10 Proven Ways Creators Make Money on TikTok in 2026

Content Creators have more ways than ever to turn their hard work into real income, and TikTok remains one of the strongest platforms for doing it. Now that the app's owners have struck a deal to create a new U.S. TikTok, Creators can rest easy knowing their efforts on the platform will continue to pay off.

So why is TikTok still the go-to for monetization? Three big reasons. 

First, it has a massive, highly engaged global audience of nearly 2 billion users. Second, its algorithm can pair your content with exactly the right viewers, giving even smaller Creators the chance to go viral. And third, the platform offers a growing ecosystem of income streams, so you can mix and match strategies instead of relying on just one.

Creators can earn directly through TikTok's own programs, all with a low barrier to entry, or use the platform to drive revenue off-app through brand deals, affiliate marketing, and more. With so many options, though, it can be tough to figure out which strategy is right for you. 

This guide breaks down 10 of the top ways to monetize your TikTok presence this year, how each one works, and how to get started.

1. TikTok Creator Rewards Program

The TikTok Creator Rewards Program is a monetization tool that pays eligible creators for producing high-quality, original, longer videos (over 1 minute) that perform well. It replaced the platform’s previous monetization program, Creator Fund.

How It Works

These performance-based payouts are tied to what TikTok calls qualified views, which are unique video views from the For You feed. Qualified views can’t be fraudulent, paid, disliked, promoted or artificial, and must last at least five seconds. 

The payouts kick in as soon as a video generates 1,000 qualified For You feed views, and the platform rewards creators for every 1,000 qualified views (also known as RPM). It also offers additional rewards for content TikTok deems high-quality, meaning the video is:

• Well-crafted: produced in 1080p or higher, with clear visuals and polished editing
• Original: filmed, designed and produced by the creator. Duets and Stitches don’t qualify. 
• Engaging: encourages comments, shares, and likes
• Expert and niche: dives deep into specific subjects (think: Alaskan flyfishing, gluten-free baking, short-term rental management)
• Consistent: filmed by a creator who regularly posts high-quality, long-form videos that maintain audience interest and boost engagement metrics
• Compelling: has a high-retention rate, with many viewers watching for the full duration

Why Creators Like This Method

The Creator Rewards Program offers significantly higher monetization potential than TikTok’s previous initiatives, and offers creators the chance to earn money directly, unlike the extra work of managing brand partnerships and securing sponsorships. The average RPM ranges from $0.40 to $1.00 per 1,000 qualified views. 

For context, a video with 1 million qualified views could earn $400–$1,000. Most Creators with consistent output report earning $500–$2,000/month from this program alone.

Getting Started with the TikTok Creator Rewards Program

Apply within TikTok Studio to join the program. You will need at least 10,000 followers and your videos should have at least 100,000 video views in the last 30 days to qualify. Check out the other eligibility requirements here. You'll receive a reply within approximately 3 days of submitting your application.

2. TikTok LIVE Gifts and Diamonds

TikTok gifting is an in-app feature that allows fans to send virtual gifts to their favorite creators during LIVE streams. 

How It Works

Viewers purchase Coins, the app’s currency, and use the Coins to send a virtual gift. TikTok converts the gifts into Diamonds, which can later be redeemed by creators for real cash.

Common TikTok LIVE Gifts and What They Cost Viewers

Why Creators Like This Method

LIVE Gifts are an easier way to earn direct income without time-intensive video production and editing. Take, for example, Australian TikToker Jakey Boehm. The “sleepfluencer” has earned as much as $50,000 a month by encouraging viewers to disrupt his sleep by sending gifts that are tied to loud sounds and lights.

However, creators won’t rake in gifts simply by going LIVE and hoping for the best. Without a shtick like Boehm’s or becoming an NPC streamer, make sure you do the following to maximize your gifts:

• Thank Gifters: Acknowledge them by name and show heartfelt appreciation. Recognition boosts repeat gifting.
• Set Goals: Give viewers a reason to send gifts by utilizing the platform’s Live Goals feature (e.g., “If we hit 100 Diamonds tonight, I'll play my new song.”)
• Make LIVES Interactive: Ask your audience questions and respond directly to comments. Try issuing a challenge or playing mini-games. Or use TikTok’s in-app tools to run Q&As and Polls. 
• Invite Guests: Collaborate with other creators to bring in new audiences. Use TikTok’s Co-host feature to split your screen with up to three other creators, or Multi-guest to invite up to 8 guests.
• Maintain Consistency: Creators who stream at regular times (and when their audience is most likely to be online) build loyal followers who are more likely to gift.

While top earners like Boehm are outliers, Creators who stream regularly can typically earn $50–$500 per session, depending on audience size and engagement.

Getting Started with TikTok LIVE Gifts

To start receiving gifts, launch a LIVE stream, tap the Settings icon, find the LIVE Gifts option, and toggle it to On. Unlike TikTok’s other monetization tools, you don’t have to have a minimum number of followers or video views to turn on LIVE Gifts, but you have to meet the app’s eligibility requirements.

3. TikTok Series and Paid Subscriptions

Think of TikTok Series and Subscriptions as a way for creators to sell premium content without the hassle of using an outside platform. 

How It Works

With TikTok Series, creators can package tutorials, lessons, behind-the-scenes content, long-form storytelling, and curated lists or reviews into a single series that viewers can unlock for a one-time fee of $0.99 to $189.99. It gets them access to up to 80 videos, ranging from 30 seconds to 20 minutes each.

Similar to Patreon, Instagram Subscriptions, and YouTube Channel Memberships, TikTok Subscription allows creators to offer exclusive content to paying subscribers. For a recurring monthly payment that typically ranges from $2.99 to $99.99, subscribers get access to exclusive videos and LIVE sessions, custom stickers and badges, and a dedicated communication channel called Sub Space.

Why Creators Like This Method

Selling premium in-app content offers creators a predictable revenue stream and deeper audience engagement, since exclusive access encourages a sense of community and belonging. The Sub Space communication channel enables creators to connect with their audience more personally, building deeper connections and getting feedback that helps you plan future content and income opportunities.

A Creator with 500 active subscribers at $4.99/month generates roughly $2,500/month before TikTok's cut.

Getting Started with TikTok Series and Subscriptions

Set up TikTok Series within TikTok Studio. You’ll need 10,000 or more followers and 1,000 or more video views in the last 30 days, and to meet the app’s other eligibility requirements. 

For TikTok Subscription, you must have at least 10,000 followers and over 100,000 video views in the past 30 days. Eligible creators can enable this feature by going to Creator Tools, then  Subscriptions, to set up price tiers, custom perks, badges, and exclusive emotes. 

4. TikTok Shop Affiliate Commissions

TikTok Shop is one of the fastest-growing e-commerce platforms, projected to exceed $20 billion in U.S. sales in 2026. Creators can now earn a piece of that massive pie thanks to TikTok’s affiliate commissions program, which allows them to partner with brands to promote the brand’s TikTok Shop products.

How It Works

From cosmetic companies like e.l.f. to canned water brand Liquid Death, savvy sellers have realized that they can rack up revenue by encouraging creators to share the products in their videos or LIVE feeds, with a direct link to the product in TikTok Shop.

It’s a win-win-win. The brand gets immediate sales and expands its customer base, TikTok takes a cut, and creators earn a commission on each sale, ranging from 5% to 80%. 

Why Creators Like This Method

It’s extremely easy to take advantage of TikTok’s affiliate program. Creators don’t have to worry about inventory, fulfillment, or customer support duties, since that’s the job of the seller. 

There’s not much research required either. The platform provides information on trending products, how often each product sells and the commission you can earn. You can even see videos that other creators have made about each product.

Commission rates vary widely, but Creators promoting trending products in beauty and wellness often report earning $200–$2,000/month from affiliate sales.

Getting Started with TikTok Shop Affiliate

You need at least 5,000 followers (or in some cases, 1,000) to become an affiliate. Applicants must meet the app’s eligibility requirements, pass identity verification and be based in the U.S. 

Apply in TikTok Studio. Once you’re approved, you get immediate access to the Product Marketplace, where you can request samples and select items to promote.

5. Selling Your Own Products with TikTok Shop

Creators who don’t mind more work can also take advantage of TikTok Shop’s massive sales potential by offering their own goods on the app. 

How It Works

Compared to some e-commerce platforms, TikTok makes it fairly easy to set up shop. After becoming a verified seller, simply add your products (with great visuals and descriptions), link to your bank account, and then promote them through engaging short videos, LIVEs, or creator collaborations. Just like affiliate marketing, the key to success is creating compelling, authentic video content that inspires viewers to buy.

TikTok Shop generally charges sellers a 6% base commission on most merchandise orders, along with a transaction fee of approximately  3.78%. Total fees vary by category and can increase for sellers who take advantage of TikTok’s fulfillment, storage, shipment, or affiliate services. 

Beauty and skincare products, home decor, fitness gear, tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and pet accessories are some of the bestselling categories on TikTok Shop. Shoppers also love print-on-demand merchandise that features unique graphics—which is why the app’s biggest influencers like Jake Paul and Charli D'Amelio have their own merch stores full of hoodies and other goods with their signature sayings.

Why Creators Like This Method

TikTok Shop offers several advantages over other e-commerce platforms: Its massive reach gives sellers access to millions of engaged users. It offers high conversion potential, too, since the app’s algorithm matches merchandise with potential buyers. Just one viral video can turn a product into an overnight success. 

Unlike the app’s affiliate program, becoming a seller gives creators more control over branding and margins, since you can determine your own marketing, pricing and inventory.

Margins depend on your product, but Creators selling print-on-demand merch typically see $3–$10 profit per item after TikTok's fees.

Getting Started with TikTok Shop for Sellers

Visit the TikTok Seller Center to make sure you’re eligible to sell, then verify your identity with the required documents. Approval takes between 24 to 48 hours for most applicants.

6. Sponsored Brand Deals

Many brands are willing to pay top dollar for beloved ambassadors to promote their latest products, especially on TikTok, where they gain access to a massive, young and highly engaged audience. 

How It Works

The sky is the limit when it comes to sponsored brand deals that are arranged off-app. Creators may be paid for everything from a one-off video to a months-long campaign that includes multiple LIVE sessions, ongoing video content, in-person appearances and more. 

Why Creators Like This Method

The upside is enormous. Not every creator will snag a six figure payout for a single sponsored post, like the app’s biggest stars, but even smaller influencers with a niche, dedicated following can turn TikTok into a reliable revenue stream with sponsored brand deals.

The good news for smaller creators is that brands are shifting away from chasing massive follower counts and are instead prioritizing micro-influencers (10,000–100,000 followers) and nano-influencers (1,000–10,000 followers) who offer trusted expertise and high engagement rates. 

As a general benchmark, micro-influencers (10K–100K followers) typically charge $200–$2,000 per sponsored post, while larger Creators command $5,000+.

Getting Started with Sponsored Brand Deals

Off-app brand partnerships are typically arranged in one of three ways: Inbound deals (brands reach out to creators), outbound pitching (creators reach out to brands), and via third-party sites like Collabstr, Aspire, Creator.co and Obviously that connect brands and influencers for marketing campaigns. 

7. Brand Campaigns via TikTok One

TikTok has made it even easier for creators to secure brand partnerships, thanks to TikTok One. The new platform merges TikTok Creator Marketplace, TikTok Creative Challenge, and other tools into a single, comprehensive platform for creator monetization, brand partnerships, and creative resources. 

How It Works

TikTok One is a centralized hub to help creators find and manage brand campaigns. They can browse open campaigns posted by brands, submit applications for approval, and receive notifications within the app. It provides multiple types of monetization opportunities for creators, from sponsored posts to LIVE stream shoutouts and more. 

Why Creators Like This Method

Since brand campaigns via TikTok One all take place within the app, there’s no need for external tools or emails, making management a snap. Plus, brands and creators can both easily find and secure partnerships within the app, and both parties have access to real-time performance tracking for campaigns. 

Getting Started with TikTok One

Creators can access a TikTok One account in TikTok Studio. You’ll have to meet the app’s eligibility requirements and typically need at least 10,000 followers with at least 1,000 video views in the last 30 days.

Once approved, optimize your presence with a professional, niche-focused page that highlights your value to brands. Using a clear profile photo, a concise descriptive bio, and pinned videos that showcase your top work. 

Payouts vary by campaign, but Creators report earning $100–$1,000+ per brand campaign through the platform.

8. External Affiliate Marketing

External affiliate marketing is one of the most accessible ways for TikTok creators to monetize their reach beyond the app itself. 

How It Works

Creators produce engaging, shoppable videos that drive traffic to products listed outside TikTok (like Amazon, Shopify, or brand websites) using tracking links in their bio or pinned comments. They earn commissions on sales generated from this external traffic, often leveraging link-in-bio tools like Linktree and Lnk.Bio to share multiple offers at once.

Why Creators Like This Method

Creators who use external affiliate marketing aren’t limited to brands and products listed within TikTok Shop, giving them more opportunities to earn commissions. 

Getting Started with External Affiliate Marketing

Don’t be afraid to reach out to brands that fit within your niche to propose an affiliate deal. You can also look into partnerships with some of the app’s biggest external affiliate programs, including Amazon Associates, LTK (LIKEtoKNOW.it), ShareASale, ClickBank, and CJ Affiliate (Commission Junction). 

If you’re managing several external affiliate programs at the same time, use a spreadsheet to track each program, its unique referral code, commission rates, and the destination URLs. You may also want to use link-in-Bio tools like Linktree to showcase multiple affiliate links at once. 

9. Using TikTok as a Funnel to Monetize Off-Platform

Instead of using TikTok’s in-app monetization tools, many creators prefer to use the app as a discovery engine for finding new fans and funneling them towards their own off-platform offers. 

How It Works

Aside from external affiliate marketing, the most common ways creators use TikTok to monetize off-platform include: 

• Driving Traffic to External Stores: Using "link in bio" tools to send viewers to custom websites (Shopify, Printful) for merchandise, dropshipping products, or digital goods.
• Building Email Lists: Using lead magnets (free guides, exclusive content) to entice users to click the link in bio and sign up for an email newsletter, moving the relationship off social media.
• Patreon and Membership Sites: Directing loyal followers to platforms like Patreon for exclusive, paid content, community, or monthly subscriptions.
• Educational/Coaching Sales: Using short, educational TikToks as teasers to drive users to purchase full courses, workshops, or one-on-one coaching sessions.

Why Creators Like This Method

Building a business off-platform gives creators control over their offerings and a stable income stream, since they can set their own pricing and don’t have to worry about revisions to TikTok’s payout models.  

This method is especially fruitful for people who offer coaching and consulting in niches like fitness, education, beauty, finance, and career growth, because their audience often wants more guidance than short-form video can deliver.

It also allows creators to build a multi-platform presence, using Instagram, YouTube and more, since social is a marketing tool and not a primary revenue source.  

Getting Started with Off-Platform Monetization

Here are some smart ways to make sure your content actually drives viewers offsite:

1. Optimize Your "Link in Bio.” Use services like Linktree, Koji, or Stan Store to house multiple destinations, such as a product page, blog, or sign-up form. For maximum conversions, link directly to a specific and timely offer (e.g., “50% off 1-hour coaching sessions”). 
2. Craft Content that Promotes Clicking. Create short “teaser” videos that show the result or benefit of a product, then tell viewers to click the link in your bio for the "full reveal," "full recipe," or "how-to guide.” Offer something free and valuable (e.g., a PDF, exclusive discount code, or early access to a new product) that requires an email address. Always end videos with a clear, direct Call To Action: "Grab 20% off! Click the link in bio,” and use captions that reinforce the CTA. Announce exclusive, limited-time offers that are available only during a TikTok LIVE session, urging viewers to click the link in your bio. 
3. Set Up Automated Chat. Use tools that automatically send a DM to anyone who comments a specific keyword (e.g., "INFO") on your video. This moves the interaction from public to private, where you can share your off-platform link.

10. Selling Simple Digital Products

Another easy way to monetize off-platform is by using TikTok to direct viewers towards simple digital products, such as guides, templates, recipes, downloads, or small courses.

How It Works

If you have a collection of short-form digital products that are perfect for your audience, your next steps are easy: Put the link to purchase in your bio, then create short-form videos showcasing the value of your product, such as tutorials, tips, or results. Use clear CTAs in your videos directing viewers to the link in your bio. Offer low pricing, such as $5–$20 per product, to encourage impulse buys.

Why Creators Like This Method

Offering simple digital products gives creators an opportunity to earn scalable income without inventory (unlike selling physical goods).

Getting Started with Digital Products

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of building your own site, platforms like Stan Store or Shopify make it easy to host your products and manage transactions. They also boost sales, since they make the checkout process seamless for mobile users. 

Make Monetization Work for You 

Monetizing TikTok is easier than ever, thanks in part to the platform’s efforts to help creators make money in-app, and because of the rapid growth of off-app revenue opportunities. But not every strategy will work for every creator, so focus your time on the opportunities that fit your content niche and personal goals. 

Most importantly, be authentic. Don’t pursue profits at the risk of losing your audience. After all, it’s your trusted, unique voice and the community you’ve cultivated that makes your content so valuable.