Affiliate Disclosure Checklist for Bloggers and Creators
Readers and regulators expect you to be clear when you earn a commission. This checklist covers good practice. It is general information, not legal advice.
The principle
In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission expects endorsements to be honest, and expects you to disclose a material connection, such as earning a commission, clearly and conspicuously. Check the FTC's current Endorsement Guides and your local rules for the details that apply to you.
Checklist
- Put the disclosure near the top. Before the first affiliate link, not buried in the footer.
- Use plain words. "This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you."
- Make it visible. Not tiny, low-contrast or hidden behind a click.
- Disclose in every format. In videos, say it aloud and add it to the description. On social posts, put it in the post itself.
- Repeat where needed. Long posts and email newsletters should disclose again if links appear far from the first notice.
- Be honest about the product. Do not claim experience you do not have, and do not overstate benefits.
- Have a disclosure page. Link to it from your menu or footer for readers who want the full policy.
Why it helps you
Clear disclosure protects you and builds trust. Readers who feel respected keep coming back.
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