Google AdX (Google Ad Exchange) is a premium programmatic advertising platform that allows publishers to sell their ad inventory to a wide range of advertisers through real-time bidding. After you start monetizing your site through AdX, one of the key aspects you’ll need to understand is how the payment process works.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the AdX payment method, how payments are made, and the important details publishers need to know about their earnings, payment cycles, and options.
1. Payment Method for Google AdX
Google AdX payments are processed through Google’s AdSense account, which is where the actual payment will be made. This is because AdSense and AdX are integrated, meaning that AdX revenue is handled and paid through AdSense, not separately.
Steps Involved in AdX Payment:
- Revenue Earned through AdX: As a publisher, you earn revenue when advertisers bid on your ad inventory through AdX. These earnings are aggregated and reflected in your AdSense account, specifically under the “AdX” tab if you have been approved for AdX.
- Payment Method Set Up in AdSense: To receive payments for your AdX earnings, you must have a valid payment method set up in your AdSense account. Common payment options include:
- Direct Bank Transfer (Wire Transfer): This is the most common method, where your earnings are transferred directly to your bank account.
- Checks: In some countries, Google can issue checks for payment, though this is becoming less common.
- Western Union Quick Cash: Available in select countries, this method allows for cash payments through Western Union.
- Payment Threshold: Google has a minimum payment threshold of $100 USD for AdSense and AdX earnings combined. This means you need to have earned at least $100 before Google will issue a payment. If your earnings do not reach this threshold in a given month, they will roll over to the next month.
- Payment Cycle: Google pays publishers on a monthly cycle, with payments typically processed around the 21st of each month. However, it may take up to 5 business days for payments to clear, depending on your payment method and country.
- Payment Processing Delay: Payments are processed at the end of each month, but if your earnings for the month do not reach the minimum payout threshold ($100), your payment will be carried over to the next month until you meet the threshold.
- Payment Reporting: You can view your AdX earnings in your AdSense account, where Google provides detailed reports about your earnings, including the amount earned from AdX and other ad sources. This report will break down your earnings by date, ad unit, and other factors.
2. Important Factors to Know About AdX Payments
Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when it comes to the payment method for Google AdX:
a. Revenue Aggregation Across Networks
- Your total earnings in AdSense include revenue from both AdSense and AdX, as both are part of the Google network. Google will combine both sources into one payment, so if you are using AdX and AdSense together, you’ll receive a single payment for both.
b. Account Hold/Payment Adjustments
- Google may hold payments or make adjustments to your earnings if there are issues such as invalid traffic, policy violations, or payment errors. Always ensure your website follows Google’s policies and avoids practices that could lead to penalties or withheld earnings.
c. AdX and Multiple Networks
- If you are using other demand sources (such as header bidding partners), AdX will still handle its payments through AdSense. You’ll receive separate payments from other networks according to their terms, but AdX payments will always be handled through AdSense.
d. Tax Information and Withholding
- Google requires publishers to submit tax information (e.g., W-9 form for U.S. publishers) to ensure proper withholding of taxes. If your tax information is incomplete or incorrect, Google may withhold a portion of your earnings. Make sure to update this information in your AdSense account to avoid delays.
e. Currency Conversion
- If you are in a country where the default currency is not USD, Google will convert your earnings to your local currency based on the current exchange rate. This means that your earnings may be subject to currency fluctuations depending on the country you are based in.
3. How to Set Up Your Payment Information in Google AdSense
Here’s how you can set up and manage your payment information in AdSense:
- Sign in to your AdSense account.
- Click on “Payments” from the left-hand menu.
- Click “Manage Payment Methods”.
- Here you can either:
- Add a new payment method (bank transfer, check, or Western Union Quick Cash, depending on availability in your country).
- Edit existing payment methods or change your payment threshold if applicable.
4. When Will You Get Paid?
- Payment Timeline: Payments are issued at the end of the month and usually arrive by the 21st of the next month. However, payment processing can take a few extra business days, depending on your selected payment method and bank.
- Payment Threshold: Google only issues payments once you have earned at least $100 USD. If you don’t reach the minimum threshold, your earnings will carry over to the next month.
5. Troubleshooting Payment Issues
If you’re experiencing issues with your payments, such as a delay or failure to receive funds, check the following:
- Account Status: Ensure that your AdSense account is in good standing and that there are no policy violations affecting payments.
- Payment Information: Verify that your payment details (bank account, tax information, etc.) are correct and up to date.
- Threshold Met: Ensure that you’ve met the minimum payout threshold of $100.
If issues persist, you can contact Google support for assistance, especially if payments are delayed beyond the expected period.
Conclusion: Understanding the AdX Payment Method
The AdX payment method is straightforward, as payments are processed through your Google AdSense account. Once your site is approved for AdX and you start generating revenue, you’ll receive payments monthly through your preferred payment method, typically through direct bank transfer or other available options. Always ensure that your payment details are accurate and that you meet the minimum payout threshold for a smooth payment experience.