Monetization requirements at a glance
Based on official help pages as of Oct 11, 2026. We update this when they change.
YouTube Partner Program, 500-subscriber tier
- Option 1: Subscribers: 500, Public uploads, last 90 days: 3 uploads, Public watch hours, last 12 months: 3,000 hours
- Option 2: Subscribers: 500, Public uploads, last 90 days: 3 uploads, Shorts views, last 90 days: 3,000,000 views
Unlocks: Fan funding (memberships, Super Chat and more) and YouTube Shopping
- Follow the monetization policies, turn on 2-Step Verification and link one AdSense for YouTube account.
- This tier is open in listed countries, including the US.
Source: YouTube Help: Overview of the expanded YouTube Partner Program, YouTube Help: Changes to the YouTube Partner Program
YouTube Partner Program ad revenue (current thresholds)
Applies to creators joining through Jan 31, 2027.
- Option 1: Subscribers: 1,000, Public watch hours, last 12 months: 4,000 hours
- Option 2: Subscribers: 1,000, Shorts views, last 90 days: 10,000,000 views
Unlocks: Ad revenue sharing and YouTube Premium revenue
- Watch hours from Shorts in the Shorts Feed don't count toward the 4,000 hours.
- Hitting the numbers lets you apply. A review still decides.
Source: YouTube Help: YouTube Partner Program overview & eligibility, YouTube Help: YouTube Partner Program availability
YouTube Partner Program ad revenue (from Feb 1, 2027)
Applies from Feb 1, 2027.
- Option 1: Subscribers: 1,000, Public watch hours, last 12 months: 8,000 hours
- Option 2: Subscribers: 1,000, Shorts views, last 90 days: 20,000,000 views
Unlocks: Ad revenue sharing and YouTube Premium revenue
- Applies to new creators. Channels already in YPP keep their status.
- The 500-subscriber tier (fan funding, Shopping) doesn't change.
Source: YouTube Help: Changes to the YouTube Partner Program
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