YouTube Monetization Requirements 2026 — 1000 Subscribers, 4000 Hours Explained

Updated 02 Nov 2026 · 2 min read · by smmgreata team

To earn from ads on YouTube you need to join the YouTube Partner Program. Check your progress with our free monetization checker.

Requirements

• Ad revenue: 1,000 subscribers + 4,000 public watch hours in 12 months, or 1,000 subscribers + 10 million public Shorts views in 90 days.
• Fan funding (memberships, Super Thanks, Shopping): 500 subscribers, 3 public uploads in 90 days, and 3,000 watch hours in 12 months or 3 million Shorts views in 90 days.
• Follow the community guidelines, have 2-step verification and an AdSense account.

Reach 4,000 hours faster

1. Make videos 8–15 minutes long on topics people search for.
2. Build playlists and end screens so viewers watch several videos.
3. Stream live and keep the replays public.
4. Use Shorts as trailers that link to your long videos.

Want help with the last stretch? We offer managed monetization packages with a guarantee.