TikTok Account Types: Choose the Right Setup for Growth

Choosing the right account type gives you the tools and flexibility to scale your content and reach the right audience. Whether you're a solo creator, a growing brand, or part of an organisation, your account type influences how you engage with users, run promotions, and drive business growth.

Thinking about which TikTok account type is best for you? Whether you're a brand, creator, or team, choosing the right setup directly impacts your ability to engage, grow, and monetize. In this guide, we'll break down the differences between Personal, Business, and Organisation accounts — and how each supports your content strategy, audience, and overall business growth.

TikTok currently offers three account types:

  • Personal Account (includes creator tools)
  • Business Account
  • Organisation Account

Each account is tailored to different user needs — from individual creators to teams managing a brand's TikTok presence.

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This is TikTok's standard account type for individual users — including influencers and emerging TikTok creators. TikTok no longer uses "Creator Account" as a separate option, but creator tools are available to eligible Personal Accounts.

  • Access to trending sounds and high quality commercial music
  • Monetisation tools like the Creator Fund, LIVE gifts, and tipping
  • Native engagement features: Duet, Stitch, Q&A, etc.
  • Basic analytics and audience insights
  • Video scheduling via desktop (region-dependent)
Note

Not all Personal Accounts automatically get creator tools, eligibility depends on your age, location, and follower count. You’ll also need 1,000+ followers to add a clickable link in your bio.

If you're a content creator focusing on trends, building your brand, and boosting video views, this is your best bet.

Business Accounts are ideal for promoting products or services, running TikTok competitions, or launching paid ad campaigns.

  • Access to TikTok Ads Manager for paid campaigns
  • Advanced analytics through the Business Suite
  • Access to the TikTok Shop (in eligible markets)
  • Use of the Commercial Music Library (copyright-safe audio)
  • Website and contact buttons in your profile

You’ll lose access to trending music and some native engagement tools.

Want to attract new customers and grow your customer base? Try running a TikTok giveaway with Gleam's powerful giveaway software. Integrate easily, verify actions, and reward participants across your favourite social media platforms.

Organisation Accounts are designed for teams managing TikTok content collaboratively. Common among universities, non-profits, and companies including charities or public institutions.

  • Shared login with permission-based controls
  • Account ownership protections and secure access
  • Access to business tools like the Commercial Music Library
  • Governance tools for managing teams and approvals
Note

Organisation Accounts may not support all creator or monetisation features. They are focused on collaborative content management and brand safety.

This type supports product development, cross-department collaboration, and structured campaigns with content approval flows.

Choosing the right account type depends on your goals, target markets, and content approach:

  • Personal Account: For creators and influencers growing organically through trends, music, and community features.
  • Business Account: For brands promoting products and services, running ads, and building structured growth through data.
  • Organisation Account: For teams managing content securely across departments or projects.

Many TikTok users start with Personal Accounts, then upgrade as their needs evolve.

Curious how creators and brands use Gleam to run TikTok contests? Explore TikTok Competitions with Gleam and start engaging your audience with giveaways, instant win campaigns, and verified actions that comply with TikTok’s terms of service.

You can switch between account types at any time. Here’s how:

  1. Open the TikTok app and go to your profile
  2. Tap the three lines in the top-right corner
  3. Go to Settings and privacy > Account
  4. Tap Switch to Business Account or Switch to Organisation Account
  5. Follow the prompts to confirm your account type
  • Go to Settings and privacy > Account
  • Tap Switch to Personal Account
Note

When switching from a Business or Organisation Account back to Personal, you’ll regain access to trending music and creator tools, but lose access to business-specific features like Ads Manager and website buttons.

No matter which account type you choose, Gleam helps you amplify your TikTok strategy:

  • Run TikTok competitions that go viral
  • Reward users for creating user generated content
  • Grow your email list and collect verified contact information
  • Incentivise shares, follows, and engagement on your TikTok videos

Ready to grow your TikTok presence?
Start your first TikTok giveaway or contest in minutes with Gleam’s TikTok integration.

What’s The Difference Between A Personal And Business TikTok Account?

A Personal Account includes access to creator tools and trending audio, while Business Accounts provide access to ads, analytics, and commerce tools.


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Can I Run Giveaways From A Business TikTok Account?

Yes! Business Accounts are ideal for running verified giveaways or contests with tools like Gleam to track entries and reward actions.


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Does TikTok Still Offer Creator Accounts?

No, TikTok has phased out the separate "Creator Account" type. However, users with Personal Accounts can still access creator tools and monetization features.​


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How Do Organisation Accounts Differ From Business Accounts?

Organisation Accounts on TikTok are a new option for nonprofits and advocacy groups, while Business Accounts are designed for brands and companies focused on advertising and analytics.


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What Type Of TikTok Account Is Best For Growth?

For creators aiming to grow their audience organically, a Personal Account is ideal due to access to trending sounds and monetization tools. Businesses focused on advertising and analytics may benefit more from a Business Account


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Author

Charlotte Czarnota

Charlotte is a Content Marketer at Gleam. Share this post if you got something out of it ☺