Instagram offers monetary incentives to content creators through its Reels bonus program. By posting engaging Reels frequently, creators can earn bonuses based on the views and interactions their Reels receive.
What is Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels is a feature that allows users to record and edit 15-30 second multi-clip videos with audio, effects, and creative tools.
Reels can be shared publicly to Instagram’s Explore page or posted to your own feed.
It provides a way for creators to express themselves creatively and reach new audiences.
Who is eligible for Reels bonuses?
Any Instagram user with a public account is eligible to earn bonuses for creating Reels.
However, Instagram particularly encourages creators, businesses, publishers and other influencers to take advantage of Reels bonuses and monetization.
How are Reels bonuses calculated?
Instagram calculates potential payouts based on the engagement and viewership numbers for each Reel. Key metrics used include:
- Views – The total number of times a Reel has been viewed.
- Accounts reached – The number of unique Instagram accounts that have viewed the Reel.
- Likes – The total number of likes received on the Reel.
- Comments – The total number of text comments received.
- Saves – The number of times users have saved the Reel to watch later.
- Shares – The number of times users have shared the Reel to their own feed or Story.
Instagram does not disclose the exact formula used, but bonuses are higher for Reels that achieve greater viewership, engagement and sharing among the Instagram community. Consistently posting Reels that resonate with your audience is key.
How much money do Reels pay?
Specific payout amounts are not made public by Instagram. Bonuses vary based on factors like account size, content type, engagement levels, etc. However, these benchmarks may provide an idea:
- Accounts with lower followings may earn a few cents per thousand views.
- Established creators and influencers often earn 1-4 cents per view.
- Top performers can earn up to 20 cents per thousand views.
For example, a Reel with 500,000 views could pay around $250-$2000 depending on engagement and account reach.
The potential to earn steady income exists, especially for consistent creators building an audience.
How do you get paid for Instagram Reels?
Users eligible for bonus pay can access earnings and cash out via Instagram’s bonus program in the app. To claim a bonus:
- Go to the Instagram app and tap the profile icon.
- Tap the menu button and choose “Settings”.
- Select “Account” and tap “Professional dashboard”.
- Choose “Monetization” and “Instagram Reels Play Bonus” to view earnings.
- Review eligibility and request payout via bank transfer or PayPal.
Payouts are issued when you reach the $100 minimum threshold.
Instagram pays bonuses every month as long as terms are met. Be sure to consistently post engaging Reels as per the program guidelines.
Tips for earning money on Reels
Here are some best practices creators of all sizes can use to maximizes Reels income:
Post daily: Regularly publishing fresh Reels drives more views.
Hook viewers fast: Make the first 5 seconds as captivating as possible.
Use popular music: Trending songs help Reels get discovered.
Optimize hashtags: Include relevant high-traffic hashtags.
Engage with viewers: Reply to comments, like replies.
Cross-promote: Share Reels on IG Story and other social channels.
Analyze performance: See which Reels resonate best with your audience.
Additionally, collaborating with other creators via duets or stitches can help expand your reach. Overall, focus on producing fun, entertaining Reels tailored to your niche.
Monetizing Reels beyond bonuses
While Reels bonuses provide a straightforward way to get paid by Instagram directly, creators can also leverage Reels for other monetization opportunities like:
Sponsorships: Partner with brands relevant to your content.
Affiliate links: Share referral codes and product links.
Merchandise: Feature branded merch, apparel in Reels.
Paid partnerships: Collaborate with brands on branded content.
The audience and engagement gained via Reels success can lead to diverse revenue streams. But Instagram bonuses serve as a predictable, built-in monetization option.
Reels monetization requirements
To maintain bonus eligibility, accounts must adhere to Instagram’s Partner Program policies. Key rules include:
- Complying with all Community Guidelines and Terms of Use policies
- Meeting minimum activity thresholds by posting consistently
- Not posting nudity, hate speech, harassment, or dangerous content
- Properly attributing original audio
- Not artificially inflating engagement metrics
Violating guidelines may result in losing access to Instagram monetization tools. Carefully following regulations keeps accounts in good standing.
The future of Reels monetization
Instagram is continuing to develop Reels ads and shopping features to offer creators more native monetization options beyond the bonus program.
As Reels and short-form video grow more popular, Instagram is poised to challenge established platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
Succeeding with Reels now can help position accounts to capitalize on future money-making opportunities.