How to Get Monetized on YouTube in 2023: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Have you ever looked at your favorite content creator on YouTube and thought, “Hey, I could do that too – and make money while I'm at it!”? Well, my friend, you've come to the right place.
Today, we're diving into the steps you'll need to follow to get monetized on YouTube in 2023, including all the details of how to apply for the YouTube Partner Program and get your channel accepted. Grab a notepad (or open a new Google Doc) because we're covering everything from the new requirements to creative strategies. Let's get started!
1. Understand the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) Requirements
In 2023, YouTube's monetization requirements have shifted a bit, so let's make sure you're up to speed.
To be eligible to join the YouTube Partner Program, you must meet these requirements:
Watch Hours: You'll need at least 3,000 watch hours in the past 12 months. Sound scary? Don't worry; keep reading learn how to reach this goal.
Subscribers: 500 subscribers is now the magic number. Think of it as your first big YouTube milestone!
Uploads: at least 3 uploads within the past 90 days.
Adherence to Policies: Make sure you're following YouTube's community guidelines and terms of service. Seriously, they're not kidding around with this one.
Location: You must reside in a country where the YouTube Partner Program is available.
AdSense Account: You'll need a linked AdSense account to receive your earnings.
However, upon entering the YPP with only 500 subscribers, your channel will only be eligible for some of the opportunities to earn on YouTube. To qualify to earn Ad Revenue or YouTube Premium Revenue, your channel must surpass the following thresholds:
4,000 watch hours within a 12 month period
1,000 subscribers
Here’s a chart provided by YouTube with details on exactly which earning opportunities channels are eligible for at each threshold:
2. Create Content that Stands Out
You know that age-old saying, “Content is king”? Well, there’s no place that’s more true than on YouTube.
Here's what you need to keep in mind:
Find Your Niche: What are you passionate about? What can you talk about all day? Dive into that!
Quality over Quantity: Your audience will appreciate a well-thought-out video rather than a hastily put-together one.
But also… quantity. Most channels that grow successfully publish at least one video per month, with weekly videos being most typical.
Engage with Your Audience: Reply to comments, ask for feedback, and let your personality shine!
Related: How I Plan & Create My Content (for YouTube, Podcast, Instagram, and Newsletters)
3. Grow Your Channel
Growth doesn't happen overnight, but with dedication and the right tactics, you'll see that subscriber number climb. Beyond quality content, here are a few more things you can do to grow your channel as quickly as possible.
Promote on Social Media: Use other platforms to spread the word about your channel.
Collaborate: Connect with other creators in your niche and feature each other in your videos..
Master SEO — at least the basics: Optimize your video titles, descriptions, and tags to make it clear what your video is about.
4. How to Apply to the YouTube Partner Program
Once you've hit the requirements, it's time to apply! The process can take up to a month, so try to stay patient. Follow the prompts in the “Earn” tab of your YouTube Creator Studio, then just keep an eye on your email for updates.
5. Explore Additional Monetization Options
Beyond AdSense, YouTube has introduced several ways to monetize in 2023:
Channel Memberships: Get your most loyal fans to sign up for paid subscriptions for extra content.
Merch Shelf: If you've got cool merchandise ideas, you can now sell it directly under each of your videos.
Super Chat & Super Stickers: A fun way for your viewers to contribute during live streams to get extra attention from you.
Sponsorships and Brand Deals: When your channel grows, companies might approach you to get their products featured in your videos. Of course, it’s important to always be transparent with your audience about these deals.
Related: How to Make YouTube Your Full-Time Job (Practical Advice & Steps from a Full-Time Creator)
6. Stay Informed and Adapting
YouTube is constantly evolving, so keep an eye on updates and changes to the platform. Join creator communities, follow YouTube's Creator Blog, and never stop learning.
Conclusion: Your Path to Monetization
So there you have it! Getting monetized on YouTube in 2023 isn't just a pipe dream – it's a feasible goal with the right approach and dedication. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither will your YouTube empire be.
Focus on creating content that you love, and chances are high others will love it too. Engage with your audience, never stop learning, and above all, enjoy the journey. Who knows? You could be the next big YouTube sensation! 🚀
