How to start on OnlyFans from zero.

Requirements

• Be over 18.
• A valid ID: the platform verifies your identity with your ID and a selfie.
• A bank account in your name to get paid.
• An email used only for this (recommended, to separate your personal life).

Before opening the account: decide your strategy

Think about your niche (what sets you apart), your limits (what you do and don't do) and whether you'll show your face. If you prefer anonymity, read OnlyFans without showing your face before creating anything.

Build a profile that converts

• A good-quality profile picture and banner.
• A short bio that says what subscribers will find.
• A subscription price that fits your niche and current audience (many new accounts start with an accessible price or a free trial).
• Several posts ready before you promote, so visitors find content.

Turn on privacy from day one

Set up geoblocking for your country or region if you don't want people you know to see you, watermark your content and don't use your real name. More in how to protect your content.

Get your first fans

The platform brings almost no traffic on its own: you bring it from social media. Step by step in how to promote your OnlyFans.

Common beginner mistakes

• Opening the account with no content ready.
• Promoting hard on day one, then disappearing.
• Not answering messages: that's where most of the income is.
• Not separating your personal identity from your creator one.

Should you start with an agency?

If you don't have time for messaging and marketing, it can make sense. If you'd rather try on your own first, that's fine too. Compare in agency vs going solo. At Elaia we work with creators starting from zero.