Self-Employment Taxes for Influencers: What Forms Do I File?

Being an influencer, YouTuber, TikToker, Shopify or Amazon seller comes with many exciting opportunities — but it also comes with tax responsibilities. Unlike W-2 employees, who have taxes withheld from their paychecks, self-employed creators are responsible for reporting income and paying taxes on their own.

One of the most common questions we hear is: “What forms do I file for self-employment taxes?” Let’s break it down in plain English.

What Counts as Self-Employment Income?

If you earn money from:

• YouTube AdSense, brand sponsorships, or Patreon
• TikTok or Instagram collaborations
• Shopify or Amazon store sales
• Freelance work or creative services

…then you’re considered self-employed in the eyes of the IRS. That means you’re responsible for paying both income tax and self-employment tax (which covers Social Security and Medicare).

The Key Tax Forms for Influencers

Here are the main forms you’ll likely file:

1. Schedule C (Form 1040) – Profit or Loss From Business

This is where you report your income and deduct your business expenses (such as camera gear, editing software, home office, or travel for shoots).

💡 Example: A YouTuber earned $80,000 in ad revenue and sponsorships, but spent $20,000 on equipment, software, and marketing. On Schedule C, they would report $80,000 income, subtract $20,000 expenses, leaving $60,000 net profit.

2. Schedule SE (Form 1040) – Self-Employment Tax

This is where you calculate your self-employment tax (currently 15.3% on net earnings).

💡 Example: From the $60,000 profit above, the YouTuber would owe about $9,180 in self-employment tax (15.3% × $60,000).

3. Form 1040 – Individual Income Tax Return

This is your main tax return. It includes your Schedule C and Schedule SE, along with any other income (like W-2 wages if you also have a job).

💡 Example: If that same YouTuber also works part-time at a café and gets a W-2, both their W-2 income and influencer income are combined on Form 1040.

4. Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments (Form 1040-ES)

Since no one is withholding taxes for you, the IRS requires you to make estimated payments four times a year (April, June, September, and January).

💡 Example: An influencer expects to owe $20,000 in total taxes for the year. They should pay about $5,000 every quarter to avoid penalties.

Do I Get a 1099 Form as an Influencer?

Yes — if you earn $600 or more from a brand, platform, or company, you may receive a 1099-NEC or 1099-K. But even if you don’t get one, the income is still taxable.

💡 Example: A TikToker earned $5,000 from brand deals but didn’t receive a 1099-NEC because the company didn’t issue one. They still must report the $5,000 on Schedule C.

California Influencers: Don’t Forget the FTB

If you live in California, you’ll also file a state return and may need to make California estimated tax payments. California follows similar rules as the IRS but has its own tax rates.

Why Professional Help Matters

Self-employment taxes can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re juggling multiple income streams and deductions. A CPA can help you:

• Maximize write-offs (gear, travel, home studio, even part of your cell phone bill)
• Avoid penalties from missed estimated payments
• Decide if switching to an S-Corp could lower your taxes

Final Takeaway

If you’re an influencer, YouTuber, Shopify or Amazon seller, or other creative professional, you’ll need to file Schedule C, Schedule SE, and Form 1040 — and likely make quarterly estimated tax payments. With good planning, you can stay compliant and keep more of what you earn.

📍 Need Help Filing as a Self-Employed Creator?

At Velin & Associates, Inc., we specialize in tax planning for influencers, YouTubers, TikTokers, Shopify sellers, Amazon businesses, doctors, dentists, and other small business owners in Los Angeles.

For more information about our tax planning services, contact us today: visit our website.

Velin & Associates, Inc

8159 Santa Monica Blvd STE 198/200 West Hollywood, CA 90046
323-902-1000
dmitriy@losangelescpa.org