21 Ways To Make Money on TikTok (2025)

Turn your TikTok presence into a profitable business, no experience required.

By: Rachel Wells
December 6, 2024
13 minute reading
A mobile screen shows a person walking, with floating dollar coins and a growth chart on a red background

TikTok is now a huge platform for creators to make money — and not just for dancing and viral challenges. 

With options like brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, and the Creator Fund, TikTok offers more ways than ever to turn your content into income, no matter your experience level.

In fact, 2025 data shows that creators can easily earn six figures annually. Whether you're a seasoned social content creator or just starting out, the opportunities are endless.

How to set up your TikTok account for monetization

Before you start making money on TikTok, make sure your account is ready for success. It takes more than changing a few settings to monetize your account. You need to build a strong base that lets you earn money. Here’s how to get started:

1. Switch to a Pro account

Choosing a TikTok account type is the first step. To monetize your TikTok content, it's essential to switch to a Pro Account, which offers advanced features like analytics to help you understand your audience and optimize your content. Additionally, Pro Accounts provide access to monetization tools.

Steps to Switch to a Pro Account:

1. Open the TikTok app and navigate to your profile.

2. Tap the three dots (or lines) in the top right corner to access settings.

3. Select Manage Account from the settings menu.

4. Tap on Switch to Pro Account.

5. Choose between a Creator or Business account based on your objectives.

Opting for a Creator Account is generally recommended for individuals aiming to monetize through content creation, as it provides access to features like the Creator Fund and other monetization opportunities. In contrast, a Business Account is made for brands and businesses using advertising and promotional tools.

2. Meet eligibility requirements

To qualify for TikTok’s built-in monetization tools, like the Creator Fund, there are a few minimum eligibility requirements:

  • You must be at least 18 years old.

  • Your account needs at least 10,000 TikTok followers.

  • Your videos should have received a minimum of 100,000 views in the last 30 days.

  • You must adhere to TikTok’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Service.

If you’re not quite there yet, don’t worry. There are plenty of other ways to monetize your account.

3. Apply for the TikTok Creator Fund

Once you meet the requirements, apply for the TikTok Creator Fund. Here’s how:

  • Go to your settings, tap on Creator Tools, and select TikTok Creator Fund.

  • Follow the on-screen instructions to apply.

Keep in mind, the Creator Fund rewards you for every view and comment your videos earn. Want to grab attention and boost your reach? Level up your content with professional video editing services from Fiverr.

4. Add payment information

Set up your payment information to start earning from TikTok. By saving your payment details, you can cash out once you hit the payout threshold from programs like the Creator Fund or earnings from TikTok’s program, LIVE Gifts.

Here’s how:

  • Go to your account settings, and tap on Balance.

  • Click on Withdraw, and follow the prompts.

  • Link your bank account or another preferred payment method to complete the setup.

5. Optimize your profile

Optimized profiles look professional and attract TikTok followers and sponsors. If you want to work with brands, your profile should clearly state what you do and who you are. 

Add this information to your TikTok account:

  • Profile Picture: Use a clear, professional image or a logo design if you’re representing a business.

  • Bio: Be concise. Keywords should match your niche and content. For fitness enthusiasts, something like, "Helping you stay fit and motivated with daily workout tips and challenges" would be good.

  • Link: Don’t forget to include a link to your other social media accounts or a personal website, if applicable.

Following these steps will make your TikTok account standout. If you set up your account correctly, TikTok's monetization tools can help you make money online. Let’s now talk about all the ways you can make money on TikTok.

21 ways to make money on TikTok

Now that you’ve set up your profile for success, it’s time to explore the different ways you can monetize your TikTok presence. 

1. Apply for the TikTok Creator Fund

TikTok pays you for views and engagement on your videos. Once accepted, you'll earn money if people watch your content.

Requirements include:

  • Age: 18+

  • Followers: 10,000+

  • Views: 100,000+ in last 30 days

🌱 Initial investment

  • Phone or camera: $200-$1,000

  • Basic lighting: $30-$100

  • Optional: Tripod ($20-$50)

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Requires consistent content creation and engagement.

💰 Potential earnings

Earnings vary based on video views and engagement. Creators earn anywhere from a few dollars to hundreds per video, depending on performance.

2. Reach out to brands for sponsored content deals

Partnering with brands is one of the top ways to earn money on TikTok. The bigger your following, the more attractive you are to companies looking for promoters. But don't just wait around — you can actively contact brands yourself.

Key steps to get sponsored:

  1. Find brands that fit your content style.

  2. Create a simple media kit showing your followers and engagement.

  3. Send personalized messages to brands.

  4. Build trust with your audience.

When pitching to brands, be specific about your content ideas and how they'll help the company's goals. Research each brand carefully before reaching out. This shows you're serious about working together.

🌱 Initial investment

  • Time to grow followers (3-6 months)

  • Basic recording equipment ($200-500)

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. Requires experience in content creation and marketing.

💰 Potential earnings

$100 to $10,000+ per sponsored post, depending on your following and engagement rates.

3. Sign up for affiliate  programs and promote products in your videos

Affiliate marketing allows you to earn money by sharing products you love on TikTok. Every time a viewer clicks your unique link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission — turning your recommendations into real income.

Here are some ways to make affiliate content work on TikTok:

  • Join relevant affiliate programs

  • Share unique product links in videos

  • Create honest product reviews

  • Add affiliate links to your bio

  • Tell followers about sponsored partnerships

The best approach is featuring items that naturally fit your content and help your audience. For example, if you make cooking videos, promote kitchen gadgets or meal services. Focus on subscription services when possible. They can provide steady monthly income.

🌱 Initial investment

  • Products to review ($0-200)

  • Basic filming setup ($100-400)

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate. You need to understand affiliate marketing basics and promotion strategies.

💰 Potential earnings

Affiliate commissions are usually between 5% and 30% of each sale. How much you earn will depend on how well you promote the product and how many people click through your affiliate link.

4. Set up a TikTok Shop to sell your own merchandise

TikTok Shop helps creators with loyal followers sell products directly through their profile. Fans can buy your merchandise (from t-shirts to digital downloads) without leaving the app.

Here are the essential steps to launch your shop:

  • Design your products

  • Set up inventory systems

  • Create shipping processes

  • Make product showcase videos

  • Track sales and customer feedback

The key to success is regularly featuring your products in your content. Show the behind-the-scenes of making items, do product launches, and share customer reviews to build excitement. Create limited-edition drops and exclusive items to create urgency and boost sales.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Product design: $200-1,000

  • Initial inventory: $500-2,000

  • Shipping supplies: $100-300

  • Website/store setup: $0-500

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. You'll need basic social commerce and marketing skills.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Small shops: $500-2,000/month

  • Medium shops: $2,000-5,000/month

  • Large shops: $5,000-20,000+/month

5. Start hosting regular LIVE streams to receive gifts from viewers

TikTok LIVE lets you earn money through virtual gifts from viewers during real-time streams. These gifts convert to Coins, TikTok's in-app currency, which you can then turn into real money.

Tips for successful LIVE streams:

  • Schedule streams in advance

  • Host regular Q&As

  • Do live tutorials

  • Show behind-the-scenes content

  • Engage directly with viewer comments

The secret to earning more is making your streams interactive and fun. Thank gift-givers personally, respond to comments quickly, and keep the energy high. Consider setting donation goals or offering special perks to encourage gifts.

🌱 Initial investment

  • Basic lighting: $30-100

  • Microphone: $50-150

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Requires creativity and live video streaming expertise.

💰 Potential earnings

$50 to $500 per live stream, depending on your audience size and how interactive your session is.

6. Enable Video Gifts on your account to receive tips on regular videos

Video Gifts works like LIVE Gifts but for your regular uploads. Fans can send virtual tips to show support for your content, which you can convert to real money.

Requirements and setup:

  • 100,000+ followers

  • Meet TikTok's creator criteria

  • Enable the feature in settings

  • Consistent posting history

The key is making content that encourages viewer participation. When followers feel connected to your videos, they're more likely to send gifts to show appreciation. Create interactive content with polls, fun challenges, and compelling stories. Remember to thank gift-givers in your comments to build stronger connections.

🌱 Initial investment: 

  • Basic filming equipment: $200-500

  • Editing software: $0-200

  • Time building following (6-12 months)

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. Requires strong content creation skills and large following.

💰 Potential earnings

  • Small accounts: $5-20/video

  • Medium accounts: $20-100/video

  • Large accounts: $100-500+/video

  • Monthly potential: $200-5,000+ with regular posting

7. Encourage your followers to send tips

TikTok videos can generate revenue in several ways, including tips from followers. TikTok's Tip Jar lets fans send money directly to their IG profiles to support their favorite creators.

To encourage tips, focus on building a strong sense of community. Engage with your audience regularly, share valuable content, and be transparent about your goals. A simple mention in your bio or videos, letting viewers know they can tip, can do the trick.

🌱 Initial investment

None.

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Requires community management and community engagement skills. 

💰 Potential earnings

Varies based on the generosity of your followers. Some creators earn hundreds of dollars in tips monthly.

8. Create videos showcasing your own products or services

TikTok is an amazing platform for boosting your business sales through video content. Whether you're a fitness coach selling workout plans or an artist selling custom pieces, creative videos can showcase your product's value to potential customers.

Effective videos you can create include:

  • Film tutorials and how-to guides

  • Customer success stories

  • Behind-the-scenes processes

  • Real-life product demos

  • Clear calls to action (CTAs)

Create authentic content that tells a story. Instead of direct selling, focus on showing how your products solve problems or improve lives. For example, a fitness coach might share client transformation stories, while an artist could show their creative process from sketch to final piece.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Product development: $500-5,000

  • Video equipment: $200-1,000

  • Business setup costs: $500-2,000

  • Marketing materials: $200-1,000

🎯 Skill level: Intermediate to advanced. Need both content creation and business skills.

💰 Potential earnings

Unlimited potential, depending on the demand for your products or services.

9. Design and sell digital products like filters or presets

Creating digital products for TikTok and social media can be highly profitable since they don't require inventory or shipping. Popular items include custom filters, photo presets, graphic templates, and motion graphics that help other creators improve their content.

The key to selling digital items is showing their value in action. For example, demonstrate how your preset transforms a dull photo into a vibrant masterpiece, or how your motion graphics make videos more engaging. Engage with customers in your comments to build trust and gather feedback for future products.

🌱 Initial investment

  • Design software: $200-600/year

  • Learning resources: $100-500

  • Website hosting: $100-300/year

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. Requires design skills and technical knowledge.

💰 Potential earnings

Anywhere from $5 to $100+ per digital product, depending on demand and pricing.

10. Develop an online course related to your TikTok niche

Online courses are a great way to monetize your expertise, whether you're teaching video editing, TikTok growth strategies, fitness routines, or photography skills. Using TikTok to promote your course is effective because you can showcase your knowledge through engaging video previews.

Here are ways to promote your course:

  • Share quick tutorial clips

  • Post student success stories

  • Demonstrate transformation results

  • Offer free mini-lessons

  • Show behind-the-scenes content

Pick a reliable platform like Teachable or Udemy to host your course. Focus on solving specific problems your audience faces. For example, if you're teaching TikTok growth, include real case studies and actionable strategies that worked for you or your clients.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Course platform: $400-1,200/year

  • Recording equipment: $500-2,000

  • Marketing costs: $200-1,000

🎯 Skill level: Advanced. Must have deep knowledge and teaching ability.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Course sales: $50-500 per enrollment

  • Monthly potential: $1,000-20,000+

11. Offer one-on-one consulting sessions for aspiring TikTok creators

Once you've built a successful TikTok presence, you can help others do the same through personalized consulting. Many creators seek expert guidance on content strategy, audience growth, and monetization techniques.

Show your expertise by sharing valuable tips in your TikTok content. Demonstrate your knowledge through case studies and real results. For example, explain how you helped a client go from 100 to 10,000 followers, or show how your strategy improved someone's engagement rate.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Booking software: $15-50/month

  • Professional website: $200-500/year

  • Meeting tools: $15-30/month

🎯 Skill level: Advanced. Requires proven success and teaching ability.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • 30-min sessions: $50-150

  • 1-hour sessions: $100-500

  • Monthly packages: $500-2,000+

12. Create teaser content that directs viewers to your YouTube channel

Girl behind light and camera making video for TikTok

HighSocial

Use TikTok's fast-paced format to preview your longer YouTube content. This strategy helps grow both platforms while maximizing your earning potential through YouTube's monetization options.

Create compelling TikTok teasers by sharing the most interesting moments from your YouTube videos. For instance, if you have a 20-minute cooking tutorial on YouTube, share the most impressive 15 seconds on TikTok — like the final reveal or a crucial technique.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Video editing software: $200-500/year

  • Thumbnail creation tools: $100-300/year

  • Cross-platform scheduling: $15-50/month

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Basic content creation and editing needed.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • YouTube AdSense: $100-5,000+/month

  • Sponsored content: $500-10,000+/video

  • Affiliate earnings: $200-2,000+/month

13. Include a link in your bio to your monetized blog or website

Your TikTok bio can be a powerful gateway to your other monetized platforms. By creating engaging TikTok content that complements your blog or website, you can drive traffic to spaces where you have more control over monetization.

Converting TikTok viewers to website visitors requires strategic organic social promotion. For example, if your blog covers travel tips, create TikToks showing quick highlights of a destination, then mention your detailed guide in the bio. This gives viewers a reason to click through for more in-depth information.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Website hosting: $100-300/year

  • Domain name: $10-20/year

  • Content management: $200-500/year

  • SEO tools: $300-1,000/year

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Need basic website and content skills.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Ad revenue: $100-1,000+/month

  • Digital products: $500-5,000+/month

  • Affiliate marketing income: $200-2,000+/month

  • Course sales: $1,000-10,000+/month

14. Join influencer marketing platforms to connect with brands

Platforms like AspireIQ, CreatorIQ, and TikTok's Creator Marketplace simplify brand collaborations. These sites match creators with companies based on niche, following, and engagement rates. This approach removes the need for individual pitching and makes finding paid opportunities much easier.

Key success factors:

  • Build a strong creator profile

  • Keep analytics and tracking updated

  • Respond quickly to opportunities

  • Maintain consistent engagement

  • Document past collaborations

Once you're established on these platforms, opportunities often come to you. Focus on creating authentic branded content that maintains your usual style while meeting campaign requirements.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Portfolio creation: $0-200

  • Profile optimization: $0-100

  • Optional courses: $200-500

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. Need strong video promotion and analytical skills.

💰 Potential earnings

Varies by platform and brand. Creators can earn from $100 to $10,000+ per campaign, depending on their reach and engagement.

15. Participate actively in branded hashtag challenges

Branded hashtag challenges engage TikTok users and may lead to brand partnerships. Many companies promote their products, services, and campaigns with hashtag challenges. Creators can get sponsors, work together, and get noticed by these challenges, which let them show off their skills and join a viral trend.

To stand out, focus on creating unique and engaging content that aligns with the challenge's theme. Brands often spotlight the most creative entries, which could lead to increased exposure and even paid opportunities in the future.

🌱 Initial investment

None.

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Requires creativity and quick adaptation to trends.

💰 Potential earnings

While hashtag challenges don’t always offer direct payment, they significantly boost your visibility, opening the door to sponsorship deals and brand partnerships.

16. Create and list TikTok video templates on design marketplaces

Selling professional video templates on platforms like Etsy, Creative Market, and Fiverr can create a steady passive income stream. These templates help other creators produce professional-looking content quickly, from intro sequences to trending transition effects.

To create templates:

  • Research current TikTok trends

  • Design for different niches

  • Include easy customization options

  • Provide clear instructions

  • Offer bundle packages

This business model works well because creators constantly need fresh content ideas. Once you create and list a video templates, it can generate income repeatedly without additional work. 

Focus on making templates that solve common creator problems, like smooth transitions or engaging intro sequences.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Editing software: $300-1,000/year

  • Design assets: $100-500

  • Learning resources: $200-700

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. Need strong video editing skills.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Basic templates: $5-15 each

  • Premium packs: $20-50 each

  • Monthly potential: $500-5,000+

17. Set up a system for fans to request personalized video messages

Creating custom video messages through platforms like Cameo or Memmo helps monetize your personality while building stronger connections with fans. This service is particularly effective if you've built a loyal following that values personal interaction.

Make each video feel special and authentic. Whether it's birthday wishes, congratulations, or advice, focus on creating memorable moments that encourage word-of-mouth referrals and repeat customers.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Recording setup: $100-300

  • Scheduling software: $15-30/month

  • Marketing materials: $50-200

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Requires good communication skills.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Basic messages: $20-50

  • Premium content: $100-500

  • Monthly potential: $500-3,000+

18. Reach out to fellow creators for paid collaboration opportunities

Women taking selfie video for TikTok

Freepik

Working with other TikTok creators can increase your video views. Introduce your audiences to new creators and creators to your audiences to grow together. Many creators will collaborate for money. You can create sponsored content, host challenges, or work together on profitable creative projects.

Ask fellow creators in your niche how you can both benefit your respective audiences. You can do it via paid content, brand deals, or profit-sharing partnerships. Paid collaborations help you diversify your content and reach new audiences.

🌱 Initial investment

None.

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. Requires networking, creativity, and a clear understanding of collaboration opportunities.

💰 Potential earnings

Earnings depend on the type of collaboration and the agreements made with your fellow creators. Could range from shared brand deals to revenue-sharing on a project.

19. Contact media licensing agencies to sell rights to your viral content

Viral TikTok videos can generate additional income through licensing deals with agencies like ViralHog and Jukin Media. These companies help monetize your content by selling rights to TV shows, commercials, and news programs that want to feature your videos.

It's important to maintain full rights to your content before licensing. When a video goes viral, reach out to licensing agencies quickly. They can help protect your content while maximizing its earning potential through proper distribution channels.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Legal consultation: $200-500

  • Content storage: $10-50/month

  • Rights management tools: $100-300/year

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate. Requires understanding of content rights and licensing.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Small clips: $100-500

  • Viral content: $500-5,000+

  • Ongoing royalties possible

20. Launch a crowdfunding campaign for a creative project

Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, and Patreon let you fund creative projects while engaging your TikTok audience. Whether you're launching a product line or creating a film, these platforms help turn supporter enthusiasm into funding.

Successful crowdfunding campaign strategies:

  • Create compelling pitch videos

  • Offer valuable rewards tiers

  • Set realistic funding goals

  • Update supporters regularly

  • Share behind-the-scenes content

Share your progress, challenges, and victories with supporters. This builds trust and encourages others to contribute to your project.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Campaign materials: $200-1,000

  • Promotional content: $100-500

  • Reward prototypes: $500-2,000

🎯 Skill level

Intermediate to advanced. Need project management and social media marketing strategies.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Small campaigns: $1,000-5,000

  • Medium campaigns: $5,000-20,000

  • Large campaigns: $20,000-100,000+

21. Organize and promote virtual fan meetups or Q&A sessions

Virtual events offer a personal way to connect with your audience while creating a new revenue stream. These sessions can range from intimate Q&As to large-scale virtual meetups, all accessible through platforms like Zoom or Google Meet.

Event format ideas:

  • Monthly member Q&As

  • Private coaching sessions

  • Group workshops

  • Behind-the-scenes tours

  • Creative masterclasses

Focus on creating value through unique experiences that fans can't get from your regular content. Consider offering tiered access options, from group sessions to exclusive one-on-one meetings.

🌱 Initial investment:

  • Professional streaming setup: $300-800

  • Event platform subscription: $15-50/month

  • Marketing materials: $100-300

  • Event management tools: $50-200/month

🎯 Skill level

Beginner to intermediate. Requires good communication and event management.

💰 Potential earnings:

  • Group sessions: $10-50 per person

  • VIP meetings: $100-500 per session

  • Monthly memberships: $500-5,000+

Work with a freelancer to grow your TikTok account

Growing a successful TikTok account doesn't mean doing everything yourself. Fiverr connects you with experts who can accelerate your growth through specialized services:

By delegating these tasks to experienced freelancers, you can focus on content creation while leveraging professional expertise to expand your TikTok presence.

Make money on TikTok FAQs

1. How much does TikTok pay per 1000 views?

TikTok's Creator Fund rewards well-viewed and commented videos. Where you live, how engaged people are with your videos, and platform activity determine the payment per 1,000 views. The TikTok Creator Fund says creators make 2–4 cents per 1,000 views. 

This may not seem like much, but for videos with millions of views, it adds up. Remember that TikTok's Creator Fund is one way to make money. It can generate more revenue when combined with brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, and product sales.

2. How many views do you need to make money on TikTok?

To start earning from TikTok's Creator Fund, you need 10,000 followers and 100,000 video views in the last 30 days. Follow these steps to apply for the Creator Fund and start earning from video views. 

Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for the Creator Fund and start making money from your video views. However, how you make money will determine how many views you need to make substantial money. For example, brand sponsorships require high engagement and a niche audience, while affiliate marketing earnings depend on product promotion. 

Selling merchandise or digital products can be profitable even with fewer views if a loyal and engaged audience. Engagement and monetization diversity are crucial for TikTok earnings.

3. How to make money on TikTok with 1,000 followers?

Even with 1,000 followers, you can make money on TikTok in many ways. TikTok's Creator Fund may not work for you, but there are other options. Affiliate marketing is one option — by placing affiliate links in your bio or video descriptions, you can earn commissions on sales generated through your content. 

Selling your own products to your audience is another option. If you have a creative hobby or small business, telling your loyal followers about these products can boost your revenue. Join TikTok LIVE when you reach 1,000 followers to receive virtual gifts during live streams. 

You can cash in these gifts. Small brands and local businesses sponsor micro-influencers. If your niche audience likes your content, you can get brand partnerships with a smaller following.

4. How to make money on TikTok without followers?

Yes, even with no followers, you can make money on TikTok. Figuring out how to make money on TikTok without followers starts with promoting your own products and services or using paid TikTok ads. TikTok's ad platform lets you target specific audiences, so you don't need a large following to sell. You can also showcase your skills—such as photography, fitness training, or marketing—through TikTok videos, attracting clients interested in your services. Affiliate marketing also doesn't require a large following. As viewers watch your helpful product videos, you can earn affiliate sales commissions. You can add your Instagram, YouTube, and blog followers to TikTok to gain followers and make money.

Rachel Wells Author Profile Picture
About Author

Rachel Wells

Rachel Wells is a Forbes contributor covering remote work, freelancing, skill development, and AI for young professionals. She is a LinkedIn Top Voice, award-winning serial entrepreneur, and is currently launching a tech startup to help freelancers be more creative and make more money without the admin stress. When not working, she enjoys traveling to tropical islands, and eating out.