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If you are a TikTok creator, the past year likely felt unstable. Searches like “is TikTok getting banned on January 19th 2025” and “will TikTok get banned in 2025” dominated conversations, while major policy updates quietly reshaped how creators earn and operate. Now, clarity has finally arrived.
On January 22, 2026, TikTok finalized a deal with US-based investors, securing its future in the United States. At the same time, the policy changes rolled out in July and September 2025 are now fully active. Together, these developments mark a new phase for creators. TikTok is staying, but the rules have changed, and adapting is no longer optional.
This guide explains what really happened, the updates that matter most, and how you can protect your income and stay compliant as a TikTok creator in 2026.
The TikTok ban that never happened
Throughout 2025, creators lived with constant uncertainty. In April 2024, the US government passed legislation requiring ByteDance to divest from TikTok or face a ban by January 19, 2025. As the deadline approached, many creators rushed to build backup audiences on Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts.
On January 18, 2025, TikTok briefly went offline in the US, triggering panic across the creator economy. Businesses relying on TikTok Shop and live gifting watched their income disappear overnight. However, the shutdown was temporary. After a change in administration, enforcement of the ban was paused multiple times while negotiations continued.
That uncertainty finally ended in January 2026. TikTok formed a joint venture with US investors, including Oracle and Silver Lake, while ByteDance reduced its ownership to under 20%. US user data is now stored domestically, and the recommendation algorithm is being retrained using American data. For creators, this means stability. Long-term planning is possible again.
Tiktok’s policy changes that directly affect creators
While the ban dominated headlines, TikTok introduced several policy updates in 2025 that now define how creators operate.
1. Stricter branded content and body image rules
TikTok now restricts branded content that promotes unrealistic physical transformation. Before-and-after visuals, body reshaping filters, and exaggerated claims are no longer allowed, especially in fitness, beauty, and wellness niches.
Creators can still work in these spaces, but messaging must focus on balance, wellbeing, and realistic outcomes. This shift encourages authenticity while protecting viewers from harmful expectations.
2. Expanded list of prohibited industries
Certain industries are completely banned from TikTok branded content tools. These include pharmaceutical products, some medical treatments, and religious or spiritual products promoted for profit. Accepting partnerships in these categories can result in content removal or account penalties.
As a result, creators must vet brand offers carefully. If a product makes medical-level claims or falls into restricted categories, it is safer to decline than risk your account.
3. Tighter rules for regulated industries on Tiktok
Industries like alcohol, financial services, dating apps, and over-the-counter medications are still allowed but face stricter compliance requirements. Content must include age restrictions, clear disclosures, and region-specific legal considerations.
For finance creators especially, unclear claims or missing disclosures can quickly lead to reduced reach or penalties. Responsibility now sits firmly with both creators and brands.
4. TikTok Live rules 2025
Live gifting rules changed significantly. Only users aged 18 or older can send or receive gifts, and creators can no longer ask viewers to send gifts during livestreams. Any form of solicitation, including gift goals or countdowns, can trigger penalties.
To adapt, creators must focus on delivering value through education, entertainment, and community interaction. Gifting should happen organically, not through prompts.
Additionally, creators need at least 1,000 followers to go live and must be 16 years old, or 18 for gifting. These changes raise quality standards while encouraging more responsible monetization.
5. Mandatory commercial content disclosure
Disclosure enforcement is now strict. Any sponsored or commercial content must use TikTok’s built-in disclosure tools. Undisclosed content may be suppressed in the For You feed or removed entirely.
TikTok’s systems actively scan videos for brand mentions and promotional language. If commercial intent is detected without proper labeling, creators have limited time to fix it before facing penalties. When in doubt, disclosure is always the safer option.
6. AI-generated content labeling
Creators must label AI-generated or heavily edited content that depicts realistic people or scenes. This includes voice cloning, synthetic avatars, and deepfake-style edits. Unlabeled AI content that could mislead viewers is subject to removal.
While future guidelines may expand commercial AI use, creators should proceed cautiously and label clearly.
7. Preference for TikTok shop over external links
TikTok now prioritizes content that keeps transactions within the platform, especially in regions where TikTok Shop operates. Videos directing viewers to external websites may see reduced visibility.
This does not mean abandoning external sales channels, but creators should treat TikTok Shop as a primary tool for in-app reach and discovery.
8. Stricter copyright enforcement
Copyright rules, especially for music during livestreams, are tighter. Playing copyrighted music without permission can result in muted streams or takedowns. Business accounts face even stricter limitations, requiring strategic decisions around account type.
How these updates change your workflow
1. Smarter brand vetting
Creators must now evaluate compliance risk alongside payment and creative fit. Ask brands clear questions about product categories, claims, and disclosure expectations. Partnerships that pressure you to ignore policy rules are not worth the risk.
2. Rethinking live content
Successful live creators now focus on interaction, education, and community value rather than gift-driven sessions. This approach aligns with TikTok’s direction and builds longer-term audience loyalty.
3. Making disclosure a habit
Disclosure should be part of your default workflow. Build a simple checklist before posting to ensure all commercial content is properly labeled. This small habit protects your reach and account health.
4. Auditing existing content
Older videos may no longer comply with current policies. Reviewing and removing high-risk content reduces future enforcement issues and protects your account long term.
5. Staying adaptable
With new ownership in place, TikTok’s policies will continue evolving. Creators who stay informed and flexible will adapt faster and protect their income streams.
How Cleva helps creators earn easily on Tiktok
Earning is only part of the journey. Receiving your money efficiently matters just as much. TikTok income often comes from multiple sources, including Creator Fund payouts, TikTok Shop commissions, brand deals, and live gifts. Traditional banks can make this process expensive and slow.
High transfer fees, poor exchange rates, and long processing times reduce earnings and disrupt cash flow. For creators managing editors, equipment, or ads, these delays can stall growth.
Cleva is designed for digital professionals earning across borders. ACH transfer fees are reduced to between $1 and $3, compared to the much higher costs charged by traditional banks. Multi-currency accounts allow creators to receive, hold, and convert funds without juggling multiple bank accounts.
Cleva also offers transparent exchange rates and fast processing, giving creators quicker access to their earnings. This flexibility supports better planning and reinvestment as your creator business grows.
Thriving as a TikTok Creator in 2026
TikTok is no longer facing an imminent ban. Instead, it is entering a more regulated and structured era. The creators who succeed in 2026 will be those who understand the rules, adapt their strategies, and protect both their accounts and income.
Stay compliant with branded content policies, approach livestreaming with authenticity, and treat disclosure as standard practice. At the same time, ensure your payment setup supports your work rather than slowing it down.
The platform survived its most uncertain period. Now, with the right strategy and tools, creators can focus on what matters most: building sustainable careers and creating content that resonates. . To make the most of your earnings along the way, you can sign up for Cleva and set up a faster, more flexible way to receive your creator income.
