Monetize YouTube Channel in Just 10 Simple Steps

Social Media Marketing

So, you’ve been creating content on YouTube, growing your audience, and now you’re wondering—how can I start making money from my videos? The good news is, YouTube offers multiple ways for creators to monetize their content, and the process is more straightforward than you might think.

monetize youtube channel

Whether you’re a vlogger, educator, gamer, or business owner, monetizing your channel can turn your passion into a steady income stream. But before you start earning, there are some crucial requirements and steps to follow. This guide will walk you through the 10 simple steps to YouTube monetization so you can start making money from your videos.

Table of Content:

  • 10 Simple Steps of YouTube Monetization

Step 1: Understand YouTube’s Monetization Policies

Before applying for monetization, it’s essential to understand YouTube’s rules. Your channel must comply with:

  • YouTube’s Community Guidelines – Avoid content that promotes violence, hate speech, or copyright violations. Ensure that your videos do not violate YouTube’s policies, as repeated violations can lead to strikes or even permanent suspension of monetization privileges.
  • Advertiser-Friendly Content Policies – Brands prefer family-friendly content, so steer clear of controversial topics. Advertisers typically avoid videos that include excessive profanity, adult themes, or shocking content. Ensuring that your content is ad-friendly increases the likelihood of higher CPMs (Cost Per Mille) and more revenue.
  • Copyright and Terms of Service – Only use content you have the rights to; avoid excessive reuse of copyrighted material. This includes music, images, and video clips. YouTube has a strict Content ID system that automatically detects copyrighted material, which can lead to demonetization or even legal consequences.
  • Repetitive or Reused Content – Avoid uploading low-quality, repetitive content that doesn’t provide significant value to viewers. YouTube discourages channels that simply repost existing content without original contributions.

By following these guidelines, you ensure your channel remains in good standing and eligible for long-term monetization success. Ignoring these policies can lead to demonetization or even a banned channel.

Step 2: Meet YouTube Monetization Requirements

To qualify for YouTube’s Partner Program (YPP), your channel must meet these minimum requirements:

  • 1,000 subscribers
  • 4,000 public watch hours in the last 12 months OR 10 million valid Shorts views in the last 90 days
  • Compliance with YouTube’s guidelines
Breaking Down the Requirements:
  • 1,000 subscribers: This ensures that your channel has a dedicated audience and is actively engaging with your content. Focus on organic growth through valuable content and community engagement.
  • 4,000 public watch hours in the last 12 months: Long-form content tends to help reach this goal faster. Create compelling videos that encourage viewers to watch until the end, boosting overall watch time.
  • 10 million valid Shorts views in the last 90 days: If you focus on short-form content, this is the threshold to meet. Post consistently, use trending audio, and optimize Shorts with strong hooks in the first few seconds.
  • Compliance with YouTube’s guidelines: Your content must adhere to YouTube’s policies to ensure a seamless monetization process. Avoid policy violations like misleading content, harmful activities, or excessive reuse of existing videos.

If you’re still building your audience, focus on consistent uploads, SEO optimization, and audience engagement to meet these requirements efficiently.

Step 3: Enable Two-Step Verification

YouTube requires two-step verification to enhance security. This extra layer of protection helps prevent unauthorized access and hacking attempts.

two-step verification
How to Enable Two-Step Verification:
  1. Go to Google Account Settings – Sign in to your Google Account and navigate to the Security section.
  2. Find Two-Step Verification – Scroll down to the Signing in to Google section and click on Two-Step Verification.
  3. Turn It On – Follow the on-screen instructions and click Get Started.
  4. Add Your Phone Number – Enter a phone number where you’ll receive a verification code.
  5. Choose a Verification Method – You can receive a code via text message (SMS), phone call, or use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator.
  6. Enter the Code & Confirm – Enter the verification code you receive and confirm the setup.
  7. Backup Options – Set up backup methods like backup codes or an alternate phone number in case you lose access to your primary method.
Why Is Two-Step Verification Important?
  • Prevents unauthorized logins – Even if someone gets hold of your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second verification step.
  • Protects your revenue & content – A hacked account could result in lost monetization, deleted videos, or a banned channel.
  • Enhances trust & credibility – YouTube prioritizes security, and enabling this feature keeps your account in good standing.

By enabling Two-Step Verification, you safeguard your hard work and ensure uninterrupted monetization.

Step 4: Ensure Advertiser-Friendly Content

If you want to maximize your earnings from ads, your content must be suitable for advertisers. YouTube follows strict Advertiser-Friendly Content Guidelines, and failure to adhere to them can lead to limited or no ads being shown on your videos.

User friendly advertising
What Advertisers Avoid:
  1. Excessive Profanity – Occasional mild language is acceptable, but excessive or strong profanity can lead to demonetization.
  2. Harmful or Dangerous Acts – Avoid content that depicts risky activities, violence, or dangerous challenges.
  3. Shocking or Disturbing Content – Graphic images, injury footage, or distressing scenes reduce ad suitability.
  4. Misleading or Clickbait Content – Sensationalized thumbnails and misleading titles can hurt your credibility and revenue.
  5. Controversial or Sensitive Topics – Discussions on politics, war, tragedies, or adult themes can limit ad availability.
  6. Reused or Unoriginal Content – Monetization is often denied to channels that recycle content without meaningful additions.
How to Make Your Content Advertiser-Friendly:
  • Use family-friendly language and topics – If your videos appeal to a broader audience, they are more likely to attract high-paying advertisers.
  • Keep content original and engaging – Focus on providing value through unique storytelling, tutorials, or entertainment.
  • Be transparent with your audience – Avoid misleading titles, exaggerated thumbnails, or false promises.
  • Enable Limited Ads If Necessary – If your content is borderline, YouTube may allow limited ads rather than full demonetization.

By ensuring your videos meet these criteria, you increase your chances of higher ad revenue, better audience engagement, and long-term success on YouTube.

Step 5: Set Up a Google AdSense Account

To start earning from YouTube, you must create and link a Google AdSense account. AdSense acts as the payment platform that processes ad revenue from your videos and deposits earnings into your bank account.

Steps to Set Up AdSense for YouTube:
  1. Go to Google AdSense – Visit Google AdSense and sign up.
  2. Link Your YouTube Channel – During the setup, connect your AdSense account to your YouTube channel.
  3. Provide Payment Information – Enter your banking details, tax information, and preferred payment method.
  4. Wait for Approval – Google will review your AdSense application. Approval usually takes a few days but can take longer in some cases.
  5. Set Up Payment Threshold – Payments are made once you reach the minimum payout threshold (usually $100).
 
Important Tips for AdSense Approval:
  • Ensure that your YouTube channel complies with YouTube’s monetization policies.
  • Provide accurate payment details to avoid delays in receiving your earnings.
  • Choose the correct country and currency when setting up your AdSense account.

Once approved, AdSense will start tracking your YouTube revenue, and you’ll be eligible to receive payments when your earnings reach the minimum threshold.

Step 6: Apply for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP)

Once you meet the monetization requirements, you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). Follow these steps:

  1. Open YouTube Studio – Sign in to your YouTube account and go to YouTube Studio.
  2. Go to the Monetization Section – On the left-hand menu, click on Monetization.
  3. Click “Apply Now” – If you meet the eligibility criteria, you’ll see an option to apply.
  4. Review and Accept the Terms – Read the YouTube Partner Program terms and conditions, and agree to them.
  5. Sign Up for AdSense – If you haven’t already linked an AdSense account, you’ll be prompted to do so.
  6. Submit for Review – Once everything is completed, YouTube will start reviewing your application.
Youtube Partner Program
How Long Does the Review Process Take?

The review process can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the volume of applications YouTube is handling. During this time, YouTube will check your channel’s content history, adherence to policies, and overall eligibility.

What If Your Application is Rejected?

If YouTube rejects your application, don’t worry! You will receive feedback on the reasons why, and you can reapply after 30 days. Use this time to:

  • Remove or modify videos that violate monetization policies.
  • Continue growing your subscriber base and watch hours.
  • Ensure all content is advertiser-friendly.

Once your application is approved, you’ll be eligible to monetize your videos and start earning revenue!

Step 7: Await Application Review

Once you submit your application, YouTube’s review team manually evaluates your channel. The review process typically takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the number of applications YouTube is processing.

What Happens During the Review?
  • Content Evaluation: YouTube checks your videos to ensure they follow all monetization policies and advertiser-friendly guidelines.
  • Engagement & Activity Review: They assess whether your content is engaging and unique, ensuring it provides value to viewers.
  • Policy Compliance: Any past violations or strikes on your channel could affect the decision.
What If Your Application is Rejected?

Don’t worry! If your application is denied, YouTube will provide reasons for rejection. You can take the following steps:

  • Fix Violations: Remove or edit videos that might be causing issues.
  • Improve Originality: Ensure your content is unique and not just reuploads of existing material.
  • Continue Growing Your Channel: Increase engagement and watch time to strengthen your application.

You can reapply after 30 days, giving you time to make necessary improvements.

Once approved, you’re officially a YouTube Partner, and monetization features will be enabled!

Step 8: Enable Monetization for Videos

Once accepted into the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), you need to enable monetization for your videos to start earning revenue. Here’s how you can do it:

Enable Monetization for videos
Enabling Monetization for Individual Videos:
  1. Go to YouTube Studio – Log into your YouTube account and open YouTube Studio.
  2. Select Your Videos – Navigate to the Content tab to see your uploaded videos.
  3. Enable Ads – Click on the video you want to monetize, go to the Monetization tab, and turn on ads.
  4. Choose Ad Formats – Select the types of ads you want (skippable, non-skippable, overlay, etc.).
  5. Save Changes – Click Save, and your video will now start displaying ads.
Enabling Monetization for Future Uploads:

To ensure all future videos are monetized automatically:

  1. Go to YouTube Studio > Settings.
  2. Click on Upload Defaults > Monetization.
  3. Enable Monetization and Select Ad Types.
  4. Save Changes.

By doing this, every new video you upload will have monetization enabled by default, saving you time.

How to Optimize Ads for More Revenue:

✔ Longer Videos (8+ minutes) – You can place multiple ad breaks to increase earnings.
✔ Test Different Ad Formats – Skippable ads generally perform well, but non-skippable ads can offer higher CPM.
✔ Enable Mid-Roll Ads – For longer videos, strategically placing ads can boost ad revenue without hurting viewer experience.
✔ Check Ad Performance in Analytics – Regularly analyze ad revenue data in YouTube Studio to optimize your earnings.

By enabling monetization properly, you ensure a steady stream of income from YouTube ads.

Step 9: Explore Additional Revenue Streams

Beyond ads, YouTube offers other ways to earn and diversify income sources:

1. Channel Memberships

  • Offer exclusive perks like badges, emojis, and member-only content.
  • Viewers pay a monthly subscription fee to access these benefits.

2. Super Chat & Super Stickers

  • Viewers can pay to have their messages highlighted in live chats.
  • Ideal for streamers and those engaging in live interactions.

3. YouTube Premium Revenue

  • Earn a portion of YouTube Premium subscription fees when members watch your content.
  • A great way to make money without relying on ads.

4. Merchandise Shelf

  • Sell your branded products directly from your channel.
  • Integrate with platforms like Teespring or Spreadshop.

5. Affiliate Marketing & Sponsorships

  • Promote products and earn commission on sales.
  • Partner with brands for sponsored content and collaborations.

By combining multiple revenue streams, you can maximize earnings and reduce reliance on ad revenue.

Step 10: Monitor Performance & Stay Compliant

Once monetized, keep an eye on your analytics to optimize revenue:

  • Track Ad Revenue & Watch Time via YouTube Studio to understand what’s working.
  • Stay Updated with YouTube’s Policies to avoid demonetization or strikes.
  • Engage with Your Audience – Respond to comments, conduct polls, and build a loyal community.
  • Optimize Video Titles & Thumbnails – Better SEO can improve discoverability and increase ad revenue.
  • Experiment with Content Formats – Try different video lengths, trends, and styles to maximize engagement.

By consistently analyzing and improving your content, you can ensure long-term success on YouTube.

FAQs

What are the eligibility requirements for YouTube monetization?
  • You need 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months or 10M Shorts views in the last 90 days.
  • You must comply with YouTube’s monetization policies and have an AdSense account linked.
How long does it take to get monetized on YouTube?
  • It varies. If you meet the criteria, YouTube typically reviews your application within 30 days.
  • Faster approval depends on content quality, adherence to policies, and engagement metrics.
Can I monetize my YouTube channel without 1,000 subscribers?

No, but you can still earn money through brand sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and selling digital products.

How much can I earn from YouTube monetization?
  • Earnings depend on factors like niche, audience location, ad CPM rates, and engagement.
  • On average, creators earn between $3 – $10 per 1,000 views (CPM).

Conclusion

Monetizing your YouTube channel is a real possibility if you stay dedicated and follow the right steps. While it may take time to reach the required milestones, consistency and high-quality content will get you there. Keep experimenting, engaging with your audience, and optimizing your videos for success. Over time, your channel can become a profitable venture that generates passive income.