How to Monetize YouTube Shorts in 2026: Eligibility, Revenue & Growth Strategy

YouTube Shorts is the platform's short‑form video feature, competing with Instagram Reels and TikTok. Since 2023, creators can earn money from Shorts through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). In 2026, the program remains a key income source for those who create engaging, original short videos.

Monetization works differently from long‑form ads: revenue comes from a dedicated Shorts fund pool, and creators receive 45% of the revenue allocated based on their share of total Shorts views. This guide explains everything you need to know to start earning.

When I started posting Shorts in early 2025, I didn't focus on monetization – I just wanted to reach more people. After a few months, one of my Shorts crossed 500k views. That's when I checked my YPP eligibility. I had 1,200 subscribers and 11 million Shorts views in the last 90 days, so I applied and was accepted within two weeks.

Common mistake I made: I initially reused clips from other platforms with watermarks. Those Shorts were not eligible for monetization. I had to delete them and create original content. Once I switched to 100% original videos, my revenue started growing slowly but steadily.

Another creator I know focused only on trending sounds but didn't add unique value. His Shorts got views but low RPM because the content was generic. He learned to add personal commentary or original twists, which improved both viewership and revenue.

These experiences taught me that originality and consistency matter more than chasing trends blindly.

This guide is based on my own experience applying for YPP and reviewing YouTube’s official monetization documentation as of 2026.

• ✅ 1,000 subscribers – Same as long‑form monetization.
• ✅ 10 million valid public Shorts views in the last 90 days – This is the primary threshold for Shorts‑only channels. Views must come from original content; reused or borderline videos don't count.
• ✅ OR 4,000 watch hours on long‑form videos – If you also post long videos, you can qualify via the traditional route.
• ✅ Adherence to all YouTube policies – No active strikes, no reused content, and community guidelines compliance.

Once you meet these, you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program. The review usually takes a week or two.

Note: Eligibility thresholds are subject to change. Always verify the latest requirements in YouTube Studio or the official YouTube Help Center.

1. Meet the Eligibility Thresholds

   Focus on growing your subscribers and Shorts views. Create original, engaging Shorts daily or weekly. Use the YouTube Studio app to track your progress.

2. Join the YouTube Partner Program

   Go to YouTube Studio → Monetization → Apply. You'll need to agree to the terms and link an AdSense account. If you don't have one, you'll create it during the process.

3. Set Up Your AdSense Account

   Provide your personal details, tax information (PAN card for India), and bank account. Ensure your name matches your tax ID exactly to avoid delays.

4. Wait for Review

   YouTube will review your channel for policy compliance. This usually takes 1–2 weeks. You'll get an email once approved.

5. Optimize Your Shorts for Revenue

   Once accepted, your existing and future Shorts are automatically eligible. Focus on creating content that keeps viewers watching – high retention boosts your share of the revenue pool.

6. Track Earnings in Analytics

   In YouTube Studio, go to Analytics → Revenue to see your Shorts estimated revenue. Payments are made monthly once you cross the $100 threshold.

Shorts revenue comes from a creator pool: YouTube puts aside a portion of its total revenue to reward Shorts creators. You receive 45% of the revenue allocated based on your share of total Shorts views. RPM for Shorts is generally lower than long-form videos and varies significantly by audience location, content type, and advertiser demand.

For context, earnings per thousand views can differ widely – some creators report higher RPM from audiences in countries like the USA, while others see lower figures. Revenue can also fluctuate month to month based on the overall pool size.

Payment is made via AdSense once your balance reaches $100. Focus on creating valuable content rather than chasing specific RPM numbers.

• 📌 Post consistently – Aim for at least one Short per day. Consistency trains the algorithm to show your content.
• 📌 Hook viewers in the first 2 seconds – Use text, bold visuals, or questions to stop the scroll.
• 📌 Use trending sounds and topics – But add your own twist to stand out.
• 📌 Encourage engagement – Ask viewers to comment or subscribe. Higher engagement signals quality to YouTube.
• 📌 Analyze your analytics – See which Shorts perform best and make more of that type.

Remember, revenue can vary by region due to differences in advertiser demand and viewer demographics. Focus on making content that resonates with your target audience.

• ❌ Mistake 1: Using watermarks or recycled content.
  Shorts with TikTok or Instagram logos are often demonetized. Always export without watermarks and add original elements.
• ❌ Mistake 2: Ignoring the 90‑day view window.
  Only views from the last 90 days count toward the 10M requirement. If your views are old, they won't help. Solution: Keep posting fresh content.
• ❌ Mistake 3: Not checking policy compliance.
  A single copyright strike or community guideline violation can delay your YPP application. Review YouTube's policies regularly.

Example: A creator had 12M Shorts views but 60% came from a six‑month‑old viral Short. Those views didn't count. He had to generate new views, which took two more months.