Getting Started on Twitch

Before you hit that “Go Live” button, there are some important things you’ll want to set up to make your Twitch journey successful. You’ll need a stable setup, basic software, and accounts in place — not just to stream, but to actually get paid for it when support begins coming your way.

You don’t have to be a Twitch Partner to start generating money. Viewers who enjoy your content will often want to support you, and with the right tools in place, you can begin accepting donations and generating affiliate revenue from the start. Below is a list of startup steps — each one will be linked to a more detailed breakdown as this site continues to grow.

1. Create a Twitch account and secure your channel name.
2. Ensure your computer has enough RAM and a capable GPU.
3. Set up dual monitors or a second device to manage your stream tools separately.
4. Download and install OBS (Open Broadcaster Software).
5. Test your microphone and webcam, and configure basic scenes in OBS.
6. Create a Linktree profile to host your donation options and social links.
7. Create new social media accounts under your Twitch persona (not personal name).
8. Connect all those accounts to one single, clean email used only for streaming.
9. Sign up for the Amazon Associates Affiliate Program.
10. Build your own webpage (like this one) to act as your donation hub and gear showcase.
11. Set up CashApp, Venmo, or PayPal for viewer donations (include links on your Linktree).
12. Install chat moderation bots like StreamElements or Nightbot.
13. Begin building your content schedule and decide what kind of persona you want to present on Twitch.