Recently, headlines have been buzzing with news claiming that “using social media will be taxed.” Many people panicked, thinking that anyone who simply opens Instagram or TikTok would be billed by the tax office.
The fact is: not every social media user will be subject to taxes.
Who will be affected?
The government is indeed expanding the scope of digital taxation. Starting in 2026, the new regulations will target those who earn income from digital platforms.
This means if you’re just an ordinary user scrolling, posting photos, or watching videos, you won’t be taxed. But if you’re a content creator, affiliate marketer, streamer, or influencer earning money from social media, be prepared—you fall under the taxable category.
Income sources that will be monitored include:
- Revenue from YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram
- Commissions from affiliate programs like Shopee Affiliate
- Donations from platforms such as Saweria and Trakteer
How does the current tax scheme work?
✅ Foreign platforms (e.g., YouTube, Amazon Affiliate) usually withhold tax in their home country. For instance, Google deducts U.S. tax ranging from 0–30%, but it doesn’t withhold Indonesian tax. This income must still be reported in your annual tax return (SPT).
✅ Local platforms (e.g., Shopee, TikTok Shop) typically withhold income tax (PPh) 23 at 2% or PPh 21 for certain categories. You’ll receive a tax withholding slip, which you can use to avoid double taxation.
✅ Digital donations (Saweria, Trakteer) only deduct platform fees—not taxes. However, all donations you receive are still considered income and must be reported.
What will change in 2026?
The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) plans to leverage AI, web crawling, and data analytics to track digital income. Using this technology, the system will be able to monitor creator accounts and verify income data from multiple platforms.
It’s even possible that major platforms will be required to act as automatic tax withholding agents. This means every donation, affiliate commission, or content revenue could be taxed at the source—before it even reaches a creator’s bank account.
What should creators and influencers do?
Starting now, there are several key steps to prepare for the digital tax era:
- Get a Tax ID (NPWP) if you don’t already have one.
- Keep detailed records of all income from digital platforms.
- Save tax withholding slips from platforms or brands that pay you.
- File your annual tax return honestly and on time.
Conclusion
Not every social media user will be taxed. These regulations only apply to those earning income from digital platforms.
For creators, affiliates, streamers, and influencers, the digital tax era is an approaching reality. Instead of waiting for a warning letter, it’s far better to prepare now.
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