Getting paid on Chaturbate in New Zealand

Short answer: Chaturbate pays models twice a month, within seven days after each pay period, at a fixed US$0.05 per token. For most payout methods the minimum is US$50. From New Zealand the most practical options are an e-wallet such as Paxum or Cosmo Payment, which you then transfer to your NZ bank, or an international bank wire straight to your account. Below you'll find the pay periods, minimums, fees, how long each method takes and what to do when a payment doesn't arrive.

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How much is a token worth to a model?

Every token you receive is worth US$0.05, whatever the viewer paid for it. Chaturbate takes its commission when the viewer buys tokens, so the balance in your Token Stats is already your share. 1,000 tokens is US$50 (about NZ$85 at US$1 ≈ NZ$1.70); 20,000 tokens is US$1,000. Viewer prices and the full token table are in Chaturbate tokens: prices in NZD and what they're worth.

Pay periods and payment dates

• 1st to 15th of the month: paid out around the 22nd.
• 16th to the end of the month: paid out around the 7th of the next month.

Payments are sent within seven days after a period ends. Chaturbate works on US Mountain Time, so with New Zealand being a day ahead, money sometimes appears a day later than you'd expect from the date. You get an email when a payment has been sent.

If you don't reach the minimum in a period, your balance simply rolls over to the next one. Converted tokens don't expire.

Payout methods for New Zealand models

Fees and minimums change from time to time; the current figures are always in your account under the payment settings. Payoneer is no longer supported. Direct deposit is only available in the United States.

Which method is best from New Zealand?

For most Kiwi models an e-wallet such as Paxum or Cosmo Payment works best: the money arrives on payment day, the fee is small, and you transfer it to your ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Westpac, Kiwibank or other NZ account whenever you like. Compare the exchange rate the e-wallet gives you with your bank's, because that's where most of the cost sits. A bank wire costs a flat fee per payment, plus whatever your own bank charges for an incoming international transfer, so it only makes sense when you're paid large amounts.

Daily payouts

Once you've had a few regular payouts, you can apply for daily payouts in the Token Stats tab. Approval takes one to three days. Daily payouts are processed on working days (Monday to Friday, US time), from US$20, with a fee of US$3.95 per payout on top of any fee for your payout method. Handy when you're starting out; once you earn steadily, the twice-monthly payout is cheaper.

Is it discreet?

Yes. Payments from Chaturbate come from a neutral sender. Cheques arrive in an envelope from "Crosstown Services LLC", not "Chaturbate", and e-wallet transfers show the e-wallet's name on your bank statement.

Changing your payment details

You set your payout method in your broadcaster account. For some changes you need to contact Chaturbate support. For a bank wire you'll need the account holder's name, the bank's name and address, your account number and the bank's SWIFT/BIC code (New Zealand doesn't use IBAN). Change your details well before the end of a pay period, so your next payment goes to the right place.

Why haven't I been paid?

• You didn't reach the minimum for your method; the balance moves to the next period.
• Your identity or tax details aren't fully approved yet.
• Your payment details are incomplete or wrong, for example a typo in the account number or SWIFT code.
• A cheque couldn't be delivered and went back to Chaturbate; you'll get an email asking for a new address.

If none of these apply, contact Chaturbate support with your username and the pay period.

Tax on your earnings in New Zealand

Your Chaturbate income is taxable. Most models are self-employed in the eyes of Inland Revenue, for example as a sole trader, and declare it in an IR3 return. Keep a record of every payout in US dollars and the NZ dollar amount you received; your gear, lighting and part of your internet costs may be deductible business expenses. If your turnover goes above NZ$60,000 in twelve months, you also need to look at GST. An accountant who knows self-employed income can save you a lot of hassle.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum payout on Chaturbate?

US$50 for most methods, US$20 for daily payouts, and higher for a bank wire.

Can I be paid in NZ dollars?

No, Chaturbate pays in US dollars. Your e-wallet or bank converts it to NZ dollars.

Does Chaturbate pay out to PayPal?

No, PayPal isn't a payout option.

How long does a payout take?

E-wallets and Bitcoin on payment day, a bank wire a few working days, an international cheque two to six weeks.

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