Why Did My Creator Fund Earnings Drop?
Complete troubleshooting guide with 12 common causes and solutions
Understanding Creator Fund Payments
The RPM Formula
Earnings = (Total Views ÷ 1,000) × RPMYour earnings depend on: (1) Total video views, and (2) RPM rate (value per 1,000 views)
12 Common Reasons for Earnings Drops
1. Decreased Video Views
Symptom: Recent videos getting fewer views than before
Cause: Algorithm changes, content quality drop, or audience fatigue
Fix: Review top-performing content and replicate. Test different posting times. Refresh content strategy with new hooks and formats.
2. Lower Engagement Rate
Symptom: Similar views but earnings down
Cause: Engagement rate decreased (fewer likes, comments, shares)
Fix: Add clear CTAs. Create stitch/duet-worthy content. Respond to comments within first hour. Use cliffhangers to increase watch time.
3. Audience Location Shift
Symptom: Views steady, engagement similar, earnings dropped
Cause: More views from lower-paying regions
Fix: Post at times when target audience (US/UK) is active. Use language/references specific to higher-RPM markets.
4. Content Niche Changed
Symptom: Earnings dropped after pivoting niche
Cause: Different niches have different RPM rates. Finance/business pays more than entertainment/comedy.
Fix: If pivot was intentional, accept the RPM difference. Focus on growing views to compensate. Consider hybrid approach.
5. Increased Reposted Content
Symptom: More duets/stitches, earnings dropped despite views
Cause: TikTok pays less for non-original content
Fix: Aim for 70%+ original content. When using duets/stitches, add substantial commentary.