Question 1

How do I combine income from multiple platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Patreon?

Accepted Answer

Add up all income from all platforms: **YouTube AdSense**, **Instagram sponsored posts**, **Patreon/membership fees**, **affiliate commissions**, **digital product sales**, and **course income**. This combined total is your gross professional income. Each platform usually provides annual income statements that you can use for accurate reporting.

Question 2

Is income from international platforms like YouTube taxable in India?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If you're a **tax resident of India**, your global income is taxable in India. YouTube AdSense income from Google Ireland, Patreon income, etc., are all taxable. However, this income qualifies as **export of services** for GST purposes, making it zero-rated (no GST). You may also be able to claim foreign tax credit under DTAA if any tax was withheld abroad.

Question 3

When should I choose Section 44ADA over regular books of accounts?

Accepted Answer

Choose **Section 44ADA** when: (1) Income is below Rs 50 lakh, (2) Your actual expenses are **less than 50%** of income, (3) You want to avoid bookkeeping hassle. 44ADA automatically treats 50% as expenses. If your actual expenses exceed 50%, maintain regular books to claim higher deductions and pay lower tax.

Question 4

What is the advance tax schedule for content creators?

Accepted Answer

If tax liability exceeds Rs 10,000, pay advance tax: **June 15**: 15%, **September 15**: 45% cumulative, **December 15**: 75% cumulative, **March 15**: 100%. Under **Section 44ADA**, you can pay the entire tax in one installment by March 15 instead of quarterly payments. Missing deadlines attracts **1% monthly interest** under Section 234C.

Question 5

Can I claim expenses even if using Section 44ADA?

Accepted Answer

Under 44ADA, you get a **flat 50% deemed expense** - you cannot claim actual expenses separately. The only exception is if your actual expenses exceed 50% - in that case, opt out of 44ADA, maintain books, and file ITR-3 to claim actual expenses. Note: If you opt out of 44ADA, you **cannot use it again for 5 years** unless income falls below the threshold.

Creator Income Tax Calculator

Income Sources (Annual)

Business Expenses & Deductions (Annual)

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YouTube Income Calculator

Income Tax Calculator

Section 44ADA Presumptive Taxation

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