Monetization for Creators

YouTube Creators are individuals who produce content for the platform. This is a unique model that empowers Creators to earn money directly on our platform in a variety of different ways, including through placed advertising, merchandise sales, and subscriptions.

Advertising

Advertising is the primary way Creators can earn money on YouTube. Advertising revenue is generated when people watch ads that are running on videos. This revenue from ads is shared between YouTube and the Creator - thus empowering Creators to directly profit from their work.

Creators must first be eligible for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) in order to earn money from advertising on their videos and live streams. In keeping with our commitment to responsibility, we view monetization as a privilege and reward only trusted Creators.

Alternate monetization sources

Over the last few years we’ve introduced several alternate sources of revenue outside of advertising to help eligible Creators monetize their content while connecting with their viewers. As with the case of advertising, Creators and YouTube share revenue from these products.

Channel memberships

Fans can join a Creator’s channel with monthly recurring payments and get access to members-only perks like badges, custom emojis, and exclusive content.

*Feature availability varies by country and we are working to expand to more countries.

Super Chat and Super Stickers

Fans can buy and send text or digital sticker messages to highlight their live chat messages and connect with their favorite Creators.

*Feature availability varies by country and we are working to expand to more countries.

YouTube Shopping

Sell your products like merchandise directly to your fans. Just connect your store and you can display your products on a shelf underneath your videos and live streams. Plus, you’ll unlock the “Store” tab on your channel -- your own storefront on YouTube.

*Subject to eligibility requirements.

YouTube BrandConnect

YouTube BrandConnect is the full-service YouTube influencer marketing product for brands and creators to collaborate on branded content campaigns. Eligible creators can access YouTube BrandConnect directly in YouTube Studio, where they're able to connect with Google's portfolio of brands and secure sponsored content deals.

*Feature availability varies by country and we are working to expand to more countries.

Subscriptions

YouTube also earns money from monthly subscription businesses such as YouTube Premium. With YouTube Premium, members can enjoy any video on YouTube without ads while still supporting creators. Currently, revenue from YouTube Premium membership fees is distributed to YPP video Creators based on how much members watch their content.