YouTube has announced major changes to its eligibility requirements for the YouTube Partner Program.
In a blog post on Monday, the company outlined larger requirements in order for new members to join the program that allows creators to earn through ad revenue on the platform.
YouTube Requirements Have Doubled
YouTube says there are over 3 million creators in the partner program, and that it expects to pay out more to creators in 2027 than in 2026.
With that being the case, the company is making it more challenging to be accepted into the program.
Starting February 1, 2027, new creators hoping to apply to the program need to have at least 1,000 subscribers along with either 8,000 qualified watch hours over the last 12 months or 20 million qualified Shorts views over the last 90 days. Those requirements are double the 4,000 watch hours and 10 million views that are currently in effect.
The change does not impact anyone already in the YouTube partner program. There are also no changes to Fan Funding or shopping thresholds.
In addition to the new thresholds to join, YouTube is changing how Shorts earn ad revenue. To earn from your Shorts content, members of the program must have 10 million views over the last 90 days.
YouTube did not give a specific reasoning for the changes, simply stating that “these updates allow us to invest in new incentive programs that directly support creator growth and the many business models that work across YouTube.”
Those currently in the program will have to accept the new terms by January 31, 2027.
What do you think of these changes coming to the YouTube Partner Program? Leave your thoughts down in the comments and in the official Insider Gaming Discord.
In other news, read about GameStop considering withdrawing its bid to purchase online auction site eBay. And for even more Insider Gaming delivered directly to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.
Mike has been covering the gaming industry since 2012, and has reported on some of the largest events in the industry while also working as an investigative reporter. Outside of…
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