How to Start an OnlyFans (Complete 2026 Guide)

Thinking about starting an OnlyFans? This comprehensive guide covers everything from setup to scaling.

Getting Started

Account Setup

1. Create Account - Use email and verify identity
2. Complete Verification - Government ID and selfie required
3. Set Up Banking - Add payment method for payouts
4. Create Profile - Bio, profile pic, header image

Verification Requirements

OnlyFans requires:

• Valid government-issued ID
• You must be 18+ (21+ in some regions)
• Live selfie matching your ID
• Verification takes 24-72 hours

Content Strategy

What Content Sells

Popular content types:

• Exclusive photos and sets
• Behind-the-scenes content
• Custom content requests
• Interactive content (polls, chat)
• PPV (Pay-Per-View) messages
• Subscription tiers

Posting Schedule

Consistency matters:

• Daily posts perform best
• 3-5 posts minimum per week
• Use scheduling feature
• Mix content types

Pricing Strategy

Subscription Pricing

• Free accounts - Rely on tips and PPV
• Low ($3-9.99) - High volume, more subscribers
• Mid ($10-19.99) - Balance of value and earnings
• Premium ($20+) - Less subscribers, more per person

PPV Pricing

• Exclusive content: $5-50+
• Custom content: $20-200+
• Video calls: $50-500+

Growing Your Audience

Where to Promote

• Twitter/X (most important)
• Reddit (subreddits for your niche)
• Instagram (teaser content)
• TikTok (SFW content)
• Dating apps (discreetly)

What Works

• Consistent posting
• Engaging with comments
• Collaboration with other creators
• Reddit AMAs
• Cross-promotion

Managing Your Business

Tools to Use

• Scheduling apps
• Analytics tracking
• Message templates
• Content calendars
• Watermarks for content

Legal Considerations

• Track income for taxes
• Keep records of everything
• Understand content ownership
• Know your local laws

Common Mistakes

1. Inconsistent posting - Subscribers cancel
2. Underpricing - Hard to raise later
3. No promotion - They won't find you
4. Ignoring messages - Engagement matters
5. No backup - Always save your content

Realistic Expectations

Earnings vary wildly:

• Top 1%: $10,000+/month
• Top 10%: $1,000+/month
• Average: $150-500/month
• Most creators: Under $100/month

Success requires:

• Time investment
• Consistency
• Marketing skills
• Thick skin
• Business mindset

---

Already creating content? Check out our guides on best cam sites and AI girlfriend platforms for additional income streams.