More and more people are setting up their own blogs as a way to make money doing something they truly love and which is able to give them a better quality of life. If this is something that you have been thinking about doing, as well as thinking about writing good articles and designing an attractive blog, you will need to devote some time to ensure that your blog complies with all legal requirements. These will vary depending on where in the world you are based and how you decide to monetize your blog, but here are some of the most important things you should think about:
Copyright Infringement
Perhaps the main cause of legal problems for bloggers is copyright infringement. This is the offense of using someone else’s content without their express permission to do so. Luckily, this is easily avoided by only posting your own original content and content that has been made freely available for redistribution. If you do find an article, video or photograph that you would really like to use, but which is owned by someone else, get in touch with them and ask them if you could use it and be sure to give them credit, or else you could be in trouble.
Be Honest
When you’re blogging, it’s fine to express your opinions and talk about a vast array of subjects, but you should steer clear of making unsubstantiated claims or downright lying on your blog. Not only could this make you look unprofessional, but it could conceivably land you in hot water if any of the parties you’ve written dishonestly about decide to take legal action.
Disclose Affiliate Links
Depending on where you’re based, there is a good chance that you will be legally obliged to notify your readers if you use any affiliate links. This is important because it ensures that your blog is transparent and gives your readers all of the information they need to make informed decisions. Letting them know you’re using affiliate links or you’re writing a paid review, if you conduct yourself honestly will not make a bit of difference to your blog or business, so don’t worry about putting disclaimers in place.
Make Your Information Available
As a blogger, you may also need to make your personal information, such as your name and business address freely available on your blog. If you are concerned about privacy, it’s fine to use a service like physicaladdress.com, which will give you a business address that is different from your own, but it’s important you put your details up there, not only to comply with requirements but to give your readers a sense of security in their dealings with you.
Register for Taxation
If you are making even a single cent from your blog, you need to register for tax and keep detailed accounts. Blogging is, after all, a job for many people and you will be expected to pay your fair share of tax on any profits you make. If you do not do this, you could be in extremely serious trouble and have your reputation ruined. It really isn’t worth the risk.
Are you a professional blogger? Do you have any tips to help new bloggers comply with their legal duties?
Michelle S says
These are great tips. I’ve been toying with the idea of a blog for the last year. I like the advice that other bloggers share.
Jessica W. says
I agree, as long as you are posting your own original material, you never have to worry about copyright issues!