For years, TikTok creators have voiced concerns about low payouts from the original Creator Fund—even after generating millions of views. In response, TikTok overhauled its monetization strategy by launching a more rewarding system: the TikTok Creativity Program (previously referred to as the Creator Rewards Program). This revamped initiative aims to better compensate creators for original, engaging, and longer-form video content.
But how much more can creators actually earn under this new system? And what exactly are the eligibility requirements? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from qualifying criteria to the inner workings of the program and potential payouts.
🧠 What Is the TikTok Creativity Program?
The TikTok Creativity Program is TikTok’s upgraded monetization platform designed to replace the now-retired Creator Fund. Instead of rewarding creators with fixed, low payouts, this program introduces dynamic earnings based on video performance metrics like originality, watch duration, engagement, and value to users.
The core emphasis is on longer videos—specifically content that’s over one minute in length. TikTok is evolving beyond quick, 15-second entertainment bites and nudging creators toward more immersive storytelling. The Creativity Program aligns with that goal by incentivizing creators who keep viewers watching, reacting, and sharing.
🆚 How It Differs from the Creator Fund:
- Minimum video length of 1 minute (vs. no time requirement before)
- Higher earning potential based on engagement and retention
- Dynamic payouts instead of fixed CPMs
- Original content requirement for monetization eligibility
- Focus on quality, not just quantity of views
✅ Eligibility Requirements for the TikTok Creativity Program
To ensure quality standards and meaningful participation, TikTok enforces strict eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to qualify:
📋 Basic Requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old (or 19 in South Korea).
- Location: Your account must be based in an eligible country.
- Followers: A minimum of 10,000 followers is required.
- Video views: You need at least 100,000 video views in the past 30 days.
- Account type: Only personal (creator) accounts can apply—business, political, or government accounts are excluded.
- Account standing: You must have a clean record, with no history of community guideline violations.
- Video standards: Eligible content must be original, at least one minute long, and must not reuse copyrighted material.
🌍 Eligible Countries (as of now):
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- France
- Brazil
- Japan
- South Korea
TikTok is actively working on expanding the program to more regions over time.
🔄 How the TikTok Creativity Program Works
Once you’re accepted, your eligible videos can start generating income based on qualified views and engagement metrics.
🎥 What is a Qualified View?
To count as a qualified view (which is eligible for monetization), a user must:
- Watch at least 5 seconds of the video
- Discover it through the For You Page (FYP)
- Not mark the content as “Not Interested”
💰 How Are Payouts Calculated?
Payouts are not fixed and depend on multiple engagement signals:
- Total number of qualified views
- Watch time and video completion rate
- Shares, saves, likes, and comments
- Originality and how much the content drives conversation or trends
- Search discoverability and value
Unlike the Creator Fund, there’s no upper cap—creators who consistently post high-performing content can earn significantly more.
Note: Videos using copyrighted music or third-party watermarked content (e.g., reposts from YouTube or Instagram) may be disqualified from payouts.
🚀 How to Apply for the TikTok Creativity Program
Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough to join the program via the TikTok app:
📱 Application Steps:
- Open TikTok and go to your Profile.
- Tap the menu (☰) in the top-right corner.
- Select “TikTok Studio” from the list.
- Scroll to the “Creator Rewards Program” section.
- Review your eligibility status.
- If eligible, tap Apply and follow the prompts.
TikTok typically reviews applications within 72 hours. If your application is rejected, you may receive a reason and can reapply after 30 days if your status improves.
🛡️ Other Important Notes:
- Appeals are allowed within 30 days of rejection.
- Eligibility is continuously reviewed—violating guidelines can get you removed.
- Suspicious activity like fake views, bot traffic, or engagement manipulation can result in disqualification or bans.
📊 What Kind of Earnings Can You Expect?
While TikTok hasn’t publicly shared the exact earnings formula, creators have reported significantly higher payouts than under the previous Creator Fund. For example:
- Creators with 1M+ monthly views have earned hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on engagement and completion rates.
- Niche creators with lower views but strong engagement still see steady earnings from loyal followers and high-quality content.
Factors that maximize earnings include:
- Posting consistently with 1+ minute videos
- Creating series-based content that drives repeat views
- Leveraging original storytelling or tutorials
- Engaging with community comments and trends
Guide to TikTok Creativity Program Payouts: How Much Creators Earn in 2025
TikTok has become a central platform for content creators, offering massive visibility and creative freedom. Yet, for many, turning viral views into actual income has remained a challenge. To address concerns around low earnings from the original Creator Fund, TikTok revamped its monetization model by launching the TikTok Creativity Program, also known as the Creator Rewards Program. This initiative aims to boost creator earnings by focusing on long-form, high-quality, and engaging content.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down how much TikTok pays through the Creativity Program, what factors influence your earnings, how the payout system works, and what you need to do to start earning.
Payout Structure: How Much Can Creators Earn?
The payout system under the TikTok Creativity Program is calculated using Revenue Per Mille (RPM), which is the revenue generated per 1,000 qualified views.
RPM Ranges and Potential Earnings
- Base RPM: Creators typically earn between $4 to $8 per 1,000 qualified views.
- Average Earnings: A video with 1 million qualified views could earn between $100 to $600.
- High-Engagement Videos: Videos with strong retention and interaction can earn $1,000 or more per million views.
This model means creators have greater earning potential compared to the flat-rate payouts under the Creator Fund, where even viral videos often resulted in low compensation.
What Are Qualified Views?
Only certain views count toward earnings. TikTok has implemented strict standards to determine which views are considered “qualified.”
Criteria for Qualified Views
- Must originate from the For You page.
- Must last at least five seconds.
- Must come from unique viewers (repeat views from the same user are not counted multiple times).
- Cannot be boosted via paid promotions or ad campaigns.
- Cannot be marked as “Not Interested” by viewers.
A video must receive a minimum of 1,000 qualified views before any revenue is generated.
What Factors Influence TikTok Earnings?
TikTok evaluates multiple elements to calculate creator earnings. Here are the primary factors that influence your payout:
1. Play Duration / Watch Time
Videos that retain viewers longer perform better. TikTok values content that keeps users engaged, and longer watch times directly contribute to a higher RPM.
2. Engagement Rate
The more your audience interacts with your content, the more valuable TikTok considers it. Engagement includes:
- Likes
- Comments
- Shares
- Saves
Higher engagement typically results in more visibility, and therefore, more qualified views.
3. Originality
TikTok rewards creators who publish unique and original content. Videos that heavily borrow or repurpose others’ work, including Duets and Stitches with minimal effort, are often disqualified from monetization.
4. Search Value and SEO
Videos that align with trending topics or are optimized with relevant hashtags, keywords, and compelling captions are more likely to be discovered via search. Higher discoverability translates into more views and better payouts.
5. Audience Retention
If viewers watch your video to completion or rewatch it, it significantly boosts your earnings potential. TikTok’s algorithm tracks how long users stay on your content and how much of the video they consume.
Payment Process: How and When Creators Get Paid
TikTok uses a secure payment process handled via Hyperwallet by PayPal. Earnings from the TikTok Creativity Program are processed monthly.
Payment Workflow
- Minimum Withdrawal: You must have at least $50 in your account to initiate a payout.
- Payment Date: Earnings are paid out on the 15th of every month.
- Currency: Payouts are made in local currency, though fluctuations may occur due to exchange rates and fees.
- Balance Expiry: If funds remain unclaimed for two years, they will be forfeited.
Creators are encouraged to regularly check their TikTok Studio dashboard to track balances, earnings reports, and payout eligibility.
Key Differences from the Creator Fund
| Feature | Creator Fund | Creativity Program |
|---|---|---|
| Video Length | No minimum | Minimum 1 minute |
| Payout Model | Fixed, low RPM | Dynamic RPM based on performance |
| Earnings | Low and inconsistent | Higher, scalable with engagement |
| Engagement Factor | Less significant | Highly impactful |
| Originality Required | Not strict | Strict originality criteria |
How to Maximize Your Earnings
To get the most out of the TikTok Creativity Program, consider these best practices:
1. Create High-Quality, Long-Form Content
Focus on storytelling and audience value. Tutorials, vlogs, educational content, and behind-the-scenes videos typically perform well.
2. Boost Engagement
Ask questions, encourage comments, and use compelling CTAs (calls to action) to spark conversation.
3. Optimize for Search
Use trending hashtags, engaging captions, and keywords related to your niche to increase search visibility.
4. Post Consistently
Maintain a regular posting schedule. Consistency signals reliability to TikTok’s algorithm.
5. Avoid Policy Violations
Ensure all your content adheres to TikTok’s community guidelines. Violations may lead to disqualification from the program or removal of earnings.
TikTok Creativity Program vs. TikTok Creator Fund: A Detailed Comparison
TikTok has undergone major shifts in its monetization approach over the years, especially with the transition from the Creator Fund to the newer Creativity Program. Launched in 2020, the TikTok Creator Fund was designed to pay creators for their contributions to the platform. However, the program faced criticism for its low payouts and vague metrics. In response, TikTok unveiled the Creativity Program in 2023, offering more competitive and transparent earnings.
This guide breaks down the differences between the two programs to help creators determine which one best fits their content goals.
1. Content Format and Length Requirements
One of the most noticeable changes between the two programs lies in video length.
- Creator Fund: Supported monetization of all videos regardless of duration, provided they met basic engagement thresholds.
- Creativity Program: Requires videos to be at least one minute long to qualify for earnings.
Why the change? TikTok is shifting focus toward longer-form storytelling, likely to rival YouTube and drive deeper audience engagement. Short clips remain important for visibility, but they don’t earn under the new program.
Impact: Short-form creators must adapt their style to meet the one-minute rule, which may benefit those producing tutorials, narratives, or educational content.
2. Earnings and Revenue Model
The Creator Fund relied on a limited, pooled budget while the Creativity Program uses a dynamic RPM (Revenue Per Mille).
| Program | RPM (Per 1,000 Views) | Earnings Per 1M Views |
|---|---|---|
| Creator Fund | $0.20 – $0.40 | $200 – $400 |
| Creativity Program | $4.00 – $8.00+ | $400 – $1,000+ |
Key Difference: The Creativity Program isn’t bound by a static budget. Instead, it rewards creators based on real-time content performance, offering significantly higher earning potential.
Impact: Creators willing to invest in high-retention, original videos stand to earn substantially more.
3. How Payouts Are Calculated
The methods for calculating payments also differ.
- Creator Fund: Used an undisclosed formula factoring views, engagement, and authenticity. Many creators reported unpredictable payouts.
- Creativity Program: Uses “qualified views” for transparency. To qualify, views must:
- Last at least 5 seconds
- Come from unique users
- Not be flagged as “not interested”
- Be non-paid and non-boosted
Impact: Earnings now hinge on keeping viewers engaged, creating a strong incentive for high-quality, original production.
4. Eligibility Requirements
Both programs require a solid following, but the Creativity Program imposes stricter content conditions.
| Requirement | Creator Fund | Creativity Program |
| Age | 18+ | 18+ (19+ in SK) |
| Followers | 10,000+ | 10,000+ |
| Views (30 days) | 100,000+ | 100,000+ |
| Content Length | Any | 1 minute minimum |
| Region | Limited | Expanding |
Impact: Creators already meeting follower/view thresholds can transition smoothly, though content adjustments may be required.
5. Geographic Availability
Access to these programs varies by region.
- Creator Fund: Available in the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Now mostly phased out.
- Creativity Program: Live in the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Brazil, Japan, and South Korea. Italy and Spain continue under the Creator Fund.
Impact: Most major markets now rely on the Creativity Program. Creators in countries still using the Creator Fund may expect future migration.
6. Originality and Content Standards
TikTok has increased its focus on content originality under the Creativity Program.
| Content Type | Creator Fund | Creativity Program |
| Original Content | Encouraged | Mandatory |
| Short Videos (<1 min) | Eligible | Not Monetized |
| Duets & Stitches | Monetized | Not Monetized |
| Slideshows/Low-Quality | Eligible | Not Monetized |
| Paid Ads | Prohibited | Prohibited |
Impact: Recycled or derivative content no longer earns. Creators must now focus on unique, self-produced material.
7. Payment Methods and Withdrawal
Both programs use the same payout infrastructure but differ in withdrawal efficiency.
- Method: PayPal via Hyperwallet
- Minimum Withdrawal: $50 USD
- Schedule: Monthly payouts on the 15th
- Balance Expiry: 2 years of inactivity
Impact: Faster monetization under the Creativity Program makes it more rewarding, especially for active creators with consistent output.
Final Comparison: Pros and Cons
| Factor | Creator Fund | Creativity Program |
| Earnings Potential | Low | High |
| RPM | $0.20 – $0.40 | $4.00 – $8.00+ |
| Content Flexibility | Short or long videos | 1+ minute videos only |
| Originality Requirement | Moderate | Strict |
| Regional Access | Limited and declining | Expanding |
| Transparency | Low | High |
How to Boost Your Earnings with the TikTok Creator Rewards Program
Making more money through the TikTok Creator Rewards Program isn’t just about posting videos—it’s about being strategic. Since the program prioritizes longer, engaging content, creators must focus on crafting high-retention videos, optimizing their visibility, and staying consistent with posting. Here’s how you can maximize your TikTok income:
1. Focus on Longer, High-Retention Videos
To qualify for earnings under the Creator Rewards Program, your videos must be at least one minute long. Longer videos mean more opportunity to capture watch time, which is crucial for boosting your Revenue Per Mille (RPM).
- Structure your videos like a story—with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Use a strong hook within the first 3 seconds to grab attention.
- Add visual interest with captions, sound effects, and text overlays to keep people watching.
The more people watch to the end, the higher your retention score—and the better your payout.
2. Improve Visibility with Search-Optimized Content
TikTok’s algorithm heavily favors content that aligns with popular searches and user interests. That means searchable, trend-driven videos are more likely to show up on the For You page.
- Use hashtags that reflect current trends and challenges.
- Write captions that are keyword-rich and aligned with user queries.
- Leverage tools like TikTok Creator Search Insights
Optimized videos get discovered more often—leading to more qualified views and, in turn, higher earnings.
3. Stay Consistent to Build Trust and Momentum
Creators who publish frequently tend to grow faster and see better performance metrics. TikTok values regular posting, which helps you meet the 1,000 qualified views threshold more easily.
- Stick to a schedule—aim for 3–5 videos per week.
- Batch content creation to prevent content gaps.
- Use scheduling tools to automate your posts and hit peak engagement times.
A consistent presence builds audience loyalty—and keeps your videos in rotation for monetization.
4. Boost Engagement with Interactive Content
Engagement metrics—likes, comments, shares—are key to increasing your video’s reach and rewards. TikTok gives priority to videos that spark interaction.
- End your videos with a question or CTA (Call to Action) to drive comments.
- Use TikTok features like polls, Q&As, and challenges.
- Reply to audience comments using video responses to encourage more participation.
The more engaged your viewers are, the more the algorithm favors your content—leading to more earnings.
5. Jump on Trends to Expand Your Reach
Trends on TikTok are a powerful visibility tool. Whether it’s a viral sound, filter, or hashtag challenge, leveraging trends can expose your content to new viewers.
- Monitor TikTok’s trending section to spot what’s hot.
- Blend popular trends with your unique voice or niche.
- Combine viral music and storytelling for maximum impact.
Trend-based content has a higher chance of going viral—meaning more views and higher monetization potential.
6. Avoid Recycled or Low-Value Content
TikTok emphasizes originality and quality. If your content is low-effort, heavily promotional, or repurposed, it may be ineligible for monetization.
- Don’t rely on Duets, Stitches, or reposted clips from other platforms.
- Shoot videos in HD—720p resolution or higher is preferred.
- Use built-in TikTok tools to add text, effects, and polish for a professional finish.
Original, high-quality content not only earns more—it builds your long-term credibility.
7. Experiment with Video Formats to Keep It Fresh
To avoid stagnation, try out various content styles. Testing different formats helps identify what works best with your audience—and can significantly increase RPM.
- Post how-to videos, storytime content, and educational clips.
- Try behind-the-scenes glimpses, reaction videos, or TikTok series.
- Regularly review your analytics to understand what types of videos perform best.
Diversifying your content keeps your feed exciting and attracts broader audiences.
🔑 Final Takeaway: Is the TikTok Creativity Program Worth It?
Absolutely—if you create original, engaging, and longer videos, the TikTok Creativity Program offers a much-needed improvement in how creators are rewarded. It’s TikTok’s strongest move yet toward helping creators build sustainable income while maintaining authenticity and storytelling quality.
This shift from quantity to quality reflects a larger trend in content marketing—and it’s an opportunity smart creators can capitalize on.
🙋♂️ Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I apply to the program?
If rejected, you can reapply every 30 days, provided you meet all criteria.
Can I monetize older videos?
Only videos posted after enrollment in the program are eligible for monetization.
Do views from outside the FYP count?
No—only For You Page (FYP) views are considered “qualified.”
Is there a minimum payout threshold?
Yes, but TikTok hasn’t disclosed the exact amount. Typically, earnings accumulate and can be withdrawn after reaching a minimum threshold (e.g., $10–$50 depending on region).
Can I join the program from any country?
A: The program is currently limited to select countries, including the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Brazil, Japan, and South Korea. Expansion is expected.
What if my video has 999 qualified views?
A: You won’t earn anything until the video crosses the 1,000 qualified view threshold.
Can business accounts join the Creativity Program?
A: No, only personal creator accounts are eligible. Business, political, and government accounts are excluded.
Can I reapply if rejected?
A: Yes. If your application is denied, you can reapply after 30 days, provided your account meets all eligibility requirements.