TikTok has grown from a fun video-sharing app into a massive global platform with over 1.7 billion users in 2025. But it’s not just for dance trends and lip-syncs anymore—it’s now a major way to make real money online.
With the right strategy, you can turn your creativity into cash. Whether you’re a new creator or already growing your audience, there are more ways than ever to earn. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 15 tested and effective ways to make money on TikTok in 2025.
What Is TikTok?
TikTok is a free social media app where users can create, share, and watch short videos, usually set to music or sound clips. Videos on TikTok can range from 15 seconds to 10 minutes and often feature comedy, dance, tutorials, storytelling, product reviews, and more.
People of all ages use TikTok, but it’s especially popular among Gen Z and Millennials. It’s now used worldwide for entertainment, education, product discovery, and even as a search engine.
Is It Still Possible to Make Money on TikTok in 2025?
Yes—and it might be even easier now. TikTok has expanded its monetization tools, launched new creator programs, and added built-in shopping features. Here’s why it’s still one of the best platforms to earn:
- The TikTok Creativity Program rewards quality content.
- TikTok Shop lets creators sell directly inside the app.
- Brands are still investing heavily in influencer marketing.
According to a 2025 report from Influencer Marketing Hub:
Over 68% of TikTok creators say they now earn money from multiple sources on the platform.
Some creators make $100 to $10,000+ per month, depending on their audience, niche, and consistency.
15 Effective Ways to Make Money on TikTok in 2025
1. TikTok Creator Fund
This is TikTok’s official program that pays you based on video views and engagement.
- Eligibility: 10K+ followers, 100K+ video views in last 30 days, 18+ years old
- Earnings: $0.02 to $0.04 per 1,000 views
2. TikTok Creativity Program (Beta)
A newer program that pays more for original long-form videos (1+ minute).
- Better rates than the Creator Fund
- Encourages storytelling, tutorials, and educational content
3. Brand Sponsorships and Influencer Deals
Brands pay creators to promote products or services in videos.
- Rates: $200 to $20,000+ per post
- Use platforms like Collabstr, AspireIQ, or Influence.co to connect with brands
4. Affiliate Marketing
Share affiliate links to products and earn a cut of each sale.
- Works well with beauty, fashion, tech, and Amazon finds
- Use Linktree or Beacons.ai to list links in bio
5. Selling Your Own Products or Merch
Sell custom merchandise, digital art, or handmade items.
- Use TikTok Shop, Shopify, or Printful to fulfill orders
- Show off your products in entertaining, authentic videos
6. Live Gifting and Tips
Go live and let viewers send you coins (virtual gifts) that convert to real money.
- The more engaging your live, the more gifts you get
- TikTok keeps a percentage, and you can withdraw the rest
7. TikTok Shop Affiliate Program
Promote products from other sellers and earn commission from each sale.
- No need to own products
- Use trending items, honest reviews, and tutorial videos to boost sales
8. Offering Services (Coaching, Art, Editing, etc.)
Promote your skills—whether it’s life coaching, art commissions, or video editing.
- Direct people to your portfolio, email, or booking link
- Share testimonials, before-and-after clips, or client results
9. Driving Traffic to YouTube or Blogs
Use TikTok as a funnel to build other income streams.
- Grow your YouTube channel or blog
- Monetize with AdSense, sponsorships, and product sales
10. Launching a Paid Subscription or Membership
Offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes clips, or coaching via:
- Patreon
- Ko-fi
- TikTok Series (premium content within TikTok)
11. Selling Digital Products (eBooks, Courses, Presets)
Create once, sell forever.
- Ideas: eBooks, Canva templates, Lightroom presets, Notion planners
- Host on Gumroad, Payhip, or Teachable
12. Creating Viral Sponsored Challenges
Partner with brands to launch a branded challenge.
- Brands pay you to start and promote a trend
- High potential for reach and future collaborations
13. User-Generated Content (UGC) Creation
Make videos for brands to use in their ads—even if you don’t post them.
- No big following needed
- Apply on Billo, JoinBrands, or pitch directly
14. Freelancing TikTok Growth Services
Help others grow on TikTok by offering:
- Content strategies
- Hashtag research
- Caption writing
- Video editing
15. License Your Content
Sell your viral videos to media outlets, brands, or content agencies.
- Platforms: Jukin Media, ViralHog
- Great for meme pages, funny moments, or impressive visuals
Who Qualifies To Be Paid on TikTok?
To earn money directly from TikTok, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements based on the specific monetization program you’re applying for. This is TikTok’s main program that pays creators based on video performance, including views, engagement, and watch time.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have at least 10,000 followers
- Have at least 100,000 video views in the past 30 days
- Be located in an eligible country (e.g., US, UK, Canada, Australia)
- Post original content at least one minute long
- Comply with TikTok’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Service
Who Is Your TikTok Audience?
Your TikTok audience refers to the specific group of people who are most likely to watch, enjoy, and engage with your content. Knowing your audience is key to growing your following and making content that connects.
There’s no single formula for success on TikTok, but knowing your audience and staying on top of platform trends can help you build a following you can monetize consistently.
Tips to Grow Faster and Monetize Better
- Optimize Your Bio: Clear description + call-to-action link
- Use Hooks: Capture attention in the first 3 seconds
- Post Consistently: Aim for 3–5 times a week
- Jump on Trends: Use trending sounds, effects, and hashtags
- Engage With Comments: Builds community and increases reach
📊 Mid-Article Chart: TikTok Monetization Trends (2020–2025)
| Year | Avg Monthly Creators Earning $1K+ | Most Popular Monetization Method |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 10,000 | Brand Sponsorships |
| 2021 | 35,000 | Affiliate Marketing |
| 2022 | 60,000 | TikTok Shop |
| 2023 | 90,000 | Live Gifting & UGC |
| 2025 | 150,000+ | Creativity Program + Digital Products |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not disclosing sponsored content (violates FTC rules)
- Focusing only on followers instead of engagement
- Overposting low-quality videos just to stay active
- Ignoring analytics (you need to know what works)
- Breaking TikTok’s rules (can get you shadowbanned)
Tools and Resources to Help You Earn
- TikTok Analytics: Track video performance, follower growth
- InVideo / CapCut: Easy video editing
- Link-in-bio Tools: Linktree, Beacons, Stan.store
- Affiliate Platforms: Amazon Associates, ShareASale, Impact
- Creator Platforms: Collabstr, AspireIQ, Billo, Patreon
FAQs About Making Money on TikTok in 2025
How many followers do I need to start earning on TikTok?
Some programs (like the Creator Fund) require 10,000 followers. But for affiliate marketing or UGC, you can earn with fewer.
Can small creators make money too?
Absolutely. Small creators often have higher engagement and can still land brand deals or sell digital products.
What’s the fastest way to monetize a new TikTok account?
Start with affiliate marketing and TikTok Shop—you don’t need a huge following, just quality videos and a focused niche.
Do I need to show my face to make money on TikTok?
No. Many faceless creators earn well by using voiceovers, animations, or screen recordings.
How to make money on TikTok LIVE?
Going live on TikTok isn’t just for fun—it’s also a powerful way to earn real money. When you go live, your followers can send you virtual gifts (like roses, lions, or rockets) using TikTok coins. You can convert these gifts into Diamonds, which can then be redeemed for real cash.
How much does TikTok pay per 1,000 views?
TikTok’s direct payments to creators via the Creator Rewards Program (formerly Creativity Program Beta) typically range from $0.40 to $1.00 per 1,000 views, depending on content quality, watch time, engagement, and audience location.
Conclusion
In 2025, making money on TikTok is not only possible—it’s more accessible than ever. With tools like TikTok Shop, the Creativity Program, and affiliate marketing, you can start earning even with a small audience.
Try out the strategies that fit your style and niche. Keep experimenting, stay consistent, and most importantly, offer value to your viewers.
Your creativity is your currency—and TikTok is your marketplace. Start building your income today.
