Creator Tax Advice: A Practical Checklist for Canadian Content Creators

1. Keep records from day one

Download payout statements from every platform each month and keep receipts for every expense. The CRA can ask for records going back six years.

2. Open a separate bank account

Running creator income and expenses through one account makes bookkeeping far easier and gives you a clean paper trail.

3. Set money aside from every payout

Move a fixed share of each payout into a savings account for tax. If you owe enough, the CRA may ask for quarterly instalments, so this habit keeps you ready.

4. Know what you can deduct

Expenses must be reasonable and tied to earning income. Gear, software, content wardrobe and a share of home-studio costs often qualify. Purely personal items don't.

5. Watch the GST/HST threshold

Track your total sales across platforms. Passing $30,000 in four consecutive quarters means registering for GST/HST.

6. Protect your privacy

Use a business name where possible, keep personal and business details separate, and work with an accountant who handles your information discreetly.

7. Know when to hire an accountant

If you earn on several platforms, have missed years, are near the GST/HST threshold, or are thinking about incorporating, a specialist can save you time and money.

Should I incorporate as a creator?

It depends on your income and plans. It's worth comparing sole-proprietor and corporate numbers using your real income before deciding.

Is my information kept private?

Yes. We treat everything you share as confidential, and stage names are welcome.