We call on YouTube to stop changing the monetization requirements in a way that shuts out small creators and makes it harder for them to earn money.

YouTube has announced a change in the requirements for monetization from 4,000 hours to 8,000 hours, along with 20 million Shorts views in 90 days. For many small creators, this does not feel like motivation. It feels like the goalpost is being moved farther away just when they are close to reaching it. Instead of helping hardworking creators grow, this change risks pushing people out before they ever get a fair chance to earn anything from their work.

Small YouTubers put in time, creativity, and effort because they believe they can build something real. Many are already struggling to get noticed. When the requirements are doubled, it sends the message that only a few can make it, while everyone else should give up. That is not fair to the people building the platform’s future.

We understand that YouTube is a business, but it should not act in a way that ignores the creators who helped make it what it is. We reject the idea that making the path harder will somehow encourage people. In reality, it discourages small creators and makes many of them quit before they have a chance to earn money.

We urge YouTube to keep monetization requirements fair, realistic, and accessible for small creators who are trying to succeed.