Brand deals, sponsored posts, and affiliate commissions are self-employment income. Calculate your total tax liability across all revenue streams.
TurboTax Self-Employed handles Schedule C, 1099-NEC, platform income, and every creator deduction automatically. Guaranteed max refund.
File with TurboTax Self-Employed →Every 1099 or PayPal payment is taxable: Whether you get a 1099-NEC or not, ALL brand deals, affiliate commissions, and product income must be reported on Schedule C.
Travel content = deductible: If you travel to create content (photoshoots, sponsored trips, location scouting), a portion of those travel costs is deductible. Keep records of the business purpose of each trip.
PR packages = taxable income: Free products received in exchange for reviews are taxable at their fair market value. This surprises many new influencers.
Home office for editing: If you have a dedicated editing space, the home office deduction can save $1,500-5,000/year depending on your rent/mortgage.
LLC for liability protection: As your income grows, consider forming an LLC to protect personal assets from business liability. Use our LLC cost calculator to see state fees.