YouTube tightens rules for monetization: What you need to know

YouTube, the world’s largest video-sharing platform, has tightened its rules for monetization. The new policy intends to maintain a friendly environment for advertisers while helping users understand the platform’s guidelines and expectations. Therefore, if you’re a creator or advertiser on YouTube, you need to understand the new rules; otherwise, your monetization privileges could be revoked without warning.

The new Standard YouTube Partner Program (YPP) requires channels to have at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months to be eligible for monetization. The purpose of this is to ensure that YouTube channels should not rely on ad revenue entirely, so small creators can still have growth opportunities to create content. However, experienced creators may still generate revenue through other means, such as crowdfunding or merchandise.

The eligibility requirements won’t affect channels that already qualify to participate in the YPP. To enable monetization for your channel, go to YouTube Studio, select monetization, and then follow the steps to accept the terms and conditions of the YPP. Also, you have to verify your identity and address to provide sensitive information to YouTube for payment purposes.

YouTube added that as part of the new rules, channels will have to follow the “Community Guidelines” and “Terms of Service” to monetize their content. This means YouTube will actively review videos from monetized channels for advertiser-friendliness and protection. The company is using an advanced machine-learning algorithm and human reviewers to evaluate content adequately on its platform.

Creators have to ensure advertisements do not appear on inappropriate or hateful content that goes against the guidelines and anti-harassment policy. As a result, the platform will limit advertisers’ ability to target the most violent or violent themes, such as sexually suggestive imagery, controversial issues, or hate speech.

In conclusion, YouTube wants to keep its platform safe and fair for everyone, and the current policy changes reflect that. Although you might find it difficult to meet the new guidelines for monetization, it’s worth noting the positive effect it will have on your channel’s growth. Ensure you continue following YouTube’s rules to avoid receiving any strikes that could result in demonetization or channel termination.