Effective affiliate disclosures are crucial for bloggers in 2024. Here's what you need to know:
- FTC requires clear disclosure of affiliate relationships
- Proper disclosures build trust with readers
- Placement and wording are key for compliance
Top 10 affiliate disclosure examples:
- Tech Radar
- Ken's Tech Tips
- The Wirecutter
- The Luminous
- The Shop Files
- Points of Measure
- Dan Flying Solo
- Engadget
- Smart Passive Income
- Making Sense of Cents
Quick Comparison:
| Blog | Disclosure Placement | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tech Radar | Top of page | Clear language, link for details |
| The Wirecutter | Bottom of page | Simple statement, consistent across site |
| The Shop Files | Near affiliate links | Mentions personal vetting of products |
| Engadget | Not clearly visible | Uses "Buy now" buttons with Amazon links |
| Smart Passive Income | Dedicated page + inline | Includes monthly income reports |
Tips for writing your own disclosure:
- Use simple, clear language
- Place it prominently near affiliate links
- Be specific about compensation
- Update regularly as partnerships change
Transparency builds trust with your audience and keeps you compliant with FTC guidelines.
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Why You Need Affiliate Disclosures
Affiliate disclosures are essential for bloggers in 2024. Here's why:
Legal Requirements
The FTC mandates bloggers disclose affiliate relationships. It's the law, not a suggestion. Consequences for non-compliance include:
- Fines up to $11,000 for repeat violations
- Legal action against you and promoted companies
- Reputation damage
Trust Building
Being upfront about affiliate partnerships:
- Shows transparency
- Helps readers make informed decisions
- Builds long-term trust
A study found 80% of consumers have purchased based on influencer recommendations. Honesty increases the likelihood of readers trusting and acting on your advice.
Business Protection
Proper disclosures safeguard your blogging business by:
- Avoiding potential lawsuits
- Maintaining good relationships with affiliate partners
- Preventing loss of affiliate accounts
Clear Communication
Your disclosures should be:
- Easy to spot
- Written in plain language
- Placed near relevant content
Example:
"This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you."
Staying Ahead
The FTC has increased enforcement recently. Implementing proper disclosures now:
- Keeps you ahead of potential stricter regulations
- Sets a professional standard for your blog
- Demonstrates ethical practices
What Makes a Good Affiliate Disclosure
An effective affiliate disclosure builds trust while meeting legal requirements. Key elements include:
Clarity
Use plain language. Avoid jargon. Example:
"This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you."
Visibility
Make your disclosure stand out:
- Use appropriate font size
- Use contrasting colors
- Use clear headings
Don't hide it in tiny text.
Placement
Put disclosures close to affiliate links. Good spots include:
- Top of the page
- Before affiliate links
- Within the content
Wording
Your disclosure should be:
- Short and sweet
- Personal and relatable
- Honest about brand relationships
Example from The Shop Files:
"Heads up: this page includes affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I've personally vetted."
Consistency
Use your disclosure across all relevant content:
- Blog posts
- Product reviews
- Social media posts
Even on platforms with limited space, a simple #ad can work.
1. Tech Radar
Tech Radar takes a direct approach to affiliate disclosure. Their strategy focuses on transparency and user experience.
Their disclosure, placed at the top of the page, states:
"When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works."
This disclosure is:
- Clear: Uses simple language
- Visible: Positioned above the fold
- Informative: Offers a link for more details
Tech Radar integrates affiliate links and e-commerce opportunities seamlessly. In product comparisons, they include pricing from various retailers alongside affiliate links.
Patrick Goss, TechRadar's global editor-in-chief, explains:
"Being able to tell them where they can buy that phone as well is a whole other level of user service."
This approach:
- Provides value to readers with purchase options
- Generates revenue for the site
Tech Radar's method aligns with FTC guidelines while maintaining user trust.
2. Ken's Tech Tips
Ken's Tech Tips takes a unique approach to affiliate disclosure. The site's founder, Ken Lo, implements a clear method that aligns with FTC guidelines while maintaining reader trust.
Ken's Tech Tips places its disclosure at the bottom of each article:
"We may receive a commission when you use our links to make a purchase. This helps keep our content free. For more info, please read our disclosure policy."
This disclosure is:
- Concise: Uses simple language
- Informative: Explains how the site earns money
- Accessible: Links to full disclosure policy
Ken Lo explains:
"I believe in being upfront with my readers. By placing the disclosure at the end of each article, it doesn't disrupt the reading experience but still ensures transparency."
Ken's Tech Tips uses a color-coded system for affiliate links:
| Link Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Blue | Standard link |
| Green | Affiliate link |
This visual cue helps readers identify affiliate links quickly.
Ken reports:
"Since implementing this system in 2022, we've seen a 15% increase in click-through rates on our affiliate links, while maintaining reader trust and engagement."
Ken's Tech Tips shows that a well-crafted disclosure can enhance user experience and boost affiliate performance.
3. The Wirecutter
The Wirecutter stands out for its clear affiliate disclosure approach. Their strategy focuses on maintaining reader trust while monetizing content.
At the bottom of every page, The Wirecutter includes this disclosure:
"If you click a link on our site and buy something we recommend, we may receive a commission."
This statement:
- Is transparent about how they make money
- Uses plain language
- Appears on all pages, reinforcing the message
The Wirecutter's commitment to transparency extends beyond disclosures:
- They don't accept free products for review
- All test products are purchased with their own funds
- After testing, products are returned, donated, or recycled
This approach has paid off. Between 2011 and 2016, The Wirecutter earned $150 million in affiliate revenue. In Q4 2022, they saw a 20% increase in affiliate revenue despite economic challenges.
The Wirecutter invests heavily in thorough product testing. For example, when reviewing wine glasses, they considered over 250 options and blind-tasted wine in more than 80 glasses.
David Perpich, President and General Manager of Wirecutter, explains:
"The goal is to apply the same thoroughness of New York Times investigatory journalism to product reviews."
This dedication has led to the "Wirecutter effect", where recommended products often sell out quickly after a review is published.
Key takeaways:
- Be upfront about affiliate relationships
- Prioritize editorial independence and thorough testing
- Focus on creating high-quality, trustworthy content
- Use clear, simple language in disclosures
- Maintain consistency across all pages
4. The Luminous
The Luminous takes a direct approach to affiliate disclosure, prioritizing transparency. Their technique aligns with FTC guidelines while maintaining reader trust.
The Luminous handles their affiliate disclosure by:
- Placing it prominently on pages with affiliate links, typically above the fold
- Using clear, simple wording
- Maintaining consistency across all relevant content
Their disclosure states:
"Heads up: this page includes affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I have personally vetted."
This approach:
- Clearly explains the financial relationship with affiliate partners
- Builds trust by emphasizing personal experience
- Mentions there's no additional cost to the reader
By placing the disclosure near affiliate links and using straightforward language, The Luminous ensures readers are informed before making purchasing decisions.
For bloggers looking to follow The Luminous' example:
- Use clear, everyday language in your disclosure
- Place the disclosure where it's easily noticeable
- Be upfront about earning commissions
- Emphasize that your recommendations are genuine
5. The Shop Files
The Shop Files takes a straightforward approach to affiliate disclosure. Their disclosure statement reads:
"Heads up: this page includes affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I have personally vetted."
This disclosure effectively:
- States the presence of affiliate links
- Mentions potential commission earnings
- Reassures readers there's no additional cost
- Builds trust by emphasizing product testing
By placing this disclosure prominently on pages with affiliate content, The Shop Files ensures compliance with FTC guidelines while maintaining reader trust.
To implement a similar strategy:
- Use clear, simple language
- Place the disclosure near affiliate links
- Be upfront about earning commissions
- Highlight that recommendations are based on personal experience
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6. Points of Measure
Points of Measure, a fashion education platform, takes a clear approach to affiliate disclosure. Their statement is prominently displayed on pages with affiliate links:
"This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you."
This disclosure effectively:
- States the presence of affiliate links
- Mentions potential commission earnings
- Reassures readers there's no additional cost
To enhance their disclosure strategy, Points of Measure could:
- Add a link to a full disclosure page
- Mention they only recommend trusted products
- Use a larger font size for better readability
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear, concise language | Assumes reader familiarity with affiliate links |
| Prominently displayed | Could provide more context |
| Mentions potential commission | Lacks mention of product vetting |
For bloggers looking to emulate this approach:
- Keep the disclosure short and clear
- Place it near affiliate links for visibility
- Be upfront about earning commissions
- Consider adding context for new readers
7. Dan Flying Solo
Dan Flying Solo incorporates his disclosure into his "About Me" page:
"Some links on this website are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep my site running and allows me to continue providing free travel content."
This approach has advantages:
- Clearly states use of affiliate links
- Integrates into his personal story
- Provides a centralized location for disclosure information
However, there are potential drawbacks:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Honest and upfront | Not visible on every page with affiliate links |
| Fits naturally with blog content | Readers might miss it |
| Explains benefit to readers | Could be more specific about partnerships |
To improve his disclosure strategy, Dan could:
- Add a shorter version to posts with affiliate links
- Create a separate "Affiliate Disclosure" page
- Use a small icon or label next to affiliate links
8. Engadget
Engadget uses Amazon affiliate links for "buy now" buttons on product pages. This monetizes their content while providing easy purchase options.
However, Engadget faces challenges due to changes in Amazon's affiliate pay structure. To improve transparency, Engadget could:
- Add a clear disclosure at the start of articles with affiliate links
- Use a distinctive icon next to affiliate links
- Create a dedicated "Affiliate Disclosure" page
| Current Practice | Potential Improvement |
|---|---|
| "Buy now" buttons with Amazon affiliate links | Add brief disclosure near button |
| No visible disclosure on product pages | Include icon or label next to affiliate links |
| Lack of centralized disclosure information | Create dedicated disclosure page |
An FTC official stated:
"There's 'no effective disclosure' if people don't see it."
This underscores the importance of visible, easily understood disclosures.
9. Smart Passive Income
Pat Flynn's Smart Passive Income (SPI) emphasizes transparency in affiliate disclosures. Their strategy includes:
- A dedicated disclosure page
- Inline disclosures within content
- Monthly income reports
SPI's inline disclosure example:
"Full Disclosure: I'm a compensated advisor and an affiliate for ConvertKit."
This could be improved by explaining what an affiliate is and mentioning the commission structure.
SPI's affiliate partnerships include:
| Company | Product Type |
|---|---|
| Buzzsprout | Podcast hosting |
| Teachable | Online course platform |
| ConvertKit | Email marketing |
| Leadpages | Landing page builder |
| Samcart | E-commerce platform |
Pat Flynn states:
"I've always believed in transparency on the web and so I am disclosing that I've included certain products and links to those products on this site that SPI Media LLC will earn an affiliate commission for any purchases you make."
To improve their practices, SPI could:
- Add a brief explanation of affiliate marketing
- Include a small icon next to affiliate links
- Specify commission rates when possible
10. Making Sense of Cents
Making Sense of Cents, founded by Michelle Schroeder-Gardner, offers a clear approach to affiliate disclosures. Their strategy includes:
- A dedicated disclosure page
- Inline disclosures within content
- Transparency through monthly income reports
Their inline disclosure:
"This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info."
This could be improved by explaining what an affiliate link is and mentioning potential commissions.
Making Sense of Cents' affiliate partnerships include:
| Company | Product Type |
|---|---|
| Bluehost | Web hosting |
| Teachable | Online course platform |
| Personal Capital | Financial management tools |
| Survey Junkie | Online surveys |
| Ibotta | Cash back app |
Michelle states:
"I started my blog in August of 2011, at the age of 22, without any hopes of ever earning an income from it."
To improve their practices, Making Sense of Cents could:
- Add a brief explanation of affiliate marketing
- Include specific commission rates when possible
- Use a distinct color or icon for affiliate links
Michelle's blog has grown significantly, with monthly affiliate income increasing from $0 to over $50,000. She now regularly earns over $100,000 a month from her blog.
Tips for Writing Your Own Disclosure
Creating an effective affiliate disclosure is crucial. Here are practical tips:
- Keep it simple: Use clear language. Example: "This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links."
- Place it prominently: Position it where readers will see it before affiliate links.
- Be specific about compensation: Clearly state you may receive a commission.
- Use consistent formatting: Make it stand out with bold text or color.
- Include it on all relevant pages: Add it to every page with affiliate links.
- Update regularly: Review as your affiliate relationships change.
- Consider using a plugin: Automate the process for consistency.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Use clear language | Hide the disclosure |
| Place near affiliate content | Bury it in footer |
| Be specific about compensation | Use vague statements |
| Make it visually distinct | Use tiny font |
| Include on all relevant pages | Rely on a general policy page |
As Jonathan Fields says:
"Transparency in business is a good thing. It builds trust and makes people feel comfortable interacting with your content."
Disclosures for Different Blog Types
Tailor your disclosures to fit your blog niche:
Fashion Blogs
Use a friendly tone:
"Hey style lovers! Some links here are affiliate links. If you buy something, I may earn a small commission. Thanks for supporting my blog!"
Tech Blogs
Be straightforward:
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Placement | Top of page |
| Wording | "We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more." |
| Additional Info | Link to detailed explanation |
Cooking Blogs
Integrate into content:
"Check out this amazing blender (affiliate link) for smoothies!"
Fitness Blogs
Use a dedicated page:
- Create an "Affiliate Disclosure" page
- Explain relationships in detail
- Link from main menu
DIY and Crafts Blogs
Add a personal touch:
"Hey, crafty friends! Some links are affiliate links. I might make a small commission if you buy something. Thanks for supporting my creative adventures!"
Beauty Blogs
Cover affiliate links and sponsored content:
"This post has affiliate links and products received for review. I may earn a commission on purchases. All opinions are my own."
Keeping Up with Disclosure Rules
Stay current with FTC guidelines:
FTC Guidelines: The Foundation
Affiliates must:
- Clearly disclose relationships with merchants
- Ensure disclosures are "clear and conspicuous"
- Place disclosures where consumers will see them
Recent Updates
2023 FTC updates emphasize:
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Social Media Tags | Can be endorsements |
| Brand Responsibility | Brands must ensure influencers disclose |
| Disclosure Visibility | Must be "difficult to miss" |
Practical Steps for Bloggers
- Review FTC guidelines regularly
- Implement clear disclosures
- Position disclosures strategically
- Ensure mobile compatibility
- Stay informed about industry news
Legal Implications
Non-compliance can lead to civil or criminal penalties.
Global Considerations
Be aware of similar laws in other countries.
Wrap-Up
Affiliate disclosures build trust and meet legal requirements. Key points:
| Aspect | Importance |
|---|---|
| Placement | Near links or at top of content |
| Language | Simple, clear |
| Visibility | Stands out |
| Consistency | Used across all platforms |
The FTC actively enforces these guidelines. Affiliate marketing now accounts for 15% of digital media ad revenue and up to 30% of online sales.
To stay compliant:
- Review disclosures regularly
- Keep up with FTC updates
- Be transparent about brand relationships
As Pat Flynn says:
"Honesty and transparency are the foundation of a strong, trusting relationship with your audience."