Do Pro Dommes Pay Taxes?

Because it's the United States, one of the big questions I get asked is, "Is that real...?" After that, I get asked a lot, "Do you pay taxes?" The shortest possible answer is yes. I do.

If you earn money, the IRS doesn't care where it came from. They don't care if you made it editing video, serving drinks, waiting tables, or tying a guy up and pulling him in the air before you make him go upside down. They only care you report it. Adult work is legal to perform in most places in the US. Laws vary, but online content, phone, cam, etc. are generally legal in every state. Providing services like educational services, speaking engagements, and actual performances are also generally legal in every state. Thus, they are taxable.

We're usually considered self-employed. Pro Dommes, cam models, clip creators, even escorts are all considered self-employed. That means you pay income tax on what you earn. You might also pay a self-employment tax and state income taxes. The IRS doesn't care about your job title. They care that you pay your taxes.

What Goes On Our Tax Returns?

In case you're new to adult work, a tax return is the IRS having a gossip session with your bank account. You need to tell them your total income, business expenses, net income, and some other information. From there, you pay taxes.

Because we are self-employed and our jobs depend on performance, we do get to write some interesting things off on our tax returns. Website hosting and domain fees are all write-offs. They are part of our business, and valid. Any kind of equipment like lighting, cameras, and audio gear also count. If you have costumes or props for business use only, it's a write-off. Beauty items and wardrobe items can also be written off if they're only for performances. We also write off any workspace rentals, office supplies, marketing, and advertising fees.

How Do We Survive Tax Season?

Since we file taxes as someone who is self-employed, there are a few ways to survive it.

First, it's a very good idea to set aside a percentage of what you make. The best rule of thumb is setting aside 30% of your income each month. Just throw it into an account and leave it there until the tax bill comes in. It stays out of sight, and doesn't turn into a "Woops! Spent it on latex."

Tracking everything is the second part. Every purchase made, every fee paid, and every penny brought in needs to be tracked. Quickbooks is amazing for tracking everything, and keeping receipts organized. There's also no issue with a good old spreadsheet.

If you are making a decent living and earning consistently, paying quarterly taxes is a solid idea. Then, you pay estimated taxes each quarter and don't have this massive lump sum in April. However, putting your stuff in a bank account makes a lump sum in April not so bad.

But, That's Validating?

It is, actually. The IRS doesn't care what our job title is. We are treated like any other business owner and self-employed person. Our work is legitimate, our income is real, and it's taxable. There are states and places that claim sex work isn't work or isn't legal work. But, they validate our earnings. Hrm...makes one stop to think.

Your work is legitimate. My work is legitimate. Your income is real. My income is real. It is taxable. Treat it like a business. Because it is a business.