Social media has now become a powerful source of income for creators worldwide. It’s provided the perfect way to get paid for your creativity.
However, earning is one thing; getting paid is another. Many creators, especially those outside the US or UK, face huge barriers when receiving their earnings. Payment rejections, high fees and limited banking options are some of the most common hurdles.
So how do creators in places like Nigeria, India, Brazil, Morocco, and beyond navigate this? That’s exactly what this guide will help you figure out.
Making money on different platforms depends on where you post, how you grow, and whether your platform supports payments in your region.
Each platform has its own rules, tools, and payment requirements. Some pay through partner programs, others let fans tip you directly. Let’s break it down by platform so you know exactly what’s possible and what issues you might encounter.
TikTok offers multiple revenue streams for creators:
Depending on your region, TikTok pays through PayPal or direct bank deposit. In some countries, a US or EU bank account may be required to access certain features, so many creators use digital banking platforms like Grey to receive their funds without hassle.
YouTube is still one of the most reliable monetisation platforms out there. Once you’re eligible for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), you can earn through:
To get paid, you’ll need to connect an AdSense account, which typically pays out once your balance crosses $100. YouTube pays monthly, often via direct deposit or wire transfer, but some countries may also get paid through Western Union or Payoneer.
Meta’s ecosystem rewards creators who consistently engage their audience:
Meta pays monthly and prefers linking a US or supported foreign bank account. If your local bank doesn’t meet Meta’s criteria, Grey is an easy way to receive USD or EUR payouts and withdraw to your local account.
Twitch monetisation is all about community. Over the years, it’s evolved into a live-streaming platform for all kinds of creators, including musicians, artists and hosts that just chat with the audience. They all build loyal communities through conversation. The magic of Twitch is its interactivity. You’re connecting with your audience in real time through chat, alerts, and fan-driven moments.
If you’re part of the Twitch Affiliate or Partner programme, here’s how you can earn:
Payouts are usually made via PayPal, direct deposit, or wire transfer, depending on your location. You must reach a minimum balance of $50 before Twitch initiates payment, which is usually processed 15 days after the month ends.
X now offers creators a chance to earn via:
All earnings are processed via Stripe, so having an active Stripe account is mandatory. You must also verify your identity and meet follower and engagement thresholds to qualify.
This subscription-based platform allows creators to set up tiered membership plans, giving paying fans access to perks like exclusive posts, behind-the-scenes updates, early releases, or merch discounts. It’s especially popular among podcasters, YouTubers, writers, and artists looking for recurring income.
Patreon pays out via Stripe, PayPal, Payoneer, or direct deposit in supported countries.
Substack is best known for turning newsletters into a business. It lets writers and thought leaders publish free or paid email newsletters. Subscribers can pay monthly or annually, and creators keep a large share of the revenue after fees. It’s a go-to for journalists, essayists, and niche experts.
Payments are processed through Stripe, so payout availability depends on your country.
This flexible platform allows fans to “buy you a coffee” (send small one-time donations) or support you with monthly memberships. Creators can also sell digital downloads, courses, or commissions directly. Ko-fi doesn’t take a cut of donations on its free plan, but charges for advanced features.
Payouts happen via PayPal or Stripe.
While platforms are expanding monetisation globally, many creators still struggle to receive the money they’ve earned. Some common issues include:
These challenges are frustrating and can make it harder for creators to treat content creation as a full-time, reliable career.
Here’s where digital banking platforms like Grey come in.
Grey helps creators receive international earnings smoothly, securely, and affordably.
Here’s how it works:
Go to grey.co or download the Grey app. Sign up in minutes and verify your identity.
Once verified, you’ll receive bank account details in your name, such as a US routing/account number, a UK sort code, or a Euro IBAN.
Enter your Grey-provided banking details in the payout section of your platform (e.g. YouTube, Meta, Patreon).
Once your payment is sent, it lands directly in your Grey account. No delays. No need for a PayPal workaround.
You can choose when to convert your foreign currency earnings to your local currency at some of the best rates available. Then send it to your local bank account.
If you’re a content creator, you already know the hustle is just about going viral as it’s about making the most of every dollar, pound, or euro you earn. Grey is designed specifically for digital earners navigating cross-border payments.
Grey gives you access to USD, GBP and EUR accounts. You can receive payments like a local, with no middlemen and no complicated banking paperwork.
When converting to their local currency, creators often lose money to poor exchange rates. With Grey, you don’t. You’ll get real-time FX rates and know exactly what your conversions look like with no hidden charges or nasty surprises.
Grey doesn’t require you to be a citizen of the countries where your clients or platforms are based. You can open a USD, GBP, or EUR account from your phone without leaving your country.
Grey understands that your income may come from multiple platforms like TikTok, Facebook Reels, Fiverr gigs, or brand partnerships. That’s why the platform is built for flexibility: receive, hold, convert, or withdraw on your terms.
Grey is fully compliant with international KYC and anti-fraud standards. Payments reflect faster, and you can track every stage from deposit to withdrawal with complete transparency.
You can fund your account through supported transfers or crypto (USDC), withdraw directly to your local bank account, or spend online using your Grey USD card. You’ve got options.
So, your content is finally paying off, or at least starting to. But how do you go from a few payouts here and there to a consistent, growing income you can rely on?
Relying on a single platform is risky. Algorithms shift, monetisation rules change, and what works today might not work tomorrow. Instead, diversify where your content lives and earns. Use YouTube for long-form, TikTok for short bursts of attention, and platforms like Patreon or Ko-fi for direct support from your community. This expands your reach and gives you multiple revenue streams to fall back on.
Each platform has its quirks when it comes to getting paid. Some only pay once you’ve hit a threshold. For example, TikTok’s Creator Fund pays out once you’ve reached $10, while YouTube requires $100 in earnings. Others, like Patreon, let you cash out whenever you want. Keep track of things like:
Understanding this helps you plan cash flow and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Going viral is great. But what really builds income over time is consistency. Stick to a schedule, show up regularly, and engage with your audience. Most monetisation tools reward creators who keep showing up. Create value consistently, and the money will follow.
Once you start earning across borders, your tax situation gets a bit more complex. You may need to report your income, even if the platform paying you is abroad. Stay organised by:
Being tax-smart is one of the best ways to protect your earnings and avoid surprises.
Your content is already reaching people around the world. Getting paid should be just as global.
With Grey, you can receive international payments, convert at fair rates, and spend or save on your own terms.
Create your free Grey account today or download the app to make your creator journey easier, smarter, and borderless.
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