X Cuts Out Stripe: The Push for Vertical Integration in Creator Payouts
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Elon Musk is migrating U.S. creator payments to X Money, signaling a move to control the full financial stack of the 'everything app.'
Q: What is the core change X is implementing regarding creator payments?
A: As TechCrunch first reported, X announced on September 2, 2026, that all creator payouts in the U.S. are now handled through X Money, the platform's own payments service. This migration affects payouts from creators' subscriptions as well as the Original Content Rewards Program.
Q: Who was previously handling these transactions, and how does the new system differ?
A: TechCrunch reports that the prior payout method was powered by Stripe. Under the Stripe system, payments were processed every two weeks and required a minimum payout of $30. The new X Money system allows for instant payments, removing the wait for billing cycles and eliminating the minimum payout threshold.
Q: Is this a voluntary transition for creators?
A: TechCrunch notes that the wording of X's announcement suggests creators are being forced to use X Money, as there appear to be no other options for receiving payments on the platform.
Q: How does X Money function technically, and is it a bank?
A: While X Money is the interface for these services, TechCrunch clarifies that X Money is not a bank; accounts are held at Cross River Bank, which is FDIC-insured. The service is part of Elon Musk's goal to transform X into an "everything app," offering digital banking services, free ATM withdrawals, and a bank card featuring 3% cash back.
Q: Are there financial incentives for creators to use X Money?
A: Yes. TechCrunch reports that creator payouts will count toward the direct deposit requirements needed to secure higher APY rates. Specifically, X Premium users can receive a boosted 6% rate, while the standard rate is 4%.
Q: What other changes are happening to X's creator monetization programs?
A: TechCrunch reports that X will retire its Creator Revenue Sharing Program on September 7, noting that the program stopped accepting new members last month. Creators are being transitioned to the Original Content Rewards Program, which places a greater emphasis on original content.
Q: What are the tax implications of this shift?
A: X will issue 1099-NEC forms for individuals receiving payouts. For those operating as LLCs, TechCrunch reports that X will collect W-9 information to ensure the accuracy of these 1099s.