YouTube Shorts Monetization Requirements Are Now Even Tougher With Major Partner Program Shake-Up

YouTube has just announced major changes shaking up its Partner Program, and Shorts creators have a pretty big change coming their way. The company is raising the bar for Shorts revenue sharing while adding new ways to make money.

The changes mark YouTube’s first major YPP overhaul since 2018. The company says the goal is rewarding active creators while expanding opportunities across the platform.

Shorts creators now have a much bigger number to chase

Starting February 1, 2027, new Shorts revenue requirements will kick in. Creators will need 10 million qualified Shorts views within 90 days for ads and subscription revenue sharing.

Creators below that number won’t be removed from YPP. Their long-form earnings will continue, while Shorts revenue sharing can return after crossing the threshold again.

YouTube is also planning bonuses around Shopping, brand deals, and emerging trends. More details about those programs are expected later.

Premium Lite is getting a much wider rollout

YouTube is expanding Premium Lite to every country where YouTube Premium is available. Creators will receive revenue from a dedicated subscription pool. Premium allocates 30% of net subscription revenue to creators. Premium Lite allocates 60%, with payments based on watch time and views.

New YPP applicants are also facing higher thresholds for ads and Premium revenue sharing. They will need 8,000 qualified watch hours or 20 million qualified Shorts views.

Existing YPP creators aren’t affected by those entry changes. YouTube says the new terms take effect February 1, 2027, giving creators several months to prepare.