Add or remove access to your YouTube channel

Add or remove access to your YouTube channel

Add or remove access to your YouTube channel is essential for maintaining security and ensuring your team can effectively collaborate. Whether you’re adding a new editor, granting access to a manager, or removing someone who no longer needs access, YouTube’s permissions system makes it straightforward. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to help you.

Why Manage Access?

  • Collaboration: Allow team members to upload videos, edit details, or manage comments.
  • Security: Prevent unauthorized changes by granting the right level of access.
  • Convenience: Share responsibilities without sharing your login details.

Steps to Add Access to Your YouTube Channel

1. Switch to a Brand Account (if not already done)

YouTube’s permissions system works best with Brand Accounts. To check:

  • Go to YouTube Settings.
  • Click on “Advanced Settings” and see if your channel is linked to a Brand Account. If not, consider converting it.

2. Go to Permissions

  • Log in to YouTube Studio at studio.youtube.com.
  • Click on Settings in the left-hand menu.
  • Select Permissions from the dropdown list.

3. Invite Users

  • Click the Invite button.
  • Enter the email address of the person you want to add.
  • Assign a role from the following options:
    • Owner: Full control, including managing permissions.
    • Manager: Can edit channel details and upload content.
    • Editor: Can edit videos and details but cannot manage permissions.
    • Viewer: Can view details but cannot make changes.

4. Send the Invitation

  • Click Done after assigning the role. The invitee will receive an email to accept the invitation.

Steps to Remove Access

  1. Go to Permissions
    • Open YouTube Studio and navigate to Settings > Permissions.
  2. Locate the User
    • Find the person you want to remove from the list of users.
  3. Remove Access
    • Click the three dots next to their name.
    • Select Remove Access and confirm.

Best Practices for Add or remove access to your YouTube channel

  • Grant Minimum Necessary Permissions: Only give access needed for their role.
  • Review Permissions Regularly: Periodically audit who has access to your channel.
  • Use Secure Emails: Ensure invitees are using secure and verified email accounts.
  • Remove Access When Done: Immediately remove users who no longer need access.

Common Questions

1. Can I add someone without a Google account?

No, the person must have a Google account to be added.

2. What happens if I remove an owner?

If you remove an owner, they will lose all access. Ensure there’s at least one other owner assigned before removing anyone.

3. Can I transfer ownership of the channel?

Yes, you can assign another person as the primary owner, but this should be done with caution.


Add or remove access to your YouTube channel ensures smooth collaboration and protects your content. Follow these steps to maintain control and security while sharing responsibilities. Ready to update your permissions? Head to YouTube Studio and start managing access today!


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