Before you can earn, you must be accepted into the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). At its core, monetization is about running ads on your videos through Google's AdSense platform. The YPP is the "key" that unlocks this feature.

To be eligible, you must meet YouTube's minimum requirements:

  • 1,000 Subscribers on your channel.
  • 4,000 valid public watch hours within the past 12 months.
  • An active Google AdSense account linked to your channel.
  • Full adherence to all YouTube monetization policies (no copyright strikes, etc.).

These prerequisites ensure your channel has an established, engaged audience before you start serving ads.

Preparing Your Channel for Success

Getting into the YPP is just the first step. To maximize your success, you must prepare your channel.

1. Master Your Content

Familiarize yourself with YouTube's partner program terms. Understanding what content should and shouldn't be uploaded, along with strict guidelines around copyright, will ensure you stay in the program.

Use YouTube’s own Audio Library for background music to avoid any potential copyright infringement risks.

2. Optimize for Viewers

Optimize your video titles, thumbnails, and descriptions. They must accurately reflect your content while inviting viewers in. This is the single best way to increase view counts, which ultimately leads to more revenue.

3. Set Up Your AdSense Account

Your AdSense account is the gateway between YouTube’s advertising platform and your bank account. If you don't have one, set it up immediately, as it can take time for approval.

7 Ways to Earn Money on YouTube

Once you're in the YPP, your options expand dramatically. Here are the most effective monetization methods available.

  • 1. YouTube Ads (AdSense) This is the most common method. Ads are displayed before or during your video, and you earn a share of the revenue from Google.
  • 2. Brand Sponsorships & Deals This is often the most lucrative method. Brands pay you directly to feature their product or service in one of your videos.
  • 3. Channel Memberships Offer exclusive benefits (like special badges, early video previews, or members-only live chats) to viewers who pay a small monthly subscription fee directly to you.
  • 4. Super Features These features allow your most loyal fans to support you during live streams and premieres:
    • Super Chat: Highlights a fan's message in a live chat.
    • Super Stickers: Allows fans to send eye-catching stickers.
    • Super Thanks: Lets viewers send a one-time "tip" on any uploaded video.
  • 5. Affiliate Marketing Place special referral links for products or services (like DXP Hub!) in your video descriptions. You earn a commission when a viewer clicks that link and makes a purchase.
  • 6. YouTube Premium Revenue You don't have to do anything for this. If a "YouTube Premium" member (who pays for an ad-free experience) watches your content, you automatically get a portion of their subscription fee.
  • 7. Merchandise & Digital Products Use your channel to sell your own branded merchandise (T-shirts, mugs, etc.) or digital products (like e-books, video courses, or presets).