When Does Distrokid Pay?

For independent artists and musicians, getting paid for their work is a critical part of sustaining their careers. Distrokid is one of the more popular music distribution services that helps artists get their music on all major streaming platforms. But a common question among its users is: "When does Distrokid pay?" In this article, we will dive deep into Distrokid’s payment process, how it works, and what you need to know about getting paid for your music.

The Payment Process

Before we get into the specifics of when Distrokid pays, it's essential to understand the payment process involved. As a music distribution platform, Distrokid collects royalties from streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and others on behalf of the artists.

Once your music is streamed or downloaded, each platform calculates the royalties earned and sends this information to Distrokid. This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the platform. Distrokid then processes these earnings and makes them available to the artist's account.

Distrokid claims to pay artists monthly, but the exact timing can vary based on the delays from the streaming platforms. Here are some factors influencing the payout timing:

• Streaming Platform Reporting: Different streaming services report royalties on different schedules. For example, Spotify may report earnings 45 days after the end of the month in which the streams occurred, while Apple Music might take 60 days. These lag times mean that even though Distrokid pays out monthly, the earnings reported could be from streams that occurred several months prior.
• Earnings Threshold: Distrokid has an earnings threshold that you must meet before you can withdraw funds. If your earnings are below this threshold, the payment will rollover to the next month.
• Payment Method: The payment method you choose can also influence payout timings. Distrokid offers several payment options like PayPal, direct deposit, and more. Some methods have quicker processing times than others.

Improving Your Royalty Streams

Understanding when and how you get paid is only part of the equation. To maximize your earnings, you need to focus on increasing your streams and downloads. Here are a few tips on how to achieve that:

• Promote Your Music: Use social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to promote your releases. Collaborate with influencers and other artists for greater reach.
• Create a Content Strategy: Regularly share engaging content with your fans, such as behind-the-scenes footage, live performances, and exclusive interviews. This keeps your audience engaged and encourages more streams.
• Utilize SoundOn: By registering as a SoundOn artist, you can leverage exclusive marketing and distribution services to amplify your reach. Sign up here: SoundOn.

Alternate Distributors

While Distrokid is a popular choice, it is not the only music distribution service available. Others like TuneCore, CD Baby, and Amuse offer similar services. Each has its own unique features and payment schedules. Be sure to research each option to determine which service best meets your needs.

Conclusion

Receiving payments from Distrokid involves understanding the timing of royalty reports from streaming platforms, meeting the earnings threshold, and choosing the right payment method. By promoting your music effectively and engaging with your audience, you can maximize your streams and, consequently, your earnings. Remember, a successful music career involves both creating great music and managing the business side effectively.

Take Control of Your Music Career

Whether you're new to the industry or an established artist, choosing the right distribution platform is vital for your success. While Distrokid offers many advantages, consider exploring other options like SoundOn to see how they can help elevate your music career.