As we all know by now, Instagram has been competing with TikTok over video creation for months. Now, Instagram is taking the next step up to lure creators to their Reels feature. Introducing Reels Play Bonus Program, a program that can pay creators up to $20,000 for using the Reels feature. The incentive here is to get creators off TikTok and onto Instagram. If there’s interest in this incentive, keep reading to learn how to apply.

What Monetization Tool is Coming?

Instagram is introducing a monetization tool as a contest. The Reels Play Bonus Program, also known as Reels Surprise Contest, is a challenge for any and all creators. The program is giving away upwards of thousands of dollars. In addition, it contains a number of requirements that must be met to be considered for the reward.

Instagram Reels Play Bonus Program

This program is still testing its algorithms, so it may not be rolling out for everyone just yet. However, for those of you who can take advantage of this program, it is a challenge worth accepting. You will earn money directly from Instagram basing off how well your reel or reels perform.

How It Works

There are a few things to keep in mind when creating and sharing your Reels on Instagram. First, you want to keep creating and sharing your reels publicly on your account. Next, if you qualify for the program, Instagram will send you a notification inviting you to view the Professional Dashboard. This is where you’ll have to set up bonuses to your account if you have yet to do so in order to start receiving earnings. Once you’ve set up those bonuses, you will receive notifications on future bonus opportunities. Finally, your reels will display a label that others can see.

What Are The Do’s and Don’ts?

Instagram is expressing what are things that you should and shouldn’t do in order to get that feature. Here are some do’s and don’ts.

Do:

• Post something entertaining and fun – something that grabs peoples’ attention, makes them laugh, or has a surprise or twist
• Is inspiring – start a trend!
• Use Instagram’s creative tools – tools include text, filters, and camera effects – this one is strongly encouraged
• Use vertical ratio – the specified ratio is 9×16
• Add music from Instagram’s music library and/or original audio you create
• Post something experimental – try something new and be yourself

Don’t

• Post a blurry video due to low resolution
• Use something that contains watermarks
• Post something with a border around it

Rules and Eligibility

Now that you know what you should post, there are some rules you must follow in order to qualify. Once the Reels Play Bonus Program becomes available to you, you will have 30 days to choose to get started. After you start, you have 30 days to earn. You can choose as many reels as you want to count towards your earnings. After that, you’ll earn bonuses based on your reels’ performance.

Before you share your Reel, be sure you select the Reels Play Bonus from the Bonuses page. If you forget to activate the bonus, you have 24 hours to go back and select it. You’ll be able to see the bonus progress on the progress page under the Bonus settings. Instagram pays out monthly, so be sure to get those bonuses before the payout! Lastly, you will have to be based in the U.S., at least 18 years old, and meet Instagram’s policies.

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