OnlyFans Creators Beware: What to Do When HMRC Hits You with an Information Notice!

As a UK-based OnlyFans creator, you may receive an HMRC Information Notice, issued under Schedule 36 of the Finance Act 2008. These notices compel you—or third parties, like banks—to produce documents “reasonably required” to check your tax position

🧐 Why Now?

HMRC has ramped up its focus on the digital economy, including OnlyFans, using algorithms and automatic data-sharing from banks and platforms.

This means undeclared income—like tips or pay-per-view content—can quickly trigger scrutiny.

HMRC Information Notices: What They Are & Why They Matter to OnlyFans Creators

✅ What You Must Provide

Statutory records only

HMRC can legally demand only what’s required to verify tax on specific periods—like income declared on your Self Assessment

Timely and reasonable response

You have a 30-day window to appeal or request more time. HMRC often accommodates reasonable delays if you’re cooperative

⚠️ Red Flags: Don’t Overshare!

Let’s say HMRC launches an enquiry into 2023/24, but requests your OnlyFans earnings from 2018/19. If that year’s return was filed and HMRC is time-barred by the 4‑ to 6‑year discovery window, they can’t force you to hand it over—especially under Section 21, Schedule 36

Real-life example:

Creator filed returns back to 2018/19

HMRC dug into your bank and OnlyFans account for that period

You successfully refused, citing time-bar and protected status

HMRC withdrew the notice—ending the enquiry

🛡️ Your Defenses: Appeal & Push Back

Appeal within 30 days: Challenge any request not “reasonably required”

Invoke Section 21 protection: If HMRC’s asking outside their legal window, you can—and should—refuse.

Seek professional help: Onlytax specialises in digital creatives—get expert backup before responding or appealing.

👩‍🎓 Example: What to Hand Over (and What to Keep)

Requested by HMRC Should You Provide? Notes

2023 OnlyFans payment records ✅ Yes, if not time‑barred Relevant to current tax year

2019 OnlyFans earnings ❌ Likely no, if returns filed & time-barred Cite Section 21 protection

Tip receipts or digital wallet records ✅ Yes, if they show in declared income Must match your return

Unrelated personal bank transactions ❌ No, unless HMRC can justify relevance Scope of request can be challenged

Messages with fans/gift mentions ❌ Probably no, unless deemed essential Check with Onlytax adviser

🚀 Next Steps for OnlyFans Creators

Stay organised: Keep income reports, invoices, and self‑assessment returns aligned.

Don’t overshare: Only provide what’s legally required.

Appeal when needed: Use your 30‑day right if requests seem excessive.

Get expert support: A tax specialist who understands digital creators can save you time, hassle & money.

🔚 Final Word: Be Prepared & Protected

HMRC has the power to request documents—but you have rights, including the ability to challenge unreasonable demands. As an OnlyFans creator, your records may look messy—so let’s ensure you don’t hand over information that could drag you into deeper scrutiny.

✅ Want Peace of Mind?

If HMRC issues a Schedule 36 notice—or you're worried about a looming enquiry—contact Onlytax today. Our team specialises in digital creator tax compliance and will make sure you only hand over what’s necessary—no more, no less. Keep your earnings protected; keep HMRC investigations under control.