In 2025, Instagram will no longer be just a photo sharing app. If you use it the right way then Instagram can become a great source of income. This article provides an overview of the top and easiest ways to make money on Instagram.
Utilize Instagram’s Built-in Monetization Features
Instagram now allows content creators to earn directly from their platform. You will get the benefit from these Instagram features if you have a loyal following.
Instagram Subscriptions
This method allows you to share exclusive content with your Instagram followers. It may include private stories, reels, live videos or group chats. Your IG followers pay you monthly to view these additional posts.
To use this Instagram feature:
- You must be 18 years old or older.
- You must have an Instagram Creator or Business account.
- You must have at least 10,000 IG followers.
Gifts on Reels
You can receive virtual gifts from your Instagram followers when they enjoy your Reels. These are small icons that people buy using ‘Stars’ and you get paid for each Star you receive.
To qualify:
- You must have a Creator or Business account.
- You must have at least 500 Instagram followers.
Live Badges
When you go live on Instagram, your viewers can send you badges. Badges function similarly to digital tips, expressing gratitude with a simple ‘thank you.’ Each badge costs a small amount and you receive the full amount.
To be eligible:
- You must be 18 years or older.
- You need at least 10,000 Insta followers.
Instagram Bonuses
Instagram gives creators the chance to earn money when they reach milestones, such as getting a certain number of views or likes on their Reels. These bonus programs run by invitation only, which means Instagram selects who can join.
Instagram Brand Partnerships and Paid Promotions
Working with brands is one of the most common ways for Instagram creators to earn income. This is called influencer marketing and it is growing fast in 2025. When you share a product in your Instagram posts, stories or reels then brands will pay you.
Sponsored Posts and Brand Deals
Brands pay you to promote their products when your Instagram community is active. You don’t have to be famous to get these partnerships. All you need is engaged followers who are interested in your niche.
Earnings can vary:
- Creators with 1,000 to 10,000 Instagram followers can earn between $10 and $100 for each post..
- Bigger creators with millions of IG followers may earn several thousand dollars per post.
Affiliate Marketing
You can earn money by promoting products and sharing a link or discount code with your Instagram followers. When someone makes a purchase through your link, you receive a small commission from the sale.
You can:
- Add links in your Stories
- Share a discount code
- Use a bio link tool to list more than one product
Instagram Creator Marketplace
Instagram has a tool called the Creator Marketplace that connects creators with brands. You can apply to join the marketplace and if Instagram approves your application then you will begin to receive partnership offers directly inside the app.
Selling Products and Services to Your Instagram Followers
Many Instagram creators also make money by selling their own products and services.
Instagram Shop
This feature lets you create a shop right on your Instagram profile. You can list your products and tag them in your Instagram posts and stories. Your followers can tap and shop these products without leaving the app.
This is perfect if you sell:
- Clothing
- Art
- Handmade items
- Beauty products
Sell Digital Products
A digital product is an item that can be downloaded, such as:
- Online courses
- E-books
- Design templates
- Photo filters
Digital products are easy to sell because you only need to create them once and then you can continue selling them many times. Just add a link in your Instagram bio so followers can easily buy them.
Coaching or Consulting
If you have expertise in a particular area, such as fitness, writing or business then you can coach others by using Instagram to highlight your knowledge. Share posts, reels and stories that show your skills and build trust with your audience. Once people see the value you provide, you can invite them to join paid coaching sessions.
