How to Make Money on YouTube Shorts in 2026 (Beginner’s Guide)

YouTube Shorts is more than just a fun way to share short videos; it’s also a way for creators to make money. YouTube has added new ways for creators to make money with Shorts in recent years, in addition to long-form content.

We’ll show you exactly how YouTube Shorts monetization works in 2026, what you need to do to qualify, and the best ways to make more money with your Shorts as a beginner.

Contents

1. What is making money from YouTube Shorts?

2. Do You Need to Join the YouTube Partner Program?

3. How to Make Money with YouTube Shorts

4. Ways to Make Money with Shorts

5. How to Make the Most Money from Your Shorts

6. Things You Shouldn’t Do

7. Last Thoughts

1. What is making money from YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts monetization refers to the different ways creators can make money from their short videos based on performance. Shorts makes money differently than regular long videos, which mostly rely on ads.

YouTube has strengthened its Shorts ecosystem since 2023, giving creators more ways to earn without depending solely on ads.

2. Do You Have to Be a YouTube Partner?

Yes, you need to be in the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) to earn directly from YouTube. To qualify in 2026, you usually need:

• 1,000 subscribers

• 4,000 hours of public watch time in the last 12 months OR

• 10 million valid public Shorts views in the last 90 days

The Shorts view requirement helps creators monetize even if their long videos don’t get many views. Once you meet the requirements and follow YouTube’s rules, you can turn on monetization.

3. How YouTube Shorts Make Money

YouTube Shorts monetization differs from long videos:

a. Sharing of Shorts Ad Revenue

YouTube shares ad revenue from Shorts watched in the Shorts Feed. Your earnings are based on views.

b. Super Thanks on Shorts

Viewers can tip creators using Super Thanks on eligible Shorts.

c. YouTube Premium Revenue

You get a portion of subscription revenue if Premium subscribers watch your Shorts.

YouTube calculates Shorts earnings based on overall performance, not traditional ads like long videos.

4. How to Make Money with Shorts

Beyond YouTube’s built-in revenue sharing, creators can earn in other ways:

1. Brand Deals & Sponsorships – Companies may pay you to feature their products or services, even in 15–30 second Shorts.

2. Affiliate Marketing – Add affiliate links in your Shorts description or linked content and earn commissions on sales.

3. Merchandise – Promote and sell branded items like T-shirts, mugs, or gear.

4. Driving Traffic to Other Channels – Use Shorts to direct viewers to your long videos, blog, or social accounts for additional income.

5. Ways to Get the Most Money from Your Shorts

a. Post Consistently

Upload often — daily or several times a week — to increase your chances of going viral.

b. Follow Trends

Jump on trending sounds and topics quickly to get more views and reach.

c. Optimize Watch Time

Longer watch times help YouTube recommend your Shorts to more viewers.

d. Promote on Other Platforms

Share Shorts on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Pinterest to expand your audience.

e. Clear CTAs

Encourage viewers to like, subscribe, or follow to boost engagement.

6. Things You Shouldn’t Do

Avoid these common mistakes:

❌ Posting randomly — Shorts favor consistent uploads.
❌ Ignoring analytics — Check what works and adjust.
❌ Copying others exactly — Always add your unique spin.
❌ Not optimizing titles or descriptions — Keywords matter even for Shorts.

Staying away from these mistakes improves your chances of ranking and earning.

7. Last Thoughts

YouTube Shorts monetization is evolving rapidly. The key principles remain: create content people enjoy, make it discoverable, and explore multiple revenue streams.

In 2026, Shorts is a real opportunity for new creators and those looking to expand beyond long-form videos. Experiment, track your analytics, and stay consistent — your Shorts income can grow steadily over time.