YouTube Shorts monetization eligibility depends not only on views but also on content quality and originality.
YouTube Shorts have become one of the fastest ways to grow a channel, but monetizing Shorts in 2026 follows a stricter and more detailed review process compared to long-form videos.
Many creators reach the required views but still fail to get monetization because Shorts monetization focuses heavily on originality, effort, and policy compliance.
This complete guide explains YouTube Shorts monetization eligibility in 2026, how the review works, and what creators must do to avoid rejection.
What Is YouTube Shorts Monetization?
YouTube Shorts monetization allows creators to earn revenue from ads shown between Shorts videos through YouTube’s Shorts revenue sharing system.
Earnings depend on:
- Total Shorts views
- Viewer location
- Ad performance
- Music licensing costs
Shorts monetization is available only after joining the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) and linking a valid AdSense account.
YouTube Shorts Monetization Eligibility Requirements in 2026
To become eligible for Shorts monetization in 2026, your channel must meet all of the following conditions:
- Minimum 1,000 subscribers
- 10 million public Shorts views in the last 90 days
- 2-step verification enabled
- No active community guideline strikes
- Compliance with YouTube monetization policies
Meeting the view requirement alone does not guarantee approval.
How Shorts Monetization Review Works
Once eligibility requirements are met, YouTube reviews the channel in multiple stages:
- YouTube Partner Program review
- Content quality and originality check
- AdSense account review
- Final Shorts monetization approval
Creators unfamiliar with the approval process should first understand how Google AdSense approval for YouTube works .
Content Rules for YouTube Shorts Monetization in 2026
1. Originality Is Mandatory
YouTube strictly rejects:
- Downloaded or reuploaded Shorts
- Content taken from Instagram or TikTok
- Auto-generated Shorts
- Compilation Shorts without transformation
Fix: Create Shorts with original editing, storytelling, captions, or voice.
2. Repetitive Shorts Are High Risk
Uploading the same format repeatedly can lead to rejection even with high views.
- Same gameplay clip with different text
- Same meme format daily
- Same AI template reused frequently
Fix: Add variation, creativity, and value to every Short.
3. AI Shorts Must Include Human Input
AI-generated Shorts are allowed only when meaningful human effort is involved.
- Original editing
- Voice or explanation
- Creative transformation
Fully automated Shorts are high risk for monetization.
Common Reasons Shorts Monetization Gets Rejected
- Reused or recycled content
- Low-effort Shorts
- AI videos without human value
- Copyright music misuse
- Misleading captions or hashtags
- Random niche switching
Shorts-only channels are reviewed more strictly than mixed-content channels.
How to Fix Shorts Monetization Rejection
Before reapplying:
- Delete reused or risky Shorts
- Improve editing and originality
- Add voice, storytelling, or explanation
- Maintain one clear niche
- Upload fewer but higher-quality Shorts
Understanding why Google AdSense gets rejected for YouTube can help creators avoid repeated rejection.
Shorts Monetization vs Long-Form Monetization
- Shorts require much higher views
- Shorts RPM is usually lower
- Long-form content provides more stable income
- Shorts are best for growth, not sole income
For long-term success, Shorts should support long-form content.
How Much Can You Earn from YouTube Shorts in 2026?
Shorts earnings depend on viewer country, ad demand, and engagement.
- India: ₹2–₹6 per 1,000 views (average)
- Tier-1 countries usually earn more
Shorts monetization is better used as a growth tool rather than a primary income source.
Important Things Shorts Creators Must Know
- Shorts monetization is not guaranteed
- Views without originality do not help
- Quality beats quantity
- Consistency builds channel trust
Following the latest YouTube monetization rules in 2026 helps Shorts creators stay safe.
FAQs – YouTube Shorts Monetization 2026
Can Shorts-only channels get monetized?
Yes, but only with original and high-effort content.
Does reused music affect monetization?
Yes. Music licensing directly impacts approval and earnings.
Can monetization be removed later?
Yes, if policy violations are detected.
Are AI Shorts allowed?
Yes, with meaningful human contribution.
Final Thought
YouTube Shorts monetization in 2026 rewards creators who focus on originality, effort, and consistency.
Shorts can drive rapid growth, but sustainable monetization comes from trust, quality, and compliance.