How are gifted items taxed for influencers like Hannah Krohne?

Gifted items received by influencers are considered taxable income, meaning creators must pay taxes on their value as if it were earnings.

What is the typical commission for influencer managers?

Influencer managers generally take a standard 20% commission from the earnings of brand deals they help secure for creators.

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Influencer Taxes: The Shocking Reality

Q: What percentage of earnings should influencers like Hannah Krohne set aside for taxes?

Influencers like Hannah Krohne advise setting aside approximately 30% of all income from brand deals and affiliate programs to cover taxes.

31 Jan

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Summary

Influencers must pay taxes on gifted items as income.
Creators set aside 30% of earnings for taxes.
Managers take a standard 20% of brand deal earnings.

Hannah Krohne, a former corporate fashion professional, transitioned to full-time content creation in September 2025, discovering the often-unseen financial complexities of the influencer world. While initially drawn to the idea of free clothes, Krohne learned that gifted items, like those from Revolve, are considered taxable income. This realization led to a $3,700 tax obligation for clothing selected within a monthly fund.

Beyond the taxation of gifts, Krohne emphasizes the necessity for creators to diligently save for taxes, recommending setting aside approximately 30% of all income from brand deals and affiliate links. She also detailed that influencer managers typically earn a 20% commission on all secured brand deals, a standard industry practice. Furthermore, Krohne highlighted that influencers function as their own employers, responsible for their own retirement contributions and health insurance, unlike traditional corporate employees.

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