Monetizing a YouTube Channel after a Copyright Strike

Introduction

YouTube's content policies can be complex, especially when dealing with copyright strikes. For a YouTube channel that has achieved a significant following, such as crossing 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours from reposted Creative Commons videos, and has received one copyright strike due to a mistakenly posted copyrighted video, the question often arises, 'Will YouTube allow monetization on this channel?' This article aims to provide clear guidance on the process and conditions for reinstating monetization after a copyright strike.

Navigating YouTube's Copyright Policies

YouTube has a robust set of policies designed to protect intellectual property rights while also allowing creators to share their content. One common issue is the copyright strike, which can occur when a video mistakenly posted by a creator is found to infringe on the rights of a content creator.

When a YouTube channel receives a copyright strike, it means that the copyright holder has reported the video for copyright infringement. This is a serious matter and can result in several consequences, including a potential ban on monetization. However, the good news is that there are steps you can take to restore monetization after a strike.

Understanding the Steps to Restore Monetization

Once you receive a copyright strike, there are several steps you can take to restore monetization on your channel:

Delete the Video: The first step is to remove the video that caused the strike from your channel. This is crucial because leaving the video up may result in further strikes and more severe penalties. Wait for 90 Days: After deleting the video, you must wait for a minimum of 90 days. This period allows YouTube to verify that the copyright issue has been resolved and that your channel is in compliance with their policies. Submit a Request to Monetize: After the 90-day period, you can submit a request to YouTube to reinstate monetization on your channel. This process involves completing a form and providing evidence that no further copyright strikes have occurred during the 90-day waiting period.

Review by YouTube Moderators

Even after you have taken the necessary steps to remove the offending video and have waited the required 90 days, YouTube may still review your content. This review is to ensure that you are not posting any copyrighted material and that you are adhering to all of YouTube's community guidelines.

During this review process, YouTube moderators will verify that your channel does not contain any copyright-infringing content. It's important to note that this review is not instantaneous; it can take several weeks. Therefore, it's crucial to monitor your channel and ensure that you are consistently posting only content that complies with YouTube's guidelines.

Preventing Future Strikes

To prevent future copyright strikes, it's essential to educate yourself on YouTube's policies and understand how to avoid posting copyrighted material. Here are some tips:

Check for Copyrights: Before uploading any video, use tools like YouTube’s Content ID system to check for potential copyright issues. Use Creative Commons: If you are using other people's content, ensure that you are using it under a Creative Commons license that allows you to do so. Obtain Permissions: If you are unsure about the copyright status of the content, contact the copyright holder and obtain proper authorization. Watermarking: Consider adding watermarks to your videos to claim your originality and potentially reduce the chances of copyright disputes.

Conclusion

Monetizing a YouTube channel after a copyright strike is possible, but it requires following the proper procedures and ensuring you are in compliance with YouTube's policies. By understanding the process and taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully navigate the challenges of copyright issues and grow your channel.

For more information and to ensure you are fully aware of YouTube's policies, it's advisable to consult the official YouTube Help Center or seek advice from YouTube support.