Intro
Instagram’s Reels Bonus Program was once a key way for creators to earn direct payouts for viral short-form videos. If you’re wondering how to join, what the requirements are, and what your options are now that the program has changed, here’s everything you need to know.
What Was the Instagram Reels Bonus Program?
Instagram’s Reels Bonus Program was an invite-only initiative that paid creators for the number of views their Reels received within a set period. Payouts could range from $1 to $8 per 1,000 views, with top creators earning thousands per month if they went viral. However, the program was always limited by Instagram’s eligibility criteria and shifting availability by region.
Is the Reels Bonus Program Still Open?
As of 2025, Instagram has discontinued the Reels Play Bonus program for new and renewed participants in major regions like the U.S. and India. Creators who were already part of the program could finish out their bonus periods, but new sign-ups are not currently being accepted. Instagram continues to test and introduce new ways for creators to monetize, so it’s important to stay updated on official announcements.
What to Do if You Want to Monetize Your Reels
While you can’t join the original Reels Bonus Program right now, Instagram still offers several valuable monetization opportunities:
1. Watch for New and Emerging Bonus Programs
Instagram is actively rolling out new creator bonuses and referral programs, such as the "Breakthrough Bonus" (for creators moving over from TikTok) and exclusive invite-only referral initiatives. These may be region-specific and often target creators who can drive significant engagement or sign-ups.
2. Build Your Account for Future Invites
Many Instagram monetization programs are still invite-only. To maximize your chances of being included when new opportunities arise:
- **Switch to a creator or business account.
**
- **Post original, engaging Reels consistently.
**
- **Grow your audience in high-value regions (US, UK, Western Europe).
**
- Engage with your community: Respond to comments, DMs, and encourage interaction.
3. Explore Alternative Monetization Options
If you want to start earning now, here are practical ways to monetize on Instagram:
-
Brand partnerships: Pitch brands for sponsored Reels, Stories, and posts.
-
Affiliate marketing: Share affiliate links for products you genuinely recommend and earn commissions on sales.
-
Instagram Subscriptions: Offer exclusive content to paying subscribers (if available in your country).
-
Live Badges: Host Instagram Lives where followers can tip you with badges.
-
Instagram Shopping: Tag your own products in Reels and posts for direct sales.
4. Stay Informed and Ready
Follow Instagram’s official Creators account and check your Professional Dashboard for updates on new bonus or monetization opportunities. Instagram regularly pilots new features, and early adopters often benefit the most.
Tips to Maximize Your Monetization Potential
-
Focus on high-quality, original content that fits your niche.
-
Use analytics tools (like Ranktracker) to monitor what’s working and double down on your best-performing content.
-
Engage authentically—brands and platforms both reward genuine community building.
Conclusion
While the original Instagram Reels Bonus Program is no longer accepting new members in most regions, the platform continues to support creators through new bonus programs and a wide range of monetization tools. Build your account, stay engaged, and keep an eye on the latest opportunities. The creator economy is always evolving, and those who stay proactive will be first in line when the next wave of bonuses rolls out.
