YouTube pays creators through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) based on several revenue streams. Here’s a simplified overview of how creators earn money on YouTube:

1. Ad Revenue: Creators earn a share of the advertising revenue generated from ads displayed on their videos. This includes display ads, overlay ads, skippable video ads (TrueView), and non-skippable video ads. Advertisers pay based on impressions, clicks, or views of their ads.
2. YouTube Premium Revenue: Creators also earn a portion of the revenue generated from YouTube Premium subscribers who watch their content. YouTube Premium removes ads for subscribers and pays creators based on the time Premium members spend watching their videos.
3. Channel Memberships: Some creators offer channel memberships to their subscribers for a monthly fee. Members receive perks like custom emojis, badges, and exclusive content. Creators earn a portion of the membership fees.
4. Super Chat and Super Stickers: During live chat on live streams, viewers can purchase Super Chat and Super Stickers to get their messages or stickers highlighted. Creators receive a share of these purchases.
5. Merchandise Shelf: Creators can showcase their official merchandise on their channel. When viewers make purchases through the merchandise shelf, creators earn a portion of the sales.
6. YouTube Premium Revenue: Creators also earn a portion of the revenue generated from YouTube Premium subscribers who watch their content. YouTube Premium removes ads for subscribers and pays creators based on the time Premium members spend watching their videos.
7. Sponsorships and Brand Deals: Many creators secure sponsorships and brand deals with companies that want to promote their products or services in videos. Compensation varies widely based on the creator’s audience size and niche.
8. YouTube Shorts Fund (for Short Videos): YouTube introduced a Shorts Fund to reward creators who produce short-form content. Creators can earn a share of this fund based on the popularity of their YouTube Shorts.
9. Crowdfunding: Some creators use crowdfunding platforms like Patreon or Kickstarter to receive direct financial support from their fans.
10. Affiliate Marketing: Creators often include affiliate links in their video descriptions. When viewers make purchases through these links, creators earn a commission.

Payments to creators are typically made on a monthly basis and require reaching a minimum earnings threshold (usually $100) before receiving a payout.