Updated for 2025–2026 Tax Year
Streaming Income Tax Calculator
Find out how much of your streaming income you actually keep after taxes. Covers self-employment tax, income tax, and national insurance for 7 countries.
Your Streaming Income
$
Include all income: subs, bits, donations, sponsorships, merch
US Streamers: Self-employment tax (15.3%) hits before income tax. This is Social Security + Medicare — most creators are shocked by this.
Tax Estimate
Enter your annual income to see your estimated tax
Calculate Your Gross Streaming Income First
Use our platform calculators to estimate your gross earnings, then come back here to see your after-tax income.
Tax FAQ for Streamers
Do I have to pay taxes on streaming income?
Yes — in virtually every country, streaming income (subscriptions, donations, ad revenue, sponsorships) is taxable as self-employment or business income. The threshold varies: in the US any amount is taxable, in the UK the trading allowance is £1,000.
What is self-employment tax and why does it matter for US streamers?
In the US, employees have Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA) split between them and their employer. Self-employed creators pay the full 15.3% themselves. On $50,000 gross income, that's $7,650 before federal income tax even applies — this surprises most new streamers.
Are donations (like Twitch bits or StreamElements tips) taxable?
Yes. Despite the word "donation," platform tips and bits received as part of your streaming activity are taxable income. The IRS and HMRC both treat these as business receipts.
Can I deduct my gaming PC and streaming equipment?
Yes. In the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, equipment used exclusively for your streaming business is fully deductible in the year of purchase (or depreciated). Keep receipts. A $3,000 PC can save $660 in US federal income tax at the 22% bracket.
When do I need to start paying taxes as a streamer?
The moment you earn any income with the intention of making a profit. In the US, pay quarterly estimated taxes once you expect to owe $1,000+ for the year. In the UK, register within 3 months of crossing £1,000 in trading income.