TikTok Monetization Guide – Get Monetized Wisely

TikTok monetization in 2025 can become a stable and consistent source of income — as long as you choose the right approach. Today, the platform offers dozens of options for TikTok monetization: from official tools to alternative earning methods. In this article, we’ll explain how to make money on TikTok, how to enable monetization, whether you can earn money on TikTok, and which models work even in countries without built-in monetization features. 

This is an introductory article covering the overall state of TikTok monetization. Next week, we’ll publish a dedicated guide for affiliate marketers.

Different Ways to Make Money on TikTok

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to earning on TikTok. Some creators rely on official tools, while others build their income using external platforms and creative workarounds — let’s break down all the real, working methods in 2025.

What You Should Know About TikTok Monetization First

TikTok is one of the most popular social networks in the world, with over 2 billion active users. Many beginners wonder how to earn on TikTok, how to get monetized on TikTok, and whether it’s possible at all. The short answer is — yes. TikTok monetization means converting views, likes, and content into real money. But before you start earning money on TikTok, it’s important to understand the platform’s basic requirements for TikTok monetization:

• You must be at least 18 years old. Without age verification, you won’t be able to access monetization features.
• TikTok earnings depend on your engagement — views, likes, and followers. So, before monetizing TikTok, focus on growing your TikTok creator presence and defining a clear strategy to promote products or content, especially if you’re starting from scratch.

How Does TikTok Monetization Work

While content quality and creativity matter, what truly defines success, especially for marketers and affiliates — is understanding the underlying mechanics of TikTok monetization and choosing the right model that aligns with your goals, audience, and growth strategy.

TikTok Monetization Requirements for 2025

Despite the platform’s growth, the question still remains: is TikTok monetization available in CIS countries? Unfortunately, TikTok’s built-in monetization features are only officially supported in countries like the U.S. and the U.K. However, even if you don’t have access to the Creator Fund or TikTok Series, you can still earn using alternative methods. Users in regions without official support have already figured out how to earn money from TikTok by bypassing platform limitations and using affiliate links, traffic arbitrage, or building a business account.

Official monetization tools (“white” methods):

• Creativity Program (formerly Creator Fund): A TikTok’s updated program that pays creators for popular content. Requirements: 10,000+ followers, 100,000 views in the last 30 days, age 18 years, registered account in a supported country. Payments range from $0.01 to $0.04 per 1,000 views, depending on niche and geographic location. If you meet the TikTok monetization requirements 2025, this is one of the most reliable tools to start with.
• Live Gifts (donations and virtual gifts during livestreams): One of the most popular monetization opportunities on the platform. Users can send virtual gifts that are converted into “diamonds” and then real money. Requirements: 1,000+ followers and age 18+. TikTok takes a 20–30% commission; the rest goes to the TikTok creator. Top streamers can make hundreds or even thousands of dollars per stream, depending on audience engagement. This is a great example of how to get paid on TikTok through live interaction.
• TikTok Pulse (ad revenue sharing): Similar to YouTube’s ad revenue model, this lets creators earn from ads shown next to their content. Requirements: 100,000+ followers and strong engagement. TikTok handles the ad placement and shares the revenue (typically 50/50). It’s another example of monetization on TikTok through official tools.
• Subscriptions & TikTok Series: TikTok allows fans to subscribe to creators for exclusive premium content or purchase access to curated video series. These tools help creators monetize TikTok by engaging their most loyal audiences.
• Brand integrations & Creator Marketplace: This is where serious money is made. Sponsored content can pay anywhere from $200 to $10,000+ per deal, depending on your reach and niche. Many TikTok influencers use this to scale their TikTok creator earnings.
• TikTok Ads (targeted ads for affiliate marketers): More relevant for affiliates looking to drive traffic to external offers. How to earn commissions on TikTok? Use TikTok Ads to send users to affiliate links and get paid for completed actions. Just be sure to follow the rules.

Unofficial Ways to Monetize TikTok

There are also many informal, but very effective ways to monetize TikTok outside the official tools. These are especially relevant for TikTok creators in unsupported regions or affiliate marketers chasing high ROI. We don’t encourage abusing these methods — this is simply an overview of real-life TikTok monetization practices outside the platform’s ecosystem.

• Affiliate programs and CPA offers: Marketers love TikTok for its ability to drive traffic at scale and low cost. You create content, drop a link in your bio (available after 1,000 followers) or in comments, and redirect users to external landing pages. When users complete an action (like registration or purchase), you earn a payout. This is one of the best ways to make money on TikTok for affiliates. If you wonder how do you earn commission on TikTok, this is a top strategy.
• Dropshipping and eCommerce: Use TikTok as a storefront for niche products. Post demos or reviews and send users to your shop. You earn the margin from each sale. This can work well even without official TikTok monetization features — just engaging content and a clear funnel.
• Selling ads or TikTok accounts: Build themed personal accounts, grow them, and sell them to brands. Or offer direct promo deals. This method answers the question: can you earn money from TikTok without being part of its official programs?
• Getting paid for likes and views (task-based platforms): Some platforms pay users to like, follow, comment, or watch videos. This creates a mutual promotion system: one group pays for engagement, another completes the tasks for money. This can be done without built-in TikTok monetization or even followers.
  

How Many Followers Do I Need to Monetize My TikTok?

To officially monetize your TikTok account through the Creativity Program or go live for donations, you need at least 1,000–10,000 followers, depending on the tool. However, some monetization methods don’t require a specific number of followers at all.

Can You Get Monetized on TikTok with 1000 Followers?

Yes. With 1,000 followers you unlock Live features and can start accepting gifts from your audience. It’s also enough to place a clickable link in your bio, which is so important for affiliate traffic and selling products.

Who Are the Highest Paid TikTokers

In 2025, top TikTokers continue to earn millions of dollars annually. According to Forbes and other industry sources, the highest earners use a combination of:

• Ad revenue (via TikTok Pulse)
• Sponsorships and brand deals
• Merchandise and product launches
• Paid content (Series)
• Appearances in films and shows
  

Some of the top names include:

• Charli D’Amelio
• Khaby Lame
• Addison Rae
• Bella Poarch
  

What Kind of TikTok Content Gets Monetized

Not all TikTok content earns equally. Here’s what works best:

1. Original, safe content: TikTok values uniqueness. Reposts and TV clips are ineligible for monetization and may get banned. Avoid content about drugs, violence, gambling, or adult themes.
2. Attention-grabbing videos: The algorithm promotes videos that get watched and interacted with. Use a strong hook, humor, or intrigue to keep viewers engaged.
3. High-value niches: Entertainment gets views but has a young, non-paying audience. For monetization, focus on niches like:
   
   • Finance & investing
   • Business education
   • Tech & gadgets
   • Fitness & health
   • Beauty & fashion
   • Travel
   • Regional content (like life in Dubai or the U.S.)
     
4. Longer videos (1–3 min): These perform better in the Creativity Program and build deeper viewer trust.
5. Trending content with a twist: Use trending sounds and hashtags — but add your own creative spin.
   

How to Get Paid on TikTok – Withdraw Your Funds Easily

Let’s say you’ve activated monetization or earned through other means. How do you get your money?

1. Official TikTok payouts:
   • Earnings appear in the “Balance” section of your profile
   • TikTok pays in USD via international payment systems
     You must verify your identity and meet the minimum withdrawal threshold (e.g., $100)
     
2. Brand deals / affiliate income:
   • These are handled off-platform
   • Payments may come to your bank account, e-wallet, or via contract with an agency or advertiser
     
3. Task-based earnings:
   • Payouts are processed through third-party services
   • Usually sent to mobile wallets or e-payment platforms
     
4. Taxes & legal compliance:
   • Official earnings are taxable income
   • You may need to register as self-employed or report income to tax authorities
   • Many small creators skip this step, but it’s good to be aware of the legal side
     

In conclusion

There are plenty of ways to monetize TikTok — from official tools provided by the platform to alternative strategies widely used by affiliate marketers. Successful case studies prove that both beginners and experienced creators can earn real income with the right approach. Don’t be afraid to experiment: test different methods, stay consistent, and you’ll find the path that works for you.