Yes, Instagram does offer monetization opportunities for Reels creators through its Reels Play Bonus program. By participating in this program, eligible creators can earn money when their Reels go viral and get significant engagement. The amount paid out depends on the views and engagement each reel receives.
What Are Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels are short, entertaining video clips that users can create and post on the Instagram app. They allow creators to record multi-clip videos combined with audio, effects, and creative tools. Reels can be up to 30 seconds long. They live on the main Instagram feed and on the dedicated Reels tab.
Reels aim to provide an experience similar to popular short-form video apps like TikTok. Since launching in 2020, Reels has become one of Instagram’s major features. It presents a big opportunity for creators to grow an audience and get their content seen.
Who Can Earn Money from Instagram Reels?
Instagram first launched monetization on Reels for a small group of creators in the United States in 2021. They have since expanded it to more creators and countries.
To be eligible to earn money from Reels, creators must:
- Have an Instagram account in a supported country
- Post original reels that follow Instagram’s recommended best practices
- Have a minimum account follower count, which varies by country and changes over time as the program expands
The eligibility requirements aim to provide monetization to accounts generating the most valuable and engaging reels. Instagram stated when they introduced the program that they plan to gradually allow more creators to start earning.
How Do Creators Earn Money from Instagram Reels?
Eligible creators can earn money from Reels through Instagram’s Reels Play bonus program. This program pays creators when their reels exceed specific engagement thresholds.
There is no way for creators to monetize Reels directly. Instagram determines payout amounts based solely on the performance of each reel. Here are the key details of how the bonus program works:
- Thresholds: To earn a bonus, a reel must reach a certain number of views within 24 hours of being posted. Instagram has not disclosed the exact thresholds.
- Bonus Pool: Instagram sets aside a designated amount of money each month to pay Reels Play bonuses. The amount in the monthly bonus pool depends on region and can change over time.
- Performance: The bonus amount individual creators earn depends on the total number of views and accounts reached for each reel that qualifies. Reels with more views and higher reach earn more money.
- Payout: Creators can cash out earnings each month through direct deposit once they cross a $100 USD minimum.
Instagram is continually evaluating and adjusting the program’s requirements and payout details. They want to pay bonuses in a way that is sustainable long-term and meaningful for creators.
Tips for Earning More Money from Instagram Reels
While Instagram determines specific bonuses, creators can take steps to boost their overall reels earnings potential:
- Engage followers: Reels that connect with your audience tend to get more views, likes, and comments. Pay attention to which reel topics and styles resonate most.
- Post consistently: The more reels you share, the more chances you have to create viral hits that earn bonuses.
- Optimize hashtags: Include relevant hashtags so your reels show up in keyword searches.
- Share to feed: Also posting your reel on your profile can help more followers see it.
- Reuse viral content: Reposting or remixing reels that performed well can lead to repeat success.
- Follow best practices: Use recommended video lengths, audio, effects, captions, etc. to create reels that stand out.
Other Instagram Reels Monetization Opportunities
In addition to the Reels Play bonus program, creators can benefit from Reels monetization by:
- Sponsored content: Brand sponsorship deals allow creators to get paid directly to produce branded reels.
- Growing audience: Viral reels help creators gain more followers. A larger audience on Instagram opens more monetization doors.
- Merchandise sales: Directing viewers to purchase merchandise via reels’ shoppable sticker feature.
- Selling other services: Using reels to advertise services like online courses, consulting, live events, etc.
Reels provide a big opportunity to get your content and brand in front of more potential supporters. While getting direct payouts from Instagram takes time, reels can support creators’ money-making efforts in multiple ways.
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning Money from Instagram Reels
How much do Instagram Reels pay?
There is no standard rate or CPM for Instagram Reels. The amount earned depends on the views and engagement each qualifying reel receives in the first 24 hours. Top-performing reels can earn up to thousands of dollars through the bonus program.
How many views do you need to get paid on Reels?
Instagram has not provided the exact viewership thresholds reels must hit to qualify for a bonus. Based on creator reports, reels likely need hundreds of thousands or millions of views in 24 hours to have a chance at earning a bonus.
Does Instagram pay for likes or shares?
No, Instagram only pays Reels bonuses based on views. However, likes and shares can help a reel gain more views organically, which in turn boosts earning potential.
How long does it take to get paid from Instagram Reels?
After a reel qualifies for a bonus during a monthly cycle, eligible creators can request a payout during the next cycle once they pass the $100 USD earning threshold. So it typically takes around 1-2 months to get paid after posting a bonus-worthy reel.
Can you make money from Reels without the bonus program?
Yes, you can earn from reels through sponsored content, driving product sales, gaining followers, and using them to promote other monetizable endeavors outside the Instagram app.
Do all countries have Reels monetization?
As of September 2022, the Reels Play bonus program is only available in around 30 countries. Instagram is gradually expanding it. Countries currently with it include the US, UK, India, Brazil, Canada, and more.
The Bottom Line
Posting Instagram Reels can be a rewarding way for creators to engage an audience around entertaining short videos. While going viral leads to big bonus payouts, it takes significant growth and consistent quality reels to reach that level. The opportunities for earning with Reels will likely continue expanding as Instagram further invests in short-form video features.