Guidelines for Applying to Monetize a Copyrighted YouTube Channel

When engaging in content creation on YouTube, it's crucial to understand the implications of using copyrighted material. Simply put, when a third party reports a copyright infringement on your YouTube channel, you're given the opportunity to use the content, but the content owner retains the right to monetize it and generate revenue from your video.

Understanding Copyright Claims and Strikes

A copyright claim on YouTube is a formal notification from a content owner that you are using their copyrighted material. If you receive a copyright claim, it means the copyright owner can place ads on your video and earn money from it. However, as the content creator, you won't receive any compensation for this usage. This situation is significantly preferable to a copyright strike, where your video is removed from your channel, and you receive a strike.

A strike results when the content owner claims their right over content they have created. If you accumulate three copyright complaints, your channel will be shutdown. In severe cases, it might also lead to legal troubles, forcing you to defend yourself in court.

The Risks of Using Copyrighted Content

Even if you have no subscribers, no views, and it's your first video, using another author's copyrighted work could result in a lawsuit or a strike. Therefore, it's important to carefully vet and credit all content you use on your YouTube channel to avoid these pitfalls.

How to Apply for Monetization on YouTube

Applying for monetization on YouTube is a straightforward process, but it requires meeting several criteria:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Sign in to your YouTube account.

Click on your profile picture in the top right corner.

Navigate to YouTube Studio.

In the left menu, click on Monetization.

If you are not yet eligible, click on Notify me when I'm eligible. This will send you an email when you've met the criteria of 1000 subscribers and 4000 watch hours over the past 12 months.

If you meet the criteria, click on Start on the “Review Partner Program terms” card.

Step 2: Review and Sign the Terms

Once you start the application process, YouTube will review your account to ensure you meet the criteria. If you satisfy the requirements, they will mark the step with a green “Done” sign on the “Review Partner Program terms” card. This indicates that you have officially applied for the Partner Program and are on your way to monetizing your content.

Remember, while applying for monetization, it's essential to ensure that all content you use is either created by yourself or properly licensed. Content without proper clearance can lead to copyright strikes or even lawsuits, which can severely impact your channel and career.