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YouTube has evolved from just a video platform to a major source of income for millions of creators. However, to start earning, it’s essential to join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). This program unlocks monetization features like ads, channel memberships, Super Chat, Super Thanks, and shopping, each with its own eligibility requirements. Here’s a detailed guide on how to earn on YouTube.

YouTube Partner Program (YPP) and Monetization

Before a channel can earn, YouTube reviews it thoroughly—checking content quality, compliance with community guidelines, recent uploads, and policy adherence. Priority is given to channels that are safe, advertiser-friendly, and produce quality content.

Once approved, creators gain access to multiple monetization options:

• Ad Revenue: The primary source of income where creators earn from ads displayed on their videos, including Shorts.

• YouTube Shopping: Creators can sell products or promote brands.

• YouTube Premium Revenue: Creators earn a share of subscription fees when Premium users watch their content.

• Channel Memberships: Viewers pay a monthly fee for exclusive perks like badges, special videos, and community posts.

• Super Chat and Super Stickers: Viewers can pay to highlight messages during live streams.

• Super Thanks: Viewers send animated “Thank You” messages with payments on videos.

Eligibility for Monetization Features

Different features have different requirements:

1. Ads Revenue / YPP Eligibility:

   • Minimum 1,000 subscribers

   • Either 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months or 10 million Shorts views in the past 90 days

   • Must have an AdSense account and ad-friendly content

2. Channel Memberships:

   • Minimum 500 subscribers

   • At least 3 public videos in the past 90 days

   • Must meet the watch time or Shorts views requirement

3. Super Chat, Super Stickers, Super Thanks:

   • Creator must be 18+ years old

   • Channel must be located in a country where these features are available

4. YouTube Shopping / Affiliate:

   • Minimum 10,000 subscribers

   • Channel should not be in “Made for Kids” or Music category

   • Must be in a supported country

The purpose of these rules is to ensure high-quality, safe, and trustworthy content while rewarding creators who follow YouTube’s policies.

Taxes on YouTube Income

Earnings from YouTube are usually taxable. Creators must provide accurate tax information in AdSense and comply with their country’s tax laws. YouTube does not provide tax advice, so consulting a local tax expert is recommended.

Gold Play Button

The Gold Play Button is YouTube’s prestigious award for channels that reach 1 million subscribers. To achieve this, creators must:

• Consistently create quality videos

• Build strong relationships with viewers

• Earn steady revenue through YPP

• Continuously improve content

Gradually, consistent effort and audience support help creators reach this milestone.