What a Instagram influencer pays at different income levels for TY 2026-27, which expenses count, and how TDS, GST and presumptive tax apply.
Quick answer
A Instagram influencer with ₹9 lakh of yearly receipts and about 25% in business expenses pays roughly ₹0 in income tax for TY 2026-27 under the better regime: about 0.0% of receipts. Income is taxed as business or professional income at slab rates.
| Early career | Established | Top earner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yearly receipts | ₹1,50,000 | ₹9,00,000 | ₹50,00,000 |
| Expenses (~25%) | ₹37,500 | ₹2,25,000 | ₹12,50,000 |
| Tax: new regime | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹7,33,200 |
| Tax: old regime (no deductions) | ₹0 | ₹49,400 | ₹9,75,000 |
| Tax with presumptive (58) | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 |
| GST registration | Not yet | Not yet | Required |
Estimates for Tax Year 2026-27 · Income-tax Act, 2025. Residents, no other income or deductions. Presumptive column uses section 58 (eligibility debated, see below).
Calculate your own taxPresumptive eligibility is debated
Influencer income is business/professional income, but influencers are not a named 44ADA profession. Eligibility is debated; many advisers prefer books of account or 44AD. Confirm with a CA.
Compare presumptive vs actualBrands and agencies usually deduct 10% TDS u/s 194J or 1–2% u/s 194C on fees. Gifted products above ₹20,000 a year can attract 10% TDS u/s 194R, often paid by the brand.
Most influencers' services are taxed at 18% GST once registered. Registration is compulsory above ₹20 lakh turnover (₹10 lakh in a few north-eastern states).
Only with regular books, not under presumptive taxation.
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