YouTube is no longer just a video platform. It has become a full-time career for many people. A recent report shows that YouTube added over $55 billion to the U.S. economy and supported more than 490,000 full-time jobs. That’s huge.
So, if you’re thinking about how to make money on YouTube, you’re not alone. Whether you’re just starting or already posting videos, this simple step-by-step guide will help you learn exactly how to monetize your YouTube channel in 2025.
Step 1: Meet the Requirements for the YouTube Partner Program
Before you can earn money from your YouTube videos, you need to join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). This is YouTube’s official way of letting creators make money from their content.
To qualify in 2025, your channel must have:
- At least 1,000 subscribers
- Either 4,000 watch hours in the last 12 months or 10 million Shorts views in the last 90 days
- Follow all of YouTube’s community and monetization guidelines
- Turn on 2-step verification for your Google account
- Have no active copyright or community strikes
If you meet these requirements, you’re ready to apply.
Step 2: Apply for Monetization
Once your channel qualifies, you can apply for monetization through YouTube Studio.
Here’s how to do it:
- Open YouTube Studio and click on the “Monetization” tab from the left menu
- Click the “Apply now” button
- Link your Google AdSense account or create a new one
- Agree to the terms and submit your application
YouTube will review your channel to make sure everything follows its rules. If everything looks good, you’ll be approved and can start making money.
Step 3: Start Making Money from Your Videos
Once you’re approved, you’ll have access to different ways to earn money on YouTube. Here are the main ones:
Ad Revenue
This is the most common way creators earn. When ads play before, during, or after your video, you get a share of the money advertisers pay. In 2025, creators get 55% of the ad revenue. If your videos get lots of views, this can add up to a nice monthly income.
YouTube Shorts Earnings
If you post Shorts (short vertical videos), you can earn money too. YouTube now shares ad revenue with Shorts creators, especially if your Shorts get over 10 million views in 90 days. This is great for creators who prefer short-form content.
Channel Memberships
You can offer paid memberships to your subscribers. Members pay a small fee each month and get special perks like exclusive content, badges, or emojis. It’s a great way to build a loyal fanbase.
Super Chat and Super Stickers
If you go live on YouTube, your viewers can buy Super Chats or Stickers to highlight their messages. This helps you earn during live streams and creates more engagement.
YouTube Shopping (Merch Shelf)
You can sell your merchandise directly through your channel. YouTube allows you to connect to platforms like Spring or Shopify, and your products will appear below your videos.
YouTube Premium Revenue
YouTube Premium is a paid subscription service. When Premium users watch your videos, you get a share of their subscription fee — even if there are no ads. It’s a quiet but steady source of income.
Step 4: Use Other Ways to Make Money Outside of YouTube
Relying only on YouTube ads might not be enough. That’s why many creators use other ways to earn money as well.
Here are some ideas:
Brand Sponsorships: Partner with companies and promote their products in your videos. This can pay very well if your content matches their audience.
Affiliate Marketing: Share product links in your video description. If someone buys through your link, you earn a commission.
Sell Courses or Services: If you’re an expert in something, you can create an online course, sell an eBook, or offer consulting.
Crowdfunding: Platforms like Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee let fans support you directly each month in exchange for exclusive content or shout-outs.
Step 5: Stay Safe and Keep Growing
Making money on YouTube is exciting, but you need to follow the rules to keep your channel safe.
- Avoid using music or clips you don’t own. This can lead to copyright issues.
- Don’t use misleading titles or thumbnails.
- Stay active with your audience by replying to comments and listening to feedback.
- Keep up with YouTube’s updates. They often change how things work.
As your channel grows, your income will too. So focus on giving value to your viewers and building a strong community.
Monetizing your YouTube channel in 2025 is not just possible — it’s more achievable than ever before. YouTube continues to reward creators who are consistent, creative, and community-focused. Whether you make long videos or Shorts, or even go live, there are many ways to earn.
So if you’re ready to turn your passion into profit, start building your channel today. Focus on your content, learn how to connect with your audience, and use every tool YouTube offers to grow.
This is your year to start making money on YouTube.
