What is OnlyFans?
OnlyFans is an innovative social media platform that has revolutionized the way content creators monetize their audience. Launched in 2016 by Timothy Stokely, the platform has grown exponentially, reaching over 1 million content creators and more than 100 million users in 2023.
OnlyFans differs from traditional social networks by its unique business model:
- Influencers post exclusive content, ranging from fitness tutorials to artistic performances to adult content.
- Fans pay a monthly subscription (usually between $4.99 and $49.99) to access this exclusive content.
- The platform also allows the sale of individual content and the organization of paid live events.
OnlyFans retains 20% of the revenue generated, leaving 80% to creators, a rate that is particularly attractive in the industry.
How to get started on OnlyFans: Step-by-Step Guide to Maximize Your Earnings
Launching a successful account requires a methodical approach. Here's a detailed guide to help you get started and make money with Onlyfans right from the start.
1. Creating your account
The critical first step is creating an account that reflects your personal brand.
- Go to the social network Onlyfans.com and click on”Sign up“
- Use a professional email address for your OnlyFans account or sign in with partners like Apple, Google, Facebook, or Twitter.
- Choose a username that is easy to remember and expresses something related to your niche.
- A good username can increase your visibility by 30%.
Think of something like "@FitnessFanatic" for a sports coach or "@theillustratestv" for a chef.
2. Verifying your identity
Verifying your identity is a mandatory step that guarantees the security and legitimacy of the platform.
- Have a valid ID ready
- Take a clear selfie while holding your ID
- Submit these documents through the OnlyFans verification process
Important: Verification can take up to 72 hours. Use this time to plan your content.
3. Setting up your profile
A well-designed profile is your showcase on OnlyFans. It needs to be engaging and informative to convert visitors into subscribers.
- Add a professional profile photo
- Use the software Canva if necessary to improve the visual
- Write an engaging bio that clearly describes your offer
- Add links to your other social networks. Increase your conversion rate by 25% with a perfect bio
Example: “Explore the secrets of fitness with me! Exclusive training programs, nutritional advice, and daily motivation.”
4. Setting your subscription price
Pricing is a key part of your strategy, plans should reflect the value of your content while remaining competitive.
- Analyze your niche and the competition
- Start between $4.99 and $14.99 to get your first subscribers
- Plan to adjust your rate as your audience grows. Strategy: Offer 50% off for the first 30 days.
Creators using this technique see an average increase of 40% in initial subscriptions.
5. Creating your first content
Your content is the core of your offering. It should be of high quality, varied, and consistent with your brand.
- Prepare 5-10 quality posts before launch
- Vary the formats: photos, selfies, short videos, engaging texts
- Make sure your content reflects your niche and personality
A creator who posts daily for the first month earns 200% more than those who publish sporadically.
6. Setting up your monetization strategy
Diversify your revenue streams to make money with Onlyfans even more.
- Activate paid private messages (PPV)
- Create exclusive content to sell in addition to the subscription
- Offer long-term subscription packages at a discount
Creators using PPV effectively increase their revenue by 30 to 50% on average.
7. Promoting your OnlyFans page
Effective promotion is essential for attracting subscribers. Use every channel at your disposal.
- Use your other social networks to advertise your page
- Create teaser content to attract curious people
- Collaborate with other creators for cross-exposure
Statistic : A creator active on at least 3 social platforms in addition to OnlyFans generally has three times more subscribers.
8. Engaging with your audience
Engagement is the key to retaining your subscribers and encouraging word-of-mouth.
- Respond to messages and comments regularly
- Host live sessions to interact in real time
- Ask for feedback from your subscribers to improve your offer
Important fact : A creator who interacts with their fans on a daily basis has a retention rate that is 40% higher than average.
By following these steps and optimizing every aspect of your presence, you will maximize your chances of success on OnlyFans. Remember: consistency and quality are the keys to sustainable growth.
Top Ways to Make Money on OnlyFans
OnlyFans offers plenty of opportunities for content creators to monetize their audience. Here are the most effective methods to optimize your earnings on the platform, with details and concrete examples:
1. Paid subscription service
The subscription model is the main source of Earnings on OnlyFans. To succeed:
- Set a competitive price between $5 and $50 per month, according to your niche and the quality of your content. For example, a fitness person could set their subscription to $15 per month, offering training programs and nutritional advice.
- Offer high-quality, exclusive content to justify the price. For example, a musician could offer exclusive acoustic sessions or detailed tutorials.
- Offer promotional discounts to attract new subscribers. An offer of 50% off for the first month may encourage hesitant fans to take the plunge.
Success example : Belle Delphine, a British cosplayer, generated over $1 million per month thanks to its OnlyFans subscriptions at the height of its popularity.
2. Paid posts (Pay-per-view)
Even with a free account, you can monetize premium content:
- Create high-quality content that your fans will be ready to unlock. For example, a photographer could offer exclusive photo series at $10 each.
- Use social media to promote your paid posts. Share enticing previews on Instagram or Twitter to draw attention to your OnlyFans content.
- Offer a mix of free and paid content. For example, post free posts regularly, but keep your best creations for paid content.
Tips : Creators who use pay-per-view effectively can increase their revenue by 30 to 50% compared to subscriptions alone.
3. Paid private messages (PPV)
Personalized messages are a great way to make extra money:
- Offer unique and personalized experiences to your fans. For example, a life coach could offer personalized coaching sessions via video messages at $50 per session.
- Set a competitive price for your PPV messages. Prices generally vary between $5 and $100, depending on the type and duration.
- Use this method to create a stronger connection with your loyal subscribers. Offer personalized answers to their questions or special signings.
4. Live Streaming
Live streams on the internet are a great way to engage with your audience and make money with Onlyfans:
- Host regular live events with tickets starting at $5. For example, a chef could offer weekly live cooking class videos with their account.
- Use streaming features to provide a quality experience. Invest in a good microphone and camera for professional results.
- Respond to messages and comments regularly. Host live sessions to interact in real time, answer questions, do personalized shout-outs.
Interesting fact : Creators who do live sessions regularly see a 40% increase in fan engagement on average.
5. Tips and Fundraising
Encourage your fans to support you financially with various means on the internet:
- Set up a tip menu with various options to encourage fans to support you financially. For example: $5 for a personal message, $20 for an exclusive photo, $50 for a personalized video.
- Offer exclusive rewards for donors. For example, mention the biggest donors in your posts or give them early access to certain content.
- Create an Amazon wish list for specific gifts. This can range from equipment to enhance your content to personal items that your fans would love to give you.
6. Sale of physical products
Diversify by selling products related to your brand:
- Suggest articles related to your niche. An artist could sell original prints, and a fitness influencer could offer branded sportswear.
- Use OnlyFans to promote your products. Create content featuring your products to generate interest.
- Integrate an e-commerce platform like Shopify to manage sales. This will allow you to easily manage orders and shipments.
Success example : Some OnlyFans creators have managed to generate up to 30% additional income through the sale of derivative products.
To make money earning on OnlyFans, it's crucial to diversify your revenue streams and consistently offer quality content. Engage regularly with your audience and adapt your strategy based on their feedback. Remember that success on OnlyFans requires time and persistence.
Final advice : The most successful creators on OnlyFans devote 4 to 6 hours per day to creating exclusive content, engaging with their fans, and promoting their page. Consistency and quality are the keys to success on this platform.
How to optimize your earnings on OnlyFans
OnlyFans has revolutionized the way content creators monetize their audience. Here are some proven strategies to increase your earnings:
1. Offer quality content
Success on OnlyFans is based above all on the quality of your content, those who invest in the production of premium content notice a 40% increase in their monthly earnings. To stand out from the crowd:
- Create exclusive content that can't be found elsewhere.
- Innovate constantly to keep your audience engaged
- Invest in quality equipment for professional photos and videos
2. Get creative
Creativity is your best asset in retaining your subscribers, those who regularly renew their approach observe a 25% higher subscriber retention rate to the other models:
- Artists: Share behind-the-scenes insights into your creative process.
- Fitness coaches: Develop personalized training programs
- Musicians: Offer exclusive acoustic sessions
3. Listen to your fans
Engaging with your fans is crucial for long-term growth. Creators who interact with their followers regularly see their engagement rate increase by 60%. Adopt these practices:
- Start surveys to find out the preferences of your fans
- Adapt your content based on the feedback received
- Offer tailor-made content to your most loyal subscribers
4. Use social networks
Social platforms are essential for attracting new subscribers. People who are active on several social networks generally have 3 times more subscribers only those who are limited to OnlyFans.
Here are some strategies to adopt:
- Diversify your presence on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, or related sites
- Share insights that make you want to know more
- Maintain a regular presence to maintain engagement
5. Offer promotions
Special offers can significantly boost subscriptions. Those who use promotions wisely see their number of subscribers increase by 30% during these times.
- Launch limited-time offers to create a sense of urgency
- Offer attractive subscription packages (ex: 3 months at -20%)
- Align your promotions to specific events
6. Take advantage of the referral program
The OnlyFans affiliate system can become a significant source of income. Creators active in sponsoring generate on average 15% additional income. To take advantage of it:
- Share your referral link on your various platforms
- Earn 5% of sponsored creators' earnings for one year
- Build a network of creators to amplify your earnings
7. Post regularly
Creators who publish at least 3 to 4 times per week have an unsubscribe rate 40% lower than those who post sporadically.
- Set a fixed publishing schedule
- Vary the type of content to keep interest (ex:
- Announce future publications to create foresight
8. Engage with your community
Interacting directly with your fans can significantly boost your success. Creators who regularly respond to fan messages have a 50% higher re-subscription rate.
- Respond promptly to comments and private messages.
- Host live sessions to create a stronger connection
- Reward loyalty with exclusive content
By consistently applying these strategies, you will significantly increase your chances of success on OnlyFans.
Remember that success on this platform requires time, patience, and a constant commitment to your subscribers. With perseverance and a thoughtful approach, you will be able to join the 1% of the most successful people who earn over $5,000 per month on OnlyFans.
Financial and fiscal management on OnlyFans
Managing your revenue is crucial; it is essential to understand and comply with your tax obligations to avoid associated risks.
Declaration of results
All income from OnlyFans must be declared to the tax authorities, in many cases, you will be considered self-employed or self-employed.
- Keep a detailed record of earnings.
- Consult a chartered accountant to optimize your tax situation
- Remember the potential implications in terms of VAT, depending on your location and turnover
Financial transparency is essential for sustainable success on OnlyFans.
Pitfalls to avoid to succeed on OnlyFans
Success in making money with Onlyfans requires time, effort, and a well-thought-out strategy, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Unrealistic expectations : Overnight success is rare, be prepared to invest time and energy before you see real results.
- Neglect of promotion : OnlyFans is not a discovery tool despite its rise in terms of users, actively use other social media to attract fans.
- Lack of consistency : Post regularly to keep your fans engaged.
- Ignore the interaction : Engage with your fans, personalization is key to retaining your audience.
- Underestimating the competition : Differentiate yourself by offering unique and quality content.
By avoiding these pitfalls and adopting a professional approach, you will greatly increase your chances of success on OnlyFans. Remember that building a loyal fan base is a process that requires patience and persistence.
Alternatives to OnlyFans to make money
Although it is the best known platform, other sites exist with more or less different ways for those who want to earn money:
1. MYM
MYM is a fast-growing French platform, mainly targeting French-speaking Europe, but with strong growth in LATAM and English-speaking countries since 2024.
This website offers support with a rich knowledge base.
Contents and niches:
- Variety of niches: lifestyle, fitness, fashion, as well as adult content
- Strong presence of influencers and French personalities
Users and market:
- Over 8 million users
- Mostly popular in France, Belgium, Belgium, Switzerland, and French-speaking Canada
Distribution of remuneration:
- 80% for creators on subscriptions and content sales
- 75% on bonuses (tips) and private messages
- Bi-monthly payment, minimum threshold of €50
Critical review: MYM offers an attractive alternative for French-speaking creators, with a growing community and competitive commission rates.
However, MYM's international reach—though expanding—is still limited, which may hamper creators' global ambitions
2. Fansly
Fansly has grown in popularity as a direct alternative to OnlyFans, especially among creators of adult content.
Contents and niches:
- Primarily content-oriented and adult environment
- Also offers lifestyle, fitness, and art categories
Users and market:
- Over 5 million users
- Audience mainly American, but expanding internationally
Distribution of remuneration:
- 77.5% to 80% for creators, depending on sales volume
- Flexible pricing options including multiple subscription levels
- Weekly payment, minimum threshold of $50
Critical review: Fansly offers a more open and flexible platform than OnlyFans, with innovative features for creators of adult content. However, this strong association with adult content may limit its appeal to other niches.
3. Fanvue
Fanvue is positioning itself as a more ethical and diverse platform, attracting a variety of creators.
Contents and niches:
- Wide range of niches: art, music, coaching, cooking, as well as adult content
- Emphasizes diversity
Users and market:
- Over 1 million users (growing rapidly)
- International audience, with a strong presence in the United Kingdom and the United States
Distribution of remuneration:
- Up to 85% for creators
- Varied monetization options including subscriptions, pay-per-view, and derivatives
- Weekly payments, minimum threshold of $20
Critical review: Fanvue offers a more balanced and ethical approach, with attractive commission rates. Its user-friendly platform and its focus on the diversity of content make it a promising option. However, its smaller user base may limit short-term revenue opportunities.
FAQs
How much do the creators of OnlyFans make?
Creators receive 80% of their earnings, while OnlyFans keeps 20%. For example, if you win $1,000, you'll get $800.
Can you use a fake name on OnlyFans?
Yes, you can use a stage name on your public profile. However, your real name is required for identity verification and banking login.
What types of content can I post on OnlyFans?
You can post photos, videos, live sessions, blog posts, and private messages. The platform hosts adult content as well as varied content such as fitness, cooking, and music.
How do I promote my OnlyFans account?
Use your other social networks to attract followers to your account. Create teasers on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Collaborate with other creators to expand your reach.
What payment methods are available on OnlyFans?
Payments are made via credit cards and transfers to your bank account, guaranteeing secure transactions.
What are the criteria to be accepted on OnlyFans?
To view an account, you must be at least 18 years old and provide photo ID and a verification selfie.
Summary.
As for my final opinion on my OnlyFans article, I think it's a great platform for anyone looking to make extra money as content creators.
While explicit content is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about an OnlyFans account, a wide range of content can be published on the platform.
For those who are looking for a side hustle that can generate passive income, this platform offers you all the tools you need to get started and develop your audience.
Now you know how to make money with Onlyfans and the secret to successful ones, good luck!