If you want to earn money from your YouTube channel, you’ll need to meet YouTube’s monetization requirements. Here’s a clear summary of the current eligibility criteria and what you need to do to join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP).
Meet the Basic Requirements
To apply for monetization, your channel must meet the following minimum requirements:
– Have at least 1,000 subscribers
– Have at least 4,000 watch hours in the last 12 months or 10 million Shorts views in the last 90 days
– Live in a country or region where the YouTube Partner Program is available
– Have a linked Google AdSense account
– Follow all YouTube monetization policies and Community Guidelines
Enable 2-Step Verification
You must turn on 2-step verification for your Google account to protect your channel. This is a required step before applying for monetization.
Apply for the YouTube Partner Program
Once you meet the above requirements, go to YouTube Studio > Monetization and click “Apply.” The review process may take a few days or several weeks.
YouTube will check your content to ensure it follows their monetization guidelines. This includes avoiding reused content, copyright violations, and harmful or misleading material.
Understand What Content Can Be Monetized
You can monetize various types of content, such as:
– Original videos (vlogs, tutorials, gameplay, etc.)
– YouTube Shorts (under Shorts Fund or ad revenue sharing)
– Live streams
– Community posts (after meeting eligibility)
However, videos that contain reused content (like clips from other creators without transformation) or limited original commentary may not be approved.
Stay Monetized
After being approved, you must continue following YouTube’s policies. If your content violates the rules, monetization can be suspended. Also, your channel must remain active to stay in the Partner Program.
Additional Ways to Earn
Once monetized, you can earn money through:
– Ad revenue (from ads shown on your videos)
– Channel memberships
– Super Chat and Super Thanks
– YouTube Premium revenue
– Shopping features and product tagging (if eligible)
Final Tips
Focus on creating consistent, high-quality content that engages your audience. Promote your videos, encourage subscribers, and build your watch time organically. Avoid shortcuts like sub-for-sub or reused content, as these can delay or block monetization.
You’re Ready!
Once you meet all the requirements and your application is approved, you can start earning revenue from your content. Keep growing your channel and exploring new ways to connect with your audience!