Overview of Kirsty Buchan's Resignation and Tax Challenges
Kirsty Buchan, a Scottish former teacher who garnered popularity on the digital platform OnlyFans, has recently stepped down from her teaching role. This action follows closely behind the exposure of her substantial tax liabilities. Residing in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, Buchan faces a demanded payment of around $50,000 (£38,902.37) in back taxes for the fiscal period from April 2022 to April 2023. On top of this, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has levied an additional penalty of $31,000 (£25,189.28).
From Education to OnlyFans: A Financial Necessity
Prior to creating content on OnlyFans, Buchan explored several jobs to supplement her income, including working shifts at Tesco and taking on a seasonal position as a Christmas elf. The shift to OnlyFans, where she reported earnings up to £50,000 monthly, arose from financial necessity. However, complications emerged when it was revealed that students had accessed her OnlyFans content, leading to her eventual removal from the General Teaching Council for Scotland's national register in June, effectively ending her teaching career.
Tax Compliance and Enforcement by HMRC
The HMRC has taken a firm stance on tax compliance, featuring Buchan among 160 individuals and businesses in a public listing of deliberate tax defaulters, targeted at those with over £25,000 in tax debts. Kevin Hubbard, HMRC’s director of individual and small business compliance, highlighted the agency’s dedication to enforcing tax laws and the repercussions for those who fail to comply. This listing is part of a broader initiative to encourage transparency and compliance, and it remains publicly accessible for up to one year.
Buchan's Response to the Tax Assessment
In the wake of these financial revelations, Buchan has voiced her plans to contest certain aspects of the tax assessment, specifically the penalties imposed. She has informed BBC Scotland News of her intention to challenge the penalty charges, while ensuring that all verified taxes owed will be promptly paid. This case underlines the broader issues of financial transparency and compliance that many content creators on platforms like OnlyFans encounter, an area that has attracted increasing attention and scrutiny.
