YouTube Shorts has become one of the most powerful tools for creators to grow their audience and earn money. Since its launch in 2020, Shorts has evolved from a TikTok competitor to a fully integrated part of YouTube’s monetization ecosystem.
So, can you make money off YouTube Shorts in 2025? The answer is a resounding YES! YouTube has introduced multiple ways for creators to monetize short-form videos, making it a lucrative platform for influencers, brands, and everyday content creators.
Whether you’re new to Shorts or looking to optimize your earnings, this guide will show you how to make money from YouTube Shorts in 2025. Let’s dive in!
What Are YouTube Shorts?
YouTube Shorts are vertical, short-form videos (up to 60 seconds) that offer quick, engaging content. While YouTube has long been known for long-form videos, Shorts allow creators to reach new audiences quickly, thanks to YouTube’s powerful algorithm and global reach.
Shorts are designed for fast consumption, featuring:
- 🎥 Quick editing tools – Add text, music, and filters effortlessly.
- 🎵 Licensed music library – Access trending sounds without copyright issues.
- 🔁 Looping format – Keeps audiences watching longer, increasing engagement.
- 🌎 Built-in discoverability – YouTube’s algorithm pushes Shorts to a massive audience, even if you have zero subscribers.
But the real question is: how do you make money on YouTube Shorts? Let’s explore the best monetization strategies for 2025.
1. YouTube Shorts Monetization Through Ad Revenue
In 2023, YouTube launched the Shorts Ad Revenue Sharing Program, and by 2025, it has become one of the biggest revenue sources for Shorts creators.
How It Works
YouTube pools ad revenue from Shorts ads and distributes it among eligible creators. Creators earn 45% of the ad revenue, with the remaining 55% going to YouTube. Payouts are based on views and engagement, rather than traditional ad placement.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) – Requires 1,000 subscribers and either:
- 4,000 public watch hours (long-form videos) OR
- 10 million Shorts views in the last 90 days
- Your Shorts must comply with YouTube’s content policies (no reused or repurposed content).
2. Affiliate Marketing & Sponsored Content
If you’re wondering how to make money from YouTube Shorts outside of ad revenue, affiliate marketing and sponsorships are fantastic options.
Ways to Monetize with Brands & Affiliates
- Affiliate Links – Promote products in your Shorts and earn commissions from sales.
- Brand Sponsorships – Partner with companies to create sponsored Shorts.
- Product Reviews – Showcase brands’ products in a fun, engaging way.
- Pro Tip: Since YouTube doesn’t allow direct links in Shorts descriptions, use a pinned comment or direct viewers to a long-form video with affiliate links.
3. YouTube Super Thanks & Memberships
Monetizing YouTube Shorts isn’t limited to ads. YouTube now offers direct fan funding options, allowing viewers to financially support their favorite creators.
Super Thanks (Tips & Donations): Viewers can send tips ($2 to $50) directly through Shorts. Creators keep 70% of the revenue, while YouTube takes a 30% cut.
How to Enable Super Thanks
- Must be in the YouTube Partner Program.
- Turn on Super Thanks in YouTube Studio.
- Offer exclusive perks (badges, emojis, behind-the-scenes content) for a monthly fee.
- Great for loyal fanbases who want exclusive content.
4. Selling Products & Merchandise Through YouTube Shopping
If you have a personal brand or sell products, YouTube Shorts can drive massive e-commerce sales. Ways to Make Money Selling on YouTube:
- Sell merch – T-shirts, mugs, stickers, or digital products.
- Promote an online store – Link your Shopify or Etsy store in the video description.
- Use YouTube Shopping – Directly integrate products within your Shorts for easy purchases.
5. YouTube Shorts Creator Fund vs. New Monetization Options
Previously, YouTube had a $100 million Shorts Creator Fund, but in 2023, it was replaced by ad revenue sharing and new monetization tools. Key Changes in 2025:
- The Creator Fund no longer exists – Instead, creators earn directly through ad revenue, memberships, and Super Thanks.
- More revenue streams – YouTube is focusing on direct monetization (fan funding, merch, sponsorships).
- Higher earnings potential – The new model pays significantly more than the old Shorts Fund.
If you’re serious about Shorts, join the YouTube Partner Program to unlock full monetization potential.
How Much Money Can You Make from YouTube Shorts?
Your YouTube Shorts income depends on views, engagement, and monetization strategies. Here’s what creators typically earn:
- Smaller Creators (10K–50K subscribers) – $100–$500 per month from ads.
- Mid-Tier Creators (50K–500K subscribers) – $500–$5,000 per month.
- Top YouTubers (1M+ subscribers) – $10,000+ per month from a mix of ads, sponsorships, and products.
For example, popular shorts creator Jake Fellman made over $1.2 million in a year just from Shorts ad revenue.
How BrandU Help You Making Money on Youtube
BrandU is a content monetization platform built just for you. Level up your content with our affiliate tools, educational resources, sales insights, brand partnership opportunities, and more. Start monetizing your content now.