TikTok has transformed from a short-form video app into a powerhouse platform for creators, influencers, and entrepreneurs. With over 1.5 billion users globally in 2025, it’s one of the most effective places to make money online — even without a massive following. Whether you’re a beginner or already have an audience, here are 10 proven ways to monetize TikTok this year.
1. Tap Into the TikTok Creator Fund 2.0
In 2025, TikTok upgraded its Creator Fund into a more dynamic program that rewards engagement and content quality. Unlike the earlier version, which paid based mostly on views, the new model factors in watch time, retention, and community interaction. To qualify, you typically need at least 10,000 followers and 100,000 views over the last 30 days. Once in, you’ll receive consistent payouts for high-performing videos. While it’s not a get-rich-quick method, it’s a great passive income stream when your content starts gaining momentum.
2. Go Live and Get Paid with Gifting & Tips
Live streaming is now a key income driver on TikTok. Viewers can send gifts, stickers, and virtual tips during live sessions — and creators can cash them out. Many influencers host live Q&A sessions, tutorials, or “day-in-the-life” streams to connect with their audience in real-time. The key is consistency and engagement. If you’re comfortable being live and love interacting, this is a fun and authentic way to build a loyal fanbase while earning money.
3. Monetize with Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing continues to be one of the most beginner-friendly ways to make money online. TikTok now supports clickable links for users with business accounts, making it easier than ever to promote affiliate products. Whether you’re reviewing gadgets, recommending skincare, or showing off digital tools, you can earn commissions for every sale made through your unique link. Platforms like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, and Impact offer tons of products you can promote instantly.
4. Secure Brand Sponsorships and Collaborations
Brands are pouring millions into influencer marketing, and TikTok is a top priority for them. Even small creators (10,000–50,000 followers) can score brand deals if they’re active in a specific niche. To attract brands, optimize your bio, post regularly, and keep your content aligned with your personal brand. Once you’ve built some traction, reach out to companies directly or sign up on platforms like Influencity, Collabstr, or AspireIQ to connect with sponsors looking for creators just like you.
5. Sell Products Through TikTok Shop
TikTok Shop has exploded in popularity, allowing creators to sell physical or digital products directly within the app. Whether you’re dropshipping, selling handmade crafts, or launching your own merch, TikTok makes it easy to convert followers into customers. Videos can be tagged with shoppable links, and the app’s algorithm helps promote product-based content. It’s one of the fastest-growing features on the platform in 2025 and a great way to turn creativity into sales.
6. Launch Subscription-Only Content
In response to platforms like Patreon and OnlyFans, TikTok now offers its own subscriber-based model, where fans can pay a monthly fee for exclusive content. You can offer behind-the-scenes videos, longer tutorials, early access to drops, or personal shout-outs. This is ideal for creators who have a loyal fan base and want to build a consistent monthly income. Think of it like your VIP club—only your biggest supporters are allowed in.
7. Create and Sell Digital Products
If you’re knowledgeable in a certain field—like fitness, marketing, photography, or even language learning—consider creating and selling digital products. These can include eBooks, PDFs, Notion templates, digital planners, or online courses. You can use TikTok as a funnel to drive traffic to your website or product page. It’s scalable and passive: make it once, and sell it forever. Creators in 2025 are making thousands a month this way, especially in education-focused niches.
8. Get Paid for User-Generated Content (UGC)
You don’t even need a large following to start making money through UGC creation. Brands are paying creators to produce TikTok-style videos that they can use in ads or on their own social media pages. You won’t have to post the content yourself—just create it and hand it over. UGC is booming in 2025 because it feels more authentic than traditional ads. Start by creating sample content, then pitch brands directly or list your services on UGC platforms like Billo or Trend.io.
9. Grow and Sell Niche TikTok Accounts
Believe it or not, people are flipping TikTok accounts like digital real estate. If you can grow a niche page—think pets, quotes, memes, or niche hobbies—you can sell it to a brand or creator looking to instantly tap into an audience. While TikTok doesn’t officially support account sales, it’s a thriving gray market. Just make sure to build a page with real engagement and loyal followers. Once it’s ready, you can sell through marketplaces like Fameswap or private deals.
10. Drive Traffic to Other Monetized Platforms
TikTok is amazing for getting views, but the smartest creators use it as a traffic engine for their other income sources. Send followers to your YouTube channel, newsletter, Instagram, or even a personal blog or store. By diversifying your platforms, you can build more stable and recurring revenue streams. TikTok’s algorithm gives you the reach—just make sure to guide people toward places where you have more control and monetization options.
Final Thoughts
TikTok is no longer just a place for dances and viral challenges—it’s a full-blown ecosystem for making serious money online. Whether you’re selling products, promoting brands, or offering exclusive content, the opportunities in 2025 are bigger than ever. The key is to choose a strategy that fits your strengths, stay consistent, and always engage your audience authentically. With the right approach, TikTok can go from a time-waster to your main source of income.