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Thanks to a mix of creativity, strategy, and a few decent Wi-Fi signals, everyday creators are turning scrolls into actual paychecks.
Whether you’ve got a niche, a meme, or just a little chaos energy, there are more ways than ever to cash in.
 Here’s a rundown of real ways to make real money on TikTok based on insights from Hootsuite and Buffer — and how to actually get started:
Using a TikTok Business Account gives creators access to deeper analytics, making it easier to track what’s working and what’s not.
It also unlocks direct access to tools like the Commercial Music Library and in-app shopping features that aren’t available with a standard account.
Before you start posting, it’s important to build a TikTok-specific strategy, since what works on Instagram or YouTube won’t always land here.
TikTok’s algorithm ranks videos using a mix of factors like past user interactions, video captions, sounds, hashtags, and even viewer demographics — all of which shape what people see.
TikTok’s Creator Fund pays you based on video performance, but don’t expect yacht money overnight.
You need at least 10,000 followers, 100,000 views in the past 30 days, and to post original content that doesn’t violate any rules.
Payments vary wildly — think a few cents to a few dollars per 1,000 views — but it’s a start.
TikTok’s newer Creator Rewards Program focuses on rewarding longer videos (over a minute) and overall engagement, not just viral moments.
You still need a good following to qualify, but payouts can be a little more generous compared to the Creator Fund.
If you’re into storytelling, tutorials, or deep dives, this could be your lane.
Live streams aren’t just for flexing your cat’s weird habits anymore — they’re for getting paid.
TikTok lets viewers send you Gifts (digital coins that convert into real money) or leave Tips if they like what you’re doing.
It’s basically the internet’s version of putting a dollar in a busker’s guitar case, but way more instant.
About 65% of TikTok users feel that polished, professional videos from brands seem out of place on the app.
All you really need to get started is your phone, some good lighting, clear audio, and a strong dose of creativity.
Merch, e-books, custom art — whatever your thing is, TikTok can help you move it.
TikTok Shop makes it easier than ever to connect your products directly to your videos without making it feel like a hard sell.
Just don’t treat your followers like ATMs — good content still comes first.
If you’re not ready to launch a product line but still want to earn, affiliate marketing might be your move.
You recommend products you love, drop a link, and earn a cut every time someone buys through you.
It’s low effort if you already talk about stuff you use — just make sure it’s authentic or people will peace out fast.
Brand deals are where the bigger bucks start showing up, but it’s not just for influencers with millions of followers.
Nano and micro-influencers (that’s you if you’ve got between 1,000 to 100,000 followers) are landing paid collaborations with brands that want a tight, engaged community.
Your vibe attracts your tribe — and your sponsors.
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