TikTok has become more than just a platform for sharing short, entertaining videos. It has also become a place where emerging creators can make a substantial income. One of the key ways to monetize on TikTok is through the use of TikTok LIVE Gifts. In this article, we will dive deep into what TikTok LIVE Gifts are, how they work, and how you can make the most of this feature to generate income.
Understanding TikTok LIVE Gifts
TikTok LIVE Gifts are a way for viewers to express their appreciation for your videos during a live stream. By giving gifts, viewers can support their favorite creators and show recognition for their creative efforts. These gifts can also help drive healthy incomes for popular TikTokers.
To receive gifts, you need to activate the LIVE Gifting feature on your TikTok account. Additionally, you may collect Diamonds, which can be later converted into money. However, it’s important to note that the sender of LIVE Gifts needs to comply with TikTok’s Virtual Items Policy.
TikTok LIVE Gifts in Different Regions
If you live in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, or the UK, TikTok has specific policies in place. The Coins Policy, which replaced the Virtual Items Policy in June 2022, outlines how users in these regions can purchase and use Coins. Viewers may buy Coins and send them as TikTok LIVE Gifts to their favorite creators.
On the other hand, TikTok’s Rewards Policy focuses on influencers and content creators living in the selected European countries. This policy explains the eligibility criteria for collecting Rewards on the platform, particularly for those who engage in TikTok LIVE streams.
For the rest of the world, including India, the older Virtual Items Policy applies.
Join TikTok Creator Next for Monetization Opportunities
TikTok has introduced Creator Next to help creators monetize their content as they grow their communities. To be eligible for Creator Next, there are certain criteria you need to meet, including a minimum number of followers and video views. You also need to be in good standing, following TikTok’s guidelines and terms.
By joining Creator Next, you gain access to various monetization features such as the Creator Fund, Creator Marketplace, Video Gifts, LIVE Gifts, and Tips.
Setting up LIVE Gifts on TikTok
Enabling LIVE Gifts on your TikTok account is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can set it up:
- Tap on your profile icon at the bottom right of your screen.
- Click on the three-line (hamburger) icon at the top right to access your Settings.
- Select “Creator Tools,” then tap on “LIVE Gifts” and follow the on-screen instructions.
To receive gifts on your other videos, you need to go through similar steps. Instead of selecting “LIVE Gifts,” tap on “Video Gifts” and turn on the feature.
Receiving Gifts During a LIVE Stream
Any adult viewer can send you a Gift during a LIVE stream if they appreciate your content. To send a Gift, viewers need to follow these simple steps:
- Tap on the Gift icon at the bottom while watching a LIVE video.
- Choose the Gift they want to send.
- If necessary, recharge their Coins by following the instructions.
- Tap “Send” to complete the process.
Keep in mind that viewers can only send LIVE Gifts if they see the Gift icon in the comments section of a video.
Collecting Diamonds and Exchanging Them for Cash
Once you have enabled LIVE Gifting, you can see the gifts you receive during your live streams. At the end of your video, the summary details will display the total number of Gifts made. TikTok awards Diamonds to creators based on the popularity of their pre-recorded and LIVE videos.
To receive Diamonds from your LIVE Gifts, you need to meet certain requirements, such as being part of the Creator Next program, being at least 18 (or meeting exceptions in South Korea and Japan), having a minimum of 1,000 followers, and complying with TikTok’s guidelines. TikTok Business Accounts are not eligible for LIVE Gifts.
While you can’t purchase Diamonds, you can check your balance at any time and withdraw them for monetary compensation. TikTok calculates the rate based on several factors, including the number of Diamonds you have. To withdraw money, you need to link your PayPal account to your TikTok account.
Understanding the Value of TikTok Virtual Items
TikTok’s Virtual Items, including LIVE Gifts, have their own value. Some examples of virtual gifts and their coin equivalents include the Panda (5 coins), Italian Hand (5 coins), Love Bang (25 coins), and Drama Queen (5,000 coins). It’s worth noting that TikTok’s Diamonds hold 50% of the coin value.
For example, if a follower gifts you a Drama Queen worth 5,000 coins, it is equivalent to 2,500 Diamonds. Each Diamond is worth 5 cents, so the Drama Queen will be worth $125. However, TikTok retains 50% of what you earn, meaning your cash-in value would be $62.50.
There is a minimum withdrawal threshold of $100, and the maximum amount you can withdraw per day is $1,000.
Other Types of Gifts on TikTok
It’s important to remember that viewers can also send Gifts for non-live videos. To send a Gift on a pre-recorded TikTok video, viewers should follow these steps:
- Tap on the Comments icon while watching the video.
- Next to “Add comment,” tap on the Gift icon.
- Choose the Gift they want to send.
- Recharge Coins if needed and write a comment before tapping “Send.”
Please note that not all types of TikTok videos are eligible for receiving Gifts. Duet and Stitch videos, ads or sponsored content, and videos that violate TikTok’s Community Guidelines cannot receive Gifts.
Best Practices for Gifting and Live Streaming
TikTok encourages creators to show appreciation for their audience’s Gifts. Engaging in best practices can help create a positive environment. Here are some recommendations from TikTok:
- Thank your audience for their Gifts and express gratitude.
- Avoid making promises to your audience in exchange for Gifts or follows.
Understanding TikTok Live
If you are new to TikTok, you might be unfamiliar with the term “TikTok Live.” TikTok Live is a feature that allows creators to live stream their videos to their audience. It provides a way for creators to connect with their followers in real-time through comments and, as we’ve seen before, receive virtual Gifts.
To unlock TikTok Live, you need to meet certain conditions, such as being at least 16 years old and having a minimum number of followers.
Setting up a Live Stream is easy. You can do this by clicking on the “+” button at the bottom center of the screen and selecting “LIVE” from the available options. Make sure to use a captivating title and engaging hashtags to maximize your reach.
In Conclusion
TikTok LIVE Gifts are a valuable feature that allows creators to receive recognition and support from their audience. By understanding how to set up and make the most of LIVE Gifts, creators can generate income while providing entertaining content. So, start exploring the world of TikTok LIVE Gifts and engage with your audience like never before!
