TikTok isn’t just a platform for entertaining videos; it’s also a place where creators can make real money.
With its massive user base and engaging content, TikTok offers multiple ways for influencers, businesses, and everyday users to generate income.
Whether you’re just starting out or already have a following, there are strategies you can use to monetize your TikTok presence.
From brand partnerships to virtual gifts, making money on TikTok is all about understanding the tools available and how to use them.
If you’re ready to turn your TikTok hobby into a side hustle – or even a full-time career – here are seven ways to start earning money.
1. Partner with brands for sponsored content
As your TikTok audience grows, brands may approach you to promote their products or services in exchange for payment.
Sponsored content is one of the most common ways influencers earn money on TikTok. To attract potential sponsors, it’s important to create engaging, authentic content that resonates with your followers.
How it works: Brands typically pay influencers to create videos featuring their products or services, and payment can vary depending on your follower count and engagement rates.
Even if you don’t have a huge following yet, micro-influencers (those with smaller, highly engaged audiences) are in demand.
2. Join the TikTok Creator Fund
TikTok’s Creator Fund is a program that allows eligible creators to earn money based on the views and engagement their content generates.
Once you meet the criteria, such as having a certain number of followers and video views, you can apply to join the fund and start earning from your content.
How it works: Earnings from the Creator Fund depend on factors like video views, engagement, and the region where your videos are viewed.
It’s a passive way to make money directly from the platform as long as you’re consistently posting high-quality content.
3. Earn tips and gifts from your audience
TikTok users can support their favorite creators by sending virtual gifts during live streams or through the “Tips” feature.
These gifts are purchased with coins, which can be converted into real money. If you’re hosting live sessions regularly, this can be a great way to earn extra income from your audience.
How it works: Viewers buy coins and use them to send you virtual gifts during live streams. You can then exchange these gifts for money.
Engaging with your audience during live streams and building a strong connection can encourage more users to support you through gifts.
4. Promote your own products or services
If you have a business or side hustle, TikTok is an excellent platform for promoting your own products or services.
Whether you sell handmade items, offer digital services, or run an online shop, TikTok’s short-form content is a great way to showcase what you offer.
How it works: Create engaging videos that demonstrate the value of your products or services. Use trending sounds, creative transitions, and behind-the-scenes content to make your offerings stand out.
You can include links in your bio to drive traffic to your website or online store.
5. Affiliate marketing
Another way to earn money on TikTok is through affiliate marketing, where you promote products from other companies and earn a commission for every sale made through your referral link.
Many creators use this method to earn passive income by recommending products they love.
How it works: Sign up for affiliate programs offered by brands or platforms like Amazon.
When you mention a product in your videos, include a referral link in your bio or video description. You’ll earn a percentage of each sale made through your link.
6. Collaborate with other creators
Collaborating with other TikTok creators can help you grow your audience and expand your reach.
By teaming up with influencers who have similar audiences, you can increase your visibility and potentially attract more brand deals or affiliate opportunities.
How it works: Look for creators in your niche and reach out to them for collaborations. This could include creating a joint video, doing a challenge together, or hosting a live stream.
Collaborations not only boost your audience but also bring new opportunities for monetization.
7. Create and sell exclusive content
If you have a loyal fanbase, consider offering exclusive content for a fee. You can use platforms like Patreon, where followers pay a subscription fee to access bonus videos, tutorials, or other special perks.
TikTok can serve as a promotional tool to drive fans to these platforms.
How it works: Promote your exclusive content by creating teasers on TikTok and sharing the benefits of subscribing to your paid content.
This can be a lucrative way to monetize your content beyond TikTok while offering extra value to your biggest fans.
Making money on TikTok takes creativity and consistency
Success on TikTok doesn’t happen overnight, but with a strong content strategy and consistent effort, you can turn your TikTok presence into a profitable endeavor.
Whether you’re working with brands, selling products, or earning from audience support, these strategies can help you maximize your earning potential on the platform.