might hit £2,000 or more, potentially earning £25,000 a year.
It’s legal in the UK as long as both parties are over 18, no in-person meetups happen, and no bodily fluids are involved. You can even claim expenses like packaging, shipping, platform fees, and photography tools. Who knew laundry costs could be a business write-off?
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of taxes. If your side hustle income tops £1,000 a year, you’ve got to register for Self-Assessment with HMRC. Mark your calendar for October 5th after the tax year ends to register, and file your return by January 31st. Missing these dates? Not a good look.
Income tax bands are straightforward: nothing on the first £12,570 (your Personal Allowance), 20% up to £50,270, 40% up to £125,140, and a hefty 45% beyond that. National Insurance Contributions (NICs) kick in too, with Class 2 at about £3.45 a week if profits exceed £6,725, and Class 4 at 9% on profits between £12,570-£50,270, dropping to 2% after.
VAT might not apply to most creators since the threshold is £90,000 annually, but if your hustle explodes, keep an eye on it. Staying on top of these rules keeps the taxman off your back - and more money in your pocket.
Here’s a friendly warning: HMRC doesn’t mess around. Miss a tax return, and you’re looking at a £100 fine, plus daily penalties if you keep dragging your feet. They can even audit years of undeclared income, so playing hide-and-seek with your earnings is a risky game.
Non-compliance can turn a sweet side hustle into a financial headache. Better to be upfront and file correctly than deal with the stress of penalties later. Trust us, peace of mind is worth it!
Ready to make bank without breaking the rules? Start by saving 20-35% of your income for taxes and NICs - it’s a lifesaver when the bill comes due. Track every expense meticulously, from shipping costs to platform fees, as they can lower your taxable income.
Set up a separate bank account for your side-hustle earnings to keep things tidy, and always file on time (October 5th for registration, January 31st for returns). If you’re pulling in over £50,000, consider setting up a limited company for potential tax benefits. A little planning goes a long way!
After-tax estimates? If you’re earning £10,000 annually, save £2,000-£3,500; at £30,000, stash £6,000-£10,500; and for £80,000 or £100,000+, expect to set aside £16,000-£35,000 or more. Play it smart, and you’ll keep smiling all the way to the bank.
Whether you’re captivating fans on OnlyFans or selling unique items on niche marketplaces, the creator economy in 2025 is full of opportunity - and a dash of responsibility. These platforms can pad your wallet nicely, with some top earners making life-changing money. But don’t forget, HMRC is watching closer than ever.
Stay compliant, track every penny, and file on time to avoid any hiccups. With the right approach, you can keep more of your hard-earned cash and focus on growing your hustle. Got a spicy side gig story? Drop us a line - we’re all ears!
Here’s to making money and keeping it flirty yet legal in the creator world. Let’s keep the conversation going as this space evolves - who knows what 2026 will bring?