Twitter (X) Monetization Policy: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Twitter, now rebranded as X, has evolved from a simple microblogging site into a powerful social media platform. With millions of active users, X offers numerous monetization opportunities for creators. However, you must comply with the platform’s specific rules and standards to monetise your content on X. This blog provides an in-depth look at X’s monetization policies, eligibility criteria, content standards, and actionable steps to effectively monetise your presence on X.
Eligibility Standards for Monetization on X
To participate in X’s monetization programs, creators must meet the following requirements:
- Geographical Availability: You must live in a country with X’s available monetisation programs.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Active Account: Your account must have been active for at least three months.
- Complete Profile: Ensure your profile includes a name, bio, profile picture, and header image.
- Verified Email and Security: Verify your email address and enable two-factor authentication.
- Good Standing: Your account must not have repeated violations of X’s User Agreement or Content Monetization Standards, and should not be designated as a state-affiliated media account.
- Stripe Connection and Identity Verification: Connect a verified Stripe account and complete identity verification.
- Subscription-Specific Criteria: To offer subscriptions, you need at least 500 active followers, regular posts within the last 30 days, and compliance with the Subscriptions Creator Terms.
Conduct Standards for Monetization
To maintain monetization eligibility, creators must adhere to specific conduct standards:
- Solicitation: Do not request or offer currency or engagements for illegal, unlawful, or harmful behaviour or content. This includes solicitation of sexual services or using X’s payment features for contests or promotions.
- Fraud and Deception: Do not mislead people into engaging or compensating through deceptive means.
- Platform Manipulation and Spam: Avoid behaviours that artificially inflate engagement or disrupt others’ experiences.
- Local Law Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable local laws and regulations while earning revenue on X.
Content Standards and Prohibited Content
All content on X must comply with the platform’s rules. Certain types of content are strictly prohibited from monetization:
- Illegal Activity: Content featuring illegal products or services, such as recreational drugs, prescription medications, tobacco, alcohol, gambling, and weapons, is not eligible for monetization.
- Spam and Misleading Content: Avoid spammy, misleading content, or content involving online piracy.
- Prohibited Products: Do not promote or sell products derived from endangered species.
Restricted Content Categories
Certain content categories face restricted monetization on X:
- Adult or Sexual Content: Avoid content that is overly suggestive, pornographic, or involves nudity.
- Graphic, Objectionable, and Violent Content: Refrain from posting content featuring excessive violence, shocking imagery, or crimes.
- Hate or Extremist Content: Do not post content that harasses or insults individuals or groups based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or other protected characteristics.
- Sensitive Content: Avoid content related to tragedies, conflicts, or controversial political or social issues.
- Strong Language: Do not use explicit, derogatory, or vulgar language.
Enforcement Philosophy
X enforces its monetization policies to ensure compliance:
- Eligibility Requirement Enforcement: If you do not meet the eligibility requirements, you cannot participate in monetization programs. If you initially meet the requirements but later fail to comply, X may pause or revoke your monetization privileges.
- Conduct and Content Requirement Enforcement: Violations of conduct and content standards can result in limited amplification of your account, paused or revoked monetization privileges, removal of violative content, or even permanent account suspension.
Plan of Action for Monetizing X
- Week 1-2: Preparation and Setup
- Complete your profile with a bio, profile picture, and header image.
- Verify your email and enable two-factor authentication.
- Connect a verified Stripe account and complete identity verification.
- Week 3-4: Building Engagement
- Post regularly with high-quality content.
- Engage with followers through comments and messages.
- Participate in trending discussions and use relevant hashtags.
- Month 2: Leveraging Features
- Apply for Super Follows and Ticketed Spaces.
- Enable the Tips feature on your profile.
- Offer exclusive content for subscribers.
- Month 3: Expanding Reach and Monetization
- Reach out to brands for partnerships and sponsorships.
- Promote affiliate products.
- Host and promote Ticketed Spaces effectively.
- Ongoing: Analysis and Optimization
- Use Twitter Analytics to track performance.
- Adjust your content strategy based on insights.
- Continuously engage with your audience and refine your approach.
Conclusion
Complying with X’s monetization policies is crucial for creators looking to generate income on the platform. By meeting the eligibility requirements, adhering to conduct and content standards, and following a strategic plan of action, you can unlock the full potential of X’s monetization features. Stay compliant, engage with your audience, and continuously optimize your approach to achieve long-term success on Twitter (X).
