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The Economics of OnlyFans‑Style Platforms & Used Garment Sales: Earnings & Tax Realities
Vicky Parry
10th Sep 2025
Journalist and personal finance editor at MoneyMagpie Vicky Parry, who specialises in side hustles, digital income streams and the evolving creator economy is here to explain the real opportunities — and responsibilities — behind OnlyFans-style platforms and used garment sales in 2025.
Key takeaway: If you earn over £1,000 a year from side hustles, you must declare it to HMRC.
What Matters This Week
- Ofcom fined OnlyFans operator Fenix for failed age checks — regulators are watching closer than ever.
- HMRC is targeting niche marketplace earnings in 2025–26.
- Used garment sales (like worn knickers) are gaining traction as part of the creator economy.
Platform Types & Income Streams
| Platform Type | Examples | Main Income Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription content | OnlyFans, Fansly, AdmireMe.VIP | Subscriptions, tips, PPV |
| Adult video/chat | ManyVids, SextPanther | Paid calls, video chats |
| Used garments | Sofia Gray, All Things Worn, Snifffr | One-off sales of worn items |
1. Selling Used Knickers & Worn Items
✅ Legal in the UK if: both parties are 18+, no in-person meetings take place, and no bodily fluids are included.
Earnings by Seller Level
- Beginner: £100–£300/month
- Intermediate: £500–£1,500/month
- Top sellers: £2,000+ monthly (~£25,000/year possible)
Allowable Expenses
- Packaging & shipping
- Platform fees
- Photography/editing tools
- Laundry or prep costs
2. OnlyFans & Similar Platforms
| Creator Level | Monthly Earnings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | £100–£300 | Small subscriber base |
| Intermediate | £1,000–£5,000 | Steady engagement |
| Top creators | £20,000+ (sometimes six figures) | Large, loyal fanbase |
OnlyFans takes a 20% commission. Earnings are paid gross, so it’s up to you to set aside money for tax.
3. UK Tax Responsibilities (2025–26)
Registration & Filing
- Register for Self-Assessment if income exceeds £1,000/year.
- ️ Register by 5 October after tax year end.
- ️ File return by 31 January.
Income Tax Bands
- £0–£12,570: 0% (Personal Allowance)
- £12,571–£50,270: 20% (Basic Rate)
- £50,271–£125,140: 40% (Higher Rate)
- £125,141+: 45% (Additional Rate)
National Insurance Contributions
- Class 2 NICs: ~£3.45/week if profits exceed £6,725
- Class 4 NICs: 9% on £12,570–£50,270; 2% above
VAT
Threshold is £90,000/year. Most won’t hit it, but keep an eye on growth.
4. Penalties for Non-Compliance
⚠️ Warning: HMRC can fine £100 for a missed return, add daily penalties, and audit years of undeclared income.
5. Tips for Staying Compliant
- Save 20–35% of income for tax & NICs
- Track expenses carefully
- Use a separate bank account for side-hustle income
- ️ File on time (5 Oct registration / 31 Jan returns)
- Consider a limited company if earning £50k+
After-Tax Estimates
| Annual Earnings | Approx. Tax/NICs | Recommended Savings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| £10,000 | Minimal | £2,000–£3,500 | Report income |
| £30,000 | £6,000–£7,500 | £6,000–£10,500 | Self-Assessment required |
| £80,000 | £25,000+ | £16,000–£28,000 | Higher rate tax + VAT possible |
| £100,000+ | £35,000+ | £20,000–£35,000+ | Consider limited company |
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re selling content or used garments, these platforms can be lucrative. But HMRC is watching closely. Stay compliant, track expenses, and file correctly so you keep more of your hard-earned money.
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