YouTube is raising the bar for new creators seeking monetization through ads and channel memberships. Starting February 1, 2027, channels will need to accumulate at least 8,000 qualified watch hours in the past year or 20 million qualified views on Shorts within the last 90 days to qualify for the YouTube Partner Program.
The doubled thresholds represent a significant increase from current requirements and apply only to newly monetizing creators. Existing members of the YouTube Partner Program will not be affected by these changes, preserving access for creators already earning through the platform.
