Top Social Media Platforms Monetization Guide for 2026

Published on 30.06.2026 by Chizoba T

Unlike in the past, when social media was used to connect with family and friends, today it has become a source of income for creators and brands. By simply hitting the eligibility requirements on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, you can start earning money by creating content. 

Whether you are a content creator, influencer, or an ordinary social media user, you can turn your content into a money-minting machine. However, the social media landscape can be quite competitive. To make some good money on social media, you need to be unique and find your niche. Additionally, the monetization requirements differ from one platform to another. In this article, we guide you on the monetization requirements for the top platforms.

How Social Media Monetization Works

Social media monetization involves turning your followers into a source of income legally, without scamming them. The exact monetization requirement will depend on the platform, method, and available tools. Some popular social media monetization methods include promoting your brand, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and listing your products on marketplaces.

Some social media platforms, such as Facebook and YouTube, also pay creators a percentage of the revenue they earn from brand advertising in their videos. They also pay when subscribers watch your content. The requirements for monetization differ by platform.

Creators on social media can also earn money through brand partnerships and affiliate marketing. Through these methods, creators earn commissions whenever someone buys a product using their link. The good thing with this method is that there are no strict requirements to qualify. We will discuss these monetization methods later in this article.

Why Social Media Monetization is Important

There are several reasons why social media monetization is important. For one, social media platforms can be a valuable resource for brands looking to sell their products. It can also help small creators looking to earn a living from their craft. With the introduction of in-app shopping, businesses and brands looking to increase sales have benefited as the number of steps required to complete a sale has reduced.

According to one study,1 million Facebook users buy directly from Shops each month. Additionally, social media platforms have added monetization features such as Facebook shop, subscription groups, and more. 

Some of the key benefits of social media monetization include:

  • Income differentiation. Monetization ensures that brands don't rely on a single income stream because they offer a variety of monetization methods, including ad revenue, sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and the sale of personal products.
  • Turn followers into revenue. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok allow creators to earn revenue from their followers.
  • Global reach. Through social media platforms, brands can reach a global audience.

How to Monetize on Facebook

Facebook offers creators different monetization options, such as video ads and features that let fans support you. The requirements for each one-time setup method depend on the tools you will be using. 

Some of the top monetization methods include:

Facebook Reels & In-Stream Ads

You can earn money from ads on your Facebook videos. However, you may be wondering how many Facebook followers it takes to make money. You will need to have met the following requirements:

  • Have a minimum of 10,000 followers on your page.
  • Have reached at least 600,000 total minutes on all videos in the last 60 days.
  • Have created at least 5 videos.
  • Be compliant with the Facebook community standards.
  • Monetization is allowed in your country.

Once you are approved, you can start earning from the in-stream ads that play in your videos and from the Facebook reels bonuses available in the region.

Fan Support and Facebook Stars

You can use Facebook stars to let viewers send you virtual gifts during on-demand videos and live streams. Each star is worth $0.01, and viewers can buy them in bundles during the live stream. You can access the stars only on a page, not a personal profile with a minimum of 1000 followers. This is on top of meeting the requirements we mentioned earlier for ads.

This monetization method is a good option for creators who often go live and create engaging videos. Your loyal fans will directly support you in return for recognizing them in the comment section.

Facebook Group Monetization

Facebook also allows group owners to monetize their content. The requirements are the same as for other monetization methods, in addition to having an established presence on the platform. The content you create should be legible. 

In addition, you can monetize your Facebook group by charging subscription fees for participants. You can also share discount codes and affiliate links for products to enable members to appreciate you. For instance, if you run a Facebook group for photographers, you can share camera gear. We recommend you read our guide on how to monetize a Facebook group in 2026.

How to Monetize on TikTok

As one of the fastest-growing social media platforms, you might want to know how to monetize on TikTok. The good news is that the platform offers different monetization options. However, the Creator Fund on TikTok was replaced by the Creator Rewards Program, which offers greater earning potential for eligible creators. 

To be eligible for the TikTok Creator Rewards, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • Be over 18 years old.
  • Have at least 10,000 followers.
  • Have gained a minimum of 100,000 video views in the previous 30 days.
  • Have a creator account rather than a business account.
  • Be in an eligible country.
  • Be following TikTok’s community guidelines.

The amount you receive from the Creator Rewards Program depends on the qualified video views. You will, however, need to create original videos that are at least one minute long. Take note that the raw and unpolished videos are winning over polished ones on TikTok.

TikTok Live Gifts & Tips

Compared to the Creators Reward, the requirements to earn from TikTok live are fewer, making it usually more accessible for growing creators. 

To qualify for the program:

  • Have a minimum of 1000 followers.
  • Be over 18.
  • Have an account in good standing.

Once you are monetized, viewers can begin sending you virtual gifts that can be converted to diamonds and later cashed out. Some of the top creators can earn thousands of dollars each month from Live gifts. There is also a tip function that allows followers to send money directly to the creator.

TikTok Affiliate Marketing

TikTok affiliate marketing is another great way to monetize on TikTok. As on other platforms discussed earlier, there are no monetization requirements. Instead, all you have to do is share your affiliate codes and links in the bio or the video caption.

You can also take advantage of the TikTok Shop affiliate program, where you will earn commissions for featuring products in your videos. This differs from the Creator Rewards and comes with separate requirements from the other monetization methods.

How to Monetize on Instagram 

Successful monetization of Instagram involves earning through a creator or a business account. From content creation and product sales to affiliate marketing and sponsored videos and ads, there are different ways to make money on Instagram. 

Instagram Reel Ads

The good thing about Instagram is that you don’t need a massive following to monetize, even with as few as 500 followers. However, to earn from the Instagram ad revenue-sharing option, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 18.
  • Have a Business or Creator account.
  • Reside in the U.S.
  • Live in a region where monetization is allowed.
  • Have a PayPal or a bank account to receive payment.
  • Adhere to the content community guidelines on Instagram without any violations.

Instagram Shopping

While the feature isn’t available in every region, it can be a powerful way to sell consumer goods, t-shirts, and mugs. In this method, your profile acts as a digital storefront where your followers can directly buy products from. You can then promote the shop on Reels and posts, making it easy for followers to buy directly in the feed. 

To be eligible for the Instagram shop, you must have a business account, be in a region where the feature is available, and comply with Instagram's monetization policies.

Instagram Subscriptions

This monetization method involves placing some of your content behind a paywall, where loyal subscribers can pay a small fee to access it. In addition to the monetization requirements we mentioned for Instagram Reels, you will need to have at least 10,000 followers, share accurate information, and demonstrate authentic engagement.

Instagram Badges

Instagram also allows creators to make money while going live. All they need to do is enable the Instagram badges on live videos, allowing followers to buy the badge to support you. On the other hand, the badges enable viewers to get more recognition and increase the visibility of their questions and comments. The advantage of this monetization method is that creators keep all the revenue from the badges they create.

Bonuses

Through Instagram bonuses, creators are rewarded when they reach milestones, such as creating a set number of reels or achieving a set number of engagements. This can be a great way of earning additional revenue if you're already using other monetization methods. However, eligibility will depend on your account type and region. You also need to be creating outstanding Instagram content to unlock the maximum bonuses.

Affiliate Marketing

Another way to make money on Instagram is through brand partnerships and affiliate marketing. With affiliate marketing, you share an affiliate link with your audience. If they buy through your link, you earn a commission from the brand. The good thing with this monetization method is that there are no rules to meet before you can join the program.

Brand Collaborations

If you are a creator on Instagram with a sizable following, you can earn by collaborating with brands so that you market their products in return for monetary compensation. Creators can showcase their sponsored content through reels, stories, and the Instagram method. This is, therefore, a great method for building a strong income stream and ensuring long-term collaboration.

For brand collaborations to work well, the creator needs to align with the target audience and brand image. Creating high-quality content can also be key to improving credibility and achieving better results.

How to Monetize on YouTube

There are different ways to monetize content on YouTube, such as:

YouTube Partner Program

YouTube is arguably the top platform for monetizing your content through its ad program, allowing creators to monetize both long- and short-form videos. There are two monetization tiers with different requirements. In the lower tier, you get access to features that let your fans reward you for creating content. 

The requirements for this tier are:

  • Have a minimum of 500 subscribers.
  • Have uploaded at least 3 videos in the last 3 months.
  • Reached at least 3000 watch hours for long-form videos or at least 3 million views for short videos in the previous 90 days.

Once you hit these milestones, you will have access to features such as channel membership, Super Chat, and Super Thanks, which allow your audience to support you. 

To access the tier for full monetization, you will need:

  • A minimum of 1000 subscribers.
  • Have reached at least 4,000 hours in the last 365 days or 10 million views for Shorts in the previous 90 days.
  • Have complied with YouTube's monetization policies.

After reaching the tier, you can now earn money from the ads playing in your videos. You also get to unlock the YouTube shopping features. The amount you get paid on YouTube depends on the content format: long-form videos earn through ads placed in your videos. The more the video's watch time, the more your earnings are likely to be.

On the other hand, Shorts' monetization uses a revenue-pool model. Ad revenue from YouTube Shorts is distributed to creators based on their total Shorts views. While the Shorts tend to earn less than the long-form videos, they can help you grow your account and achieve the threshold for subscription.

Affiliate Marketing

Another way to earn money on YouTube is through affiliate marketing, where you share another brand or product in your videos and add affiliate codes and links to the video description. Alternatively, you can find brands willing to sponsor your videos at a specific rate. 

However, this monetization method works better for certain types of content, such as product reviews, unboxing videos, and tutorials, since their audiences have strong buying intent.

Brand Deals and Sponsorships

Sponsorships and brand deals can be great revenue streams for creators, ranging from mid-sized to large, even when they don't meet the YPP's eligibility requirements. You are paid directly by brands without YouTube taking a cut. To get sponsors, you need a highly engaged audience rather than a massive one.

To get these opportunities, you can reach out to brands directly. Alternatively, there are third-party platforms that can connect you with brands such as Grapevine, AspireIQ, and BrandConnect (owned by YouTube). Remember to disclose your partnership to comply with YouTube's policies.

Selling Merchandise

If you have merchandise related to the kind of content you create, you can sell it to your target audience. Otherwise, selling some generic T-shirts and mugs may not work. If you are already a member of YPP, you are allowed to display your products below a video in the merchandise shelf. You can also tag the products inside your Shorts and long-form videos. 

If you are a non-YPP, a good option is to link to external stories in your descriptions and end screens. Remember that the timing is also important. Make sure you launch your merch after your audience gets an emotional connection with your brand.

How to Monetize on X

Formerly known as Twitter, X also offers its own monetization program, providing creators with various options. 

Some of the top-earning methods on the platform are:

Ad Revenue Sharing

The requirements to earn from this method include:

  • Having a minimum of 500 followers.
  • Have an X premium or a Premium Plus subscription.
  • An account in good standing/no violations.

Once you have qualified, you will begin earning a share of ad revenue from ads shown in the post. If you are a creator with some highly engaging content that drives conversations, your earnings are likely to be higher.

X also offers other monetization methods, such as:

  • Subscriptions. This method allows your followers to pay a fee for exclusive content, provided they have over 500 followers.
  • Media studio. This involves adding pre-roll ads to video content.
  • Tips. Flowers can send you tips using the added payment services.

How to Monetize on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is primarily made up of professionals, recruiters, and businesses that are already open to collaborations. Some individuals search for new opportunities, meaning it's possible to make money on LinkedIn. 

There are different ways to monetize your LinkedIn account, such as:

Affiliate Marketing

LinkedIn can be an effective platform for affiliate marketing, as long as it's done right. It works just like on other platforms: you recommend a product and earn a commission for every sale you make. However, it can help to choose a product that matches the needs of your audience and niche. You also need to ensure the tool delivers the promised value.

Brand Collaborations and Sponsored Posts

LinkedIn creators and influencers also make money using brand partnerships and sponsored posts. However, to use this monetization method, you need a strong, highly engaged community in a specific niche. In most cases, brands will reach out to you; if not, you can initiate the conversation by contacting the founders and key decision-makers.

Selling a Service

This is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to earn money on LinkedIn, especially if your business offers services such as design, consulting, or marketing. You need to position yourself as an expert on LinkedIn to start earning money by sharing content that helps to build your authority. This can include case studies, tips and guides, or success stories that will position you as an expert in your industry.

Selling a Product

If you have a product you are selling, such as software, a digital course, or an ebook, you can use LinkedIn to generate interest and drive sales. There is no need to pitch every one of your posts. 

Instead, you can use the platform to:

  • Highlight the benefits of the product.
  • Share customer testimonials and wins
  • Share BTC moments or personal stories.

How to Monetize on Pinterest

When it comes to monetizing social media accounts, Pinterest isn't the first platform that comes to mind for many people. However, there are still great ways to make money on Pinterest. 

These include:

Selling Digital Products

LinkedIn can be a great platform for selling digital products like planners, templates, and printables, helping you get your products in front of the right audience. However, you will need a Pinterest Business account to enhance your legitimacy and access the Analytics feature. You can then create some eye-catching pins and add some SEO-friendly ones. Ensure each pin directs viewers to your product pages.

Affiliate Marketing

You can make money on Pinterest by promoting your favorite products even when you don't create blog posts. Start by finding products that are affiliate-friendly on platforms like Amazon, ShareASale, and Etsy. You can then create pins that solve specific problems. 

You can also link to an affiliate product on your product page or landing page. However, when using this monetization method, you need to disclose that the link is an affiliate link to drive transparency. 

Drive Traffic to a Shopify or Pinterest Store

If you sell digital products, handmade items, digital downloads, or dropshipping products, Pinterest can be a great platform for marketing them. All you need to do is create separate pins for each product. When doing that, remember that the more pins you create, the more eyeballs on your products and the more sales you are likely to make. Use rich pins to add extra product details and make the pin stand out. You can also use Group Boards to gain more exposure and increase your reach.

Final Thoughts

Social media can now be a good source of income for creators. From earning through ads, affiliate programs, and selling merchandise, there are lots of ways to earn on social media. If you are wondering how to get started, our detailed guide will prove helpful. You can read our guide on how social media platforms actually make money.