Detailed Guide on How to Enable YouTube Monetization from A to Z

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What is Making Money on YouTube?

Making money on YouTube is the process of generating income by uploading and growing video content on this platform. Creators can earn revenue from various sources such as ads displayed on videos, paid channel memberships, or through affiliate marketing programs and sponsorships.

When a video attracts a lot of views and engagement, YouTube shares a portion of the ad revenue with the channel owner. For long videos, you receive 55%, while for short videos (Shorts), you get 45%. To qualify for the monetization program, a channel must meet specific requirements regarding the number of subscribers and total watch time by users. Building a stable income on YouTube not only requires creativity in content but also demands a long-term channel growth strategy, persistence, and consistency.

How to Enable Monetization on YouTube: Latest Guide from A to Z

What is the YouTube Partner Program (YPP)?

The YouTube Partner Program (YPP) is YouTube's partnership program that allows you to earn money from your content. Upon joining, your channel can enable ads, earn revenue from YouTube Premium, activate Memberships, Super Chat, Super Stickers, Merch Shelf, and more. Depending on your level (Level 1 or Level 2), you will unlock specific features suited to your channel's scale.

Differences Between Level 1 and Level 2 in YouTube Monetization

Level 1:
- Requirements:
  - Reach 500 subscribers or more
  - Achieve 3,000 public watch hours in the last 12 months, or 3 million Shorts views in 90 days
  - Have uploaded 3 valid public videos in the last 90 days
  - Enable 2-step verification (2FA) and have no policy violations
- Benefits:
  - Membership & Super Chat/Super Stickers
  - Super Thanks
  - Merch Shelf (Shopping)
  - Jewels & Gifts livestream
Level 2:
- Requirements:
  - Reach 1,000 subscribers or more
  - Achieve 4,000 public watch hours in the last 12 months, or 10 million Shorts views in 90 days
  - Enable 2-step verification (2FA) and have no policy violations
- Benefits:
  - All benefits of Level 1
  - Ad revenue sharing (Display, Overlay, Skippable, etc.)
  - YouTube Premium revenue

After meeting the requirements, you will see a screen like this on the "Monetization" page

Guide to Registering for YouTube Monetization

For those working on YouTube, I believe the most anticipated milestone is earning money through views (Level 2). I felt the same way, so I waited until I met the requirements for Level 2 before registering.

Things to Note Before Clicking the Monetization Registration Button

Check your account: Remove violating videos and resolve any strikes if present.
Design your branding: Create professional and consistent banners, logos, and avatars.
Plan content schedule: Release videos regularly, at least 1 video per week, combining long videos and Shorts.
Create an AdSense account: Prepare a valid email, personal information, address, and tax details in advance.

Once you're ready, go to YouTube Studio, select the "Monetization" menu, and then click the "Apply Now" button.

Step 1: Review the Basic Terms

You should read through YouTube's terms and conditions, then confirm your agreement.

Step 2: Link to an AdSense Account

Choose to create a new account if you don’t have an AdSense account yet, or link to an existing one using your email.

Note that YouTube's policy allows only one person to own a single AdSense account.

Step 3: Wait for YouTube's Review

The review process may take a few days or even quicker. In my case, I applied on a Friday evening, and by Saturday morning, my monetization was approved. I recommend applying during the morning hours in the US, before their workday begins.

How to Enable Monetization for Videos After Becoming a YouTube Partner

YouTube Sends a Congratulations Notification for Becoming a Partner

After YouTube reviews and approves your partnership, you will receive a notification email.

Enable Monetization for Long Videos

First, go to the "Monetization" menu in YouTube Studio. Then, select the "Ads on video pages" section.
You can click the "Turn On" button in the middle of the screen to start the process of enabling ads for long videos.

Next, read and agree to the terms; it’s good to skim through them for awareness.

Then, select "Monetize all videos" and you're done.

Enable Monetization for Short Videos (Shorts)

Go to the "Monetization" menu in YouTube Studio. Then, select the "Ads on Shorts Feed" section.
Click the "Turn On" button in the middle of the screen to start the process of enabling ads for short videos.

Next, read and agree to the terms; it’s good to skim through them for awareness.

Notes When Enabling Monetization for Short Videos

Usually, right after YouTube approves your monetization, you cannot enable monetization for Shorts immediately; you’ll need to wait about 24 hours. After 24 hours, you can return and enable monetization for your short videos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I enable Level 2 as soon as I reach 1,000 subscribers?
- Yes, if you also meet the watch hours or Shorts views requirements at the same time.
Can I enable ads after meeting Level 1 requirements?
- No, Level 1 only unlocks fan funding, Super Chat, & Merchandise.
How long after approval can I start earning money?
- Immediately after approval, you can enable ads for long videos, and earnings will start being recorded. For Shorts, you usually have to wait 24 hours.
How many videos do I need to enable monetization?
- There’s no minimum video requirement. As long as your channel meets the subscriber and watch hour thresholds (1,000 subscribers & 4,000 public watch hours or 10 million Shorts views), you can enable monetization even with just 1 video.
Can I reapply if my application is rejected?
- Absolutely! You can reapply 30 days after receiving the rejection notice. Use this time to address copyright issues, community strikes, or improve content quality.
How does YouTube pay creators?
- YouTube pays through Google AdSense, based on ad impressions and interactions. Depending on your country, payments are made via bank transfer or other methods supported by AdSense, after you’ve submitted complete tax information.
Does enabling monetization help my channel rank higher?
- Not directly. However, after enabling monetization, creators often invest more in video quality, increasing engagement and watch time—indirectly improving your chances of being recommended on YouTube.
Can channels with children’s content earn money?
- Yes, but due to COPPA laws, videos targeting children don’t use personalized ads, so AdSense revenue will be lower. You can supplement income through Merchandise, sponsorships, or Super Chat to boost earnings.