You Can Now Make INR 2,85,000 on X Posting Videos: But There's a Catch

X is testing a new creator incentive programme that offers selected users a fixed $3,000 bonus, approximately Rs 2.85 lakh, for publishing original short videos. Called the Video Kickstart Bonus, the invite-only pilot aims to encourage more vertical video content as X competes with TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts.

Unlike traditional creator monetisation programmes, the payout is not linked to views, likes or engagement. Instead, creators must meet specific video publishing targets within a 30-day campaign period. However, there is a catch: the programme is currently available only to invited creators.

How to Make Rs 2.85 Lakhs on X By Creating Videos?

Under the Video Kickstart Bonus, selected creators can qualify for a fixed $3,000 payout by meeting the following requirements:

• Publish at least 15 videos: Creators must post a minimum of 15 eligible videos during the campaign.
• Post on 15 different days: Each video must be published on a separate day.
• Complete the target within 30 days: All required videos must be published during the campaign period.
• Use vertical video formats: Videos must be vertical and under three minutes long.
• Create original content: Videos must be created by the person posting them and comply with X's content requirements.

Unlike engagement-based rewards, the bonus does not require creators to reach a specific number of views, likes or interactions, according to the publicly shared pilot details.

X Video Kickstart Bonus Eligibility Details

The programme is currently invite-only, meaning creators cannot simply sign up and start earning. X has not publicly disclosed the complete criteria it uses to select participants.

Invited creators can find the programme under the Programmes section of Creator Studio and enrol before the October 30, 2026, deadline.

It is important to distinguish this pilot from X's separate Original Content Rewards programme. Requirements such as an X Premium subscription, 500 verified followers and 500,000 impressions apply to that separate programme and should not automatically be treated as eligibility conditions for Video Kickstart Bonus.

What's the Catch? Can You Reuse Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts?

Although the $3,000 bonus sounds attractive, creators should consider a few conditions before participating.

1. Invitations are mandatory: The programme is not open to everyone. Creators must receive an invitation from X to participate.

2. Consistent posting is required: Publishing 15 eligible videos across 15 different days within 30 days requires a regular content schedule.

3. Originality matters: Simply reposting someone else's content may not qualify. Commentary videos may be eligible when creators add meaningful original value to material from other sources.

4. Existing videos may qualify: Creators can potentially reuse their own Instagram Reels, TikTok videos or YouTube Shorts, provided the clips do not carry platform watermarks and meet X's originality requirements. Removing a watermark alone does not guarantee eligibility.

5. Payment conditions still apply: Although the bonus is not based on engagement, creators should check the complete campaign terms in Creator Studio for any additional qualification and payment requirements.

Why Is X Paying Creators to Make Short Videos?

X is looking to strengthen its video offering as short-form content becomes increasingly important across social media platforms. The Video Kickstart Bonus could encourage creators who primarily publish on Instagram Reels, TikTok or YouTube Shorts to post more frequently on X.

For Indian creators, the approximately Rs 2.85 lakh incentive could be attractive to those producing technology explainers, product reviews, news updates, educational videos and commentary. However, the rupee value is approximate and may vary with exchange rates and applicable payment terms.

When Is the Last Date to Join X Video Kickstart Bonus?

Invited creators must enrol by October 30, 2026, according to the publicly shared programme details. They must then complete the required video publishing target within their 30-day campaign period.

Creators should check Creator Studio for their individual campaign dates and complete terms before participating.

Will X Video Kickstart Bonus Be Available to Everyone?

For now, the Video Kickstart Bonus remains an invite-only pilot rather than a public monetisation programme. X has not confirmed whether it will expand access or make the incentive permanent.

While the fixed payout offers an alternative to engagement-based monetisation, creators must receive an invitation and consistently publish original videos to qualify. Those who have not received an invitation will have to wait for further updates from X.