X mandates internal X Money service for US creator payouts
Elon Musk’s social network has terminated its reliance on Stripe for domestic creator earnings, mandating that all payments now flow exclusively through X Money. The shift marks a definitive move toward consolidating financial infrastructure within the platform, effectively removing previous third-party processing options for US-based content contributors.
By Business Faces·September 2, 2026·2 min read·535 reads
The transition promises instant access to funds, eliminating the rigid two-week billing cycles and the prior $30 minimum threshold that previously governed payouts. Creators currently enrolled in the Original Content Rewards Program or subscription services will see their earnings deposited directly into their X Money accounts. For those already utilizing the service, the change occurs automatically without additional configuration.
This update coincides with a broader restructuring of the platform’s creator economy. X is phasing out its Creator Revenue Sharing Program on September 7, migrating participants into the Original Content Rewards Program, which prioritizes exclusive material. While X Money offers features like 3% cash back and fee-free ATM withdrawals, the platform functions through a partnership with the FDIC-insured Cross River Bank rather than operating as an independent financial institution.
Beyond payment speed, the integration serves as a vehicle for user retention. Payouts processed via X Money count toward the direct deposit requirements necessary to unlock higher interest rates. Users with X Premium subscriptions currently qualify for a 6% APY, outpacing the standard 4% rate. To maintain compliance, the company will issue 1099-NEC forms for individuals, requiring LLCs to submit W-9 information to ensure accurate tax reporting.
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