How to Set Up Tip Alerts on TikTok Live (2025)
Display real-time tip notifications on your TikTok Live streams. Accept CashApp, Venmo, PayPal, and more with automatic alerts.
TikTok Live has its own virtual gift system, but creators only receive a fraction of what viewers spend. External tip alerts let you accept CashApp, Venmo, PayPal, Ko-fi, and Buy Me a Coffee tips directly — keeping 95-100% of every dollar.
The challenge? TikTok Live doesn't support OBS browser sources natively like Twitch or YouTube. This guide covers the workarounds and best practices for getting tip alerts on your TikTok Live streams.
TikTok Gifts vs External Tips
| Feature | TikTok Gifts | External Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | 1,000+ followers, 18+ | None |
| You Keep | ~33-50% (TikTok takes 50-67%) | 95-100% |
| Payout | 30 days, $100 minimum | Instant |
| Custom Alerts | TikTok's built-in effects | Full customization (with OBS) |
The Revenue Gap
When a viewer sends a $10 TikTok gift, you receive only $3-5. When that same viewer sends $10 via CashApp, you keep all $10. That's 2-3x more revenue per dollar.
Setting Up Tips on TikTok Live
Method 1: TikTok Live with OBS (Desktop)
If you have TikTok Live Studio access or use OBS with TikTok's RTMP key, you can add tip alerts just like on Twitch:
- Set up Stream Alert
Create account → connect Gmail → add payment accounts
- Add browser source in OBS
Paste Stream Alert overlay URL into a Browser source
- Stream to TikTok via OBS
Use TikTok Live Studio or RTMP stream key
- Share payment info in TikTok bio
Add your Linktree or direct payment links to your TikTok profile
Method 2: Mobile-Only TikTok Live
If you stream from your phone without OBS, you can't add visual tip alerts directly to your stream. However, you can still use Stream Alert to:
- Track all tips in your Stream Alert dashboard
- Get push notifications when tips arrive so you can thank viewers verbally
- Mention tippers by name using your dashboard as a reference during stream
- Forward to StreamLabs/StreamElements for tip tracking and analytics
Pro Tip: Upgrade to desktop streaming (TikTok Live Studio or OBS) to unlock full visual tip alerts with animations and sounds.
TikTok-Specific Tips
Use Linktree in Your Bio
TikTok only allows one link in your bio. Use Linktree or a similar tool to list all your payment methods (CashApp, Venmo, Ko-fi, BMAC) in one place.
Mention Tips During Stream
TikTok doesn't have panels or chat commands like Twitch. Verbally remind viewers about tip options periodically and point them to your bio link.
Pin a Comment
Pin a comment in your live with your CashApp $cashtag and Venmo @username. Viewers can see it without leaving the stream.
Run Both Gifts AND Tips
Keep TikTok Gifts enabled for casual supporters while offering external tips for viewers who want more of their money to go to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tip alerts on TikTok Live without OBS?
Visual tip alerts require OBS or TikTok Live Studio (desktop). On mobile-only streams, you can track tips in your Stream Alert dashboard and thank tippers verbally.
Do I need 1,000 followers for external tips?
No. The 1,000 follower requirement is only for TikTok Gifts. External tips via CashApp, Venmo, and PayPal work for anyone who can go live.
How do I get a TikTok RTMP stream key?
TikTok Live Studio provides RTMP keys for eligible creators. You can also apply for third-party streaming access through TikTok's creator tools.
Is it against TikTok's rules to ask for external tips?
TikTok doesn't prohibit external tip links. However, avoid being overly promotional. Mention tip options naturally and focus on creating great content.
Start Accepting Tips on TikTok Live
Stop losing 50-67% to TikTok's gift system. Set up Stream Alert and keep 100% of CashApp and Venmo tips on your TikTok Live streams.