Deductions

Tax Tips for Podcasters: What You Need to Know About Podcast Income

Running a podcast is an exciting creative venture, but the money you earn—whether from sponsorships, subscriptions, or the newer micropayments model—comes with a tax side‑kick you shouldn’t ignore. This guide breaks down the essential tax rules that every podcaster should understand, from reporting income to taking deductions and navigating self‑employment taxes.

1. Podcast Income Is Taxable Income

Anything you receive for your podcast—sponsorship fees, affiliate commissions, listener donations, subscription revenue, or even a one‑time payment for a paid episode—counts as gross income. The IRS treats podcast income the same way it treats any other freelance or self‑employed earnings. That means you must: