How Do Twitch Subscriptions Work?
Twitch subscriptions are a monthly recurring payment that viewers make to support their favorite streamers. There are three subscription tiers (Tier 1, 2, and 3), with each offering different benefits and price points.
Subscribers get access to subscriber-only chat modes, custom emotes, ad-free viewing, and other perks depending on what the streamer offers. The revenue is split between Twitch and the streamer, with Affiliates receiving 50% and Partners typically receiving 70% of the subscription fee.
Affiliate vs Partner: What's the Difference?
Twitch Affiliates receive a 50/50 revenue split and must meet basic requirements: 50 followers, 500 total minutes broadcast, 7 unique broadcast days, and an average of 3 viewers over 30 days.
Twitch Partners receive better revenue splits (typically 70/30), priority support, and additional monetization options. Partner requirements are more stringent and include consistent viewership, professional presentation, and adherence to Twitch's community guidelines.
What affects subscription revenue?
Several factors impact your subscription revenue: your account status (Affiliate vs Partner), regional pricing differences, subscriber retention rates, and seasonal fluctuations. Partners generally earn more per subscription due to better revenue splits.
How do regional prices work?
Twitch adjusts subscription prices in different regions to make them more affordable locally. While this means lower absolute revenue per subscriber in some regions, it can increase overall subscriber counts and long-term revenue potential.
When do streamers receive payouts?
Twitch pays streamers monthly, typically around the 15th of each month for the previous month's earnings. You must reach a $100 minimum threshold to receive a payout. Earnings below this threshold carry over to the next month.
What other revenue streams can complement subscriptions?
Successful streamers diversify their income through Bits, donations, sponsorships, merchandise, and game sales commissions. Combining multiple revenue streams provides more stable income than relying on subscriptions alone.
Tips for growing your subscriber base
Focus on consistent streaming schedules, engaging with your community, offering unique subscriber perks, creating quality content, and networking with other streamers. Building genuine relationships with viewers is key to converting followers into subscribers.
Tax considerations for streaming income
Subscription revenue is considered taxable income. Keep detailed records of your earnings, expenses, and equipment purchases. Consider consulting with a tax professional familiar with content creator income for proper tax planning and compliance.