Live streaming is everywhere nowadays. Whether you’re gaming on Twitch, chatting with fans on TikTok LIVE, or hosting shows or podcasts on YouTube, there are now more ways than ever to earn real income from your content. However, for streamers outside the US, receiving payments in USD can be slow, expensive, and complicated without the right setup.

In this article, we’ll share some of the best streaming platforms where you can get paid to stream, plus practical tips to maximize your earnings. We’ll also explain why setting up a US business account with Adro can help you receive payouts faster, avoid unnecessary fees (so you keep more of your earnings!), and keep your streaming income organized and streamlined.

Most Popular Streaming Platforms

Twitch

Twitch is still the king of live streaming, especially in gaming and esports. It’s where massive audiences gather for everything from AAA game launches to casual “Just Chatting” streams.

• How you earn: Once you qualify for the Affiliate or Partner program, you can make money from channel subscriptions, Bits (a virtual tipping currency), and ad revenue. Many streamers also open donation links or use merch integrations.
• Payout threshold: You’ll need to reach $50 before Twitch sends a payout.
• Payout methods: Direct bank transfer via ACH, PayPal, eCheck/local bank, or paper check.
• Why it’s worth considering: The Twitch culture is strong, viewers are used to supporting creators financially, which can make monetization easier if you’re consistent.
• Pro tip: If you connect a US business account like Adro, you can often avoid extra fees and delays from currency conversion.

YouTube Live

YouTube isn’t just for pre-recorded content creators anymore. Live streaming here benefits from built-in discoverability through YouTube’s search and recommendation system.

• How you earn: Through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), you can monetize with ads, paid channel memberships, Super Chats/Super Stickers during live streams, and even product sales through channel shopping.
• Eligibility: The standard route requires 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past year. However, some tools unlock earlier, at 500 subscribers, you can enable features like channel memberships and shopping if you meet the watch hour/Shorts view criteria.
• Payout threshold: $100 via AdSense, with payments issued between the 21st–26th each month.
• Why it’s worth considering: Your live streams live on as searchable videos, bringing in replay views and ad revenue long after you’ve logged off.

TikTok LIVE

If your audience lives on mobile, TikTok LIVE is a powerful way to engage them in real time. The platform blends short-form discovery with interactive live sessions.

• How you earn: Viewers send virtual gifts during your streams, which you can exchange for real money. You can also join the Creator Rewards Program for VOD monetization or promote products via TikTok Shop for affiliate earnings.
• Eligibility: LIVE gifting generally requires at least 1,000 followers. Other monetization features, like Creator Rewards, have higher thresholds and may vary by country.
• Payout methods: Bank transfer or payment partners, depending on your region.
• Why it’s worth considering: TikTok’s algorithm can push your content to entirely new audiences overnight, which is ideal for rapid growth.

Kick

Kick is the bold newcomer shaking up live streaming, known for giving creators a much larger cut of subscription revenue.

• How you earn: Kick offers a 95/5 split on subscription income (compared to Twitch’s 50/50 for most creators) and shares ad revenue as well.
• Partner criteria: They look at your activity over the past 30 days, including streaming hours, subscriber count, chat participation, and average concurrent viewers.
• Payout methods: Stripe-powered payouts directly to your linked bank account.
• Why it’s worth considering: If monetization is a priority and you have an engaged audience ready to follow you, Kick’s revenue share is one of the best deals around.

Facebook Gaming

Facebook Gaming is a great option if you already have a Facebook following or want to reach communities where people are used to engaging in groups and pages.

• How you earn: By joining the Level Up program, you can receive Stars (Facebook’s tipping system), which fans buy and send during your streams. You can also offer paid fan subscriptions for recurring income.
• Payout methods: Bank transfer once your Star balance converts to your payout currency.
• Why it’s worth considering: Facebook’s massive user base and integrated sharing make it easy to bring in friends-of-friends and grow organically through your existing social network.

Rumble

Rumble positions itself as a creator-first platform, particularly appealing to niche or alternative content communities.

• How you earn: Most creators start with a 60/40 ad revenue split, with higher percentages possible for select partnerships. There’s also a 2025 creator program with extra incentives for consistent streaming and engagement.
• Payout methods: Monthly payments are available via a linked bank account or PayPal.
• Why it’s worth considering: With less competition than giant platforms, Rumble offers the potential for greater visibility, especially if your content fits a niche that’s underserved elsewhere.

Each of these platforms has its own flavor, audience, and payout structure. The key is to choose the one(s) that align with your content style and where your audience is most active. 

And remember, diversifying your presence can help you earn more and protect yourself if one platform changes its policies.

How to Maximize Streaming Income

Streaming is about going live for the world to see and building a sustainable income over time. No matter which platform (or platforms) you choose, these strategies can help you boost your earnings and create a reliable revenue stream.

• Diversify Your Platforms

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. If one platform changes its rules, has technical issues, or suspends your account, your income could stop overnight. Streaming on two or more platforms ensures you always have a backup and can reach different audiences.

• Multi-Stream for Wider Reach

Tools like Restream or Streamlabs Prime let you broadcast to multiple platforms at once. This way, you can be live on Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming simultaneously, maximizing your exposure without extra effort.

• Engage with Your Audience

People are more likely to subscribe, donate, or send gifts if they feel connected to you. Respond to chat messages, call out viewers by name, and make your community feel valued. Engagement directly impacts your income.

• Offer Multiple Ways to Support You

Use all available monetization features: subs, ad revenue, fan memberships, tips, merch, and affiliate links. Some viewers prefer recurring payments, while others will give one-time gifts. Having options means you can earn from both.

• Be Consistent with Your Schedule

A predictable streaming schedule helps you build a loyal audience. If people know when you’re going live, they can plan to watch, and regular viewers are more likely to support you financially.

• Promote Your Streams Outside the Platform

Don’t rely on algorithms alone. Use social media, Discord servers, and email newsletters to let people know when you’re live. Driving your own traffic increases your chances of getting more paying viewers.

• Track Your Earnings and Expenses

Treat streaming like a business. Keep clear records of your income from each platform and your related expenses. This not only helps with taxes but also shows you which platforms or strategies are bringing the most profit.

Why a US Business Account Beats Non-US or Personal Accounts

If you’re streaming to an audience in the US or using a platform that has its headquarters in the US, like Twitch, which is headquartered in San Francisco, California, chances are most of your payouts will be in USD. 

While you can receive those funds in a non-US or personal account, there are big advantages to using a US business account, especially if you’re serious about growing your streaming career.

• Faster Payouts from US Platforms

Platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Kick often process payments faster when sending to US-based accounts. You can skip the extra days (or even weeks) that international transfers sometimes take.

• Lower Currency Conversion Fees

If you’re paid in USD but your bank account is in another currency, you’ll usually pay conversion fees. A US account lets you keep your earnings in USD until you’re ready to convert, saving you money over time.

• Clean Business Bookkeeping

A business account separates your streaming income from personal funds, making it easier to track earnings and expenses. This is a lifesaver during tax season and helps keep your financial records clear.

• Professional Image for Brands and Sponsors

Having a business account shows potential sponsors that you treat streaming as a professional venture. It can make contract negotiations and payments smoother.

• Better Integration with Payment Platforms

Stripe, PayPal, and other payout processors often work more smoothly with US business accounts. This means fewer holds, fewer verification delays, and more reliable transfers.

• Easier Tax Compliance

If you plan to expand your business presence in the US, having a dedicated US business account makes it easier to manage tax filings, keep receipts organized, and meet compliance requirements.

Setting Up a US Business Account with Adro

Adro makes it simple for non-US streamers and business owners to open a US business account, no SSN or US residency required. Here’s how you can get started and start receiving your streaming payouts like a pro.

• Form Your US Business Entity

If you don’t already have one, you’ll need a US LLC or corporation. This step makes your business official and is required for opening your account. Adro can guide you through this process if you need help.

• Get Your EIN (Employer Identification Number)

The EIN is like a business tax ID. You’ll need it to open your account and to link with payment processors like Twitch, YouTube, and Stripe.

• Apply for an Adro Business Checking Account Online

You’ll provide your business details, upload the required documents, and verify your identity, all from anywhere in the world.

• Receive Your USD Business Account Details

Once approved, you’ll get your US account and routing numbers. These are what you’ll use to connect your account to streaming platforms and payout systems.

• Link Your Account to Streaming Platforms

Update your payout settings on Twitch, YouTube, Kick, or any other platform to send earnings directly to your Adro account. This ensures faster payouts and no unnecessary conversion fees.

• Enjoy the Extra Perks

Adro’s accounts come with FDIC insurance through Stearns Bank, 1% cashback on eligible USD purchases from your first swipe, no monthly fees, and free inbound USD wires. Plus, you’ll have access to responsive NYC-based chat and email support if you ever need help.

Final Thoughts

There’s never been a better time to grow your streaming business. If you want faster payouts, fewer fees, and cleaner finances, a US business account is the smart move.

Adro makes it easy for non-US creators to open a fully functional US account, connect it to their streaming platforms, and start getting paid like a pro.

Ready to take your streaming income to the next level? Open your Adro business account today and start receiving your payouts faster, smarter, and with more control over your earnings.