Affiliate marketing is one of the simplest ways to earn income online, but it comes with responsibility. One of the biggest mistakes new affiliates make is skipping or hiding their disclosures. That usually happens not because they want to mislead anyone, but because they are unsure of what to say or where to put it.
An affiliate disclosure is more than a legal box to tick. It is a statement of transparency that builds trust between you and your readers. People deserve to know when you might earn a commission, and when you are upfront, they are far more likely to believe in your recommendations.
This guide will show you why disclosures matter, how to write one that feels natural, and how to use simple templates that you can copy and paste into your own content today.
Why Affiliate Disclosures Matter
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States requires anyone who promotes products for compensation to disclose that relationship clearly. If you earn money when someone clicks a link or makes a purchase, you must tell them.
This rule applies even if:
- You only earn a small commission.
- You promote something you genuinely use and love.
- You assume everyone already knows it is an affiliate link.
Transparency separates professional affiliates from those who seem untrustworthy. When readers know that your advice is honest, they feel comfortable taking your recommendations.
Even if your audience is not based in the United States, it is wise to follow the same standard. Ethical marketing works everywhere, and clarity never hurts your brand.
What a Good Disclosure Looks Like
A disclosure should be easy to read, simple to understand, and visible where it matters.
- Keep it clear.
Avoid legal phrases that confuse people, such as “material connection.” Write like a human. - Make it visible.
Put it near your affiliate links or at the beginning of your post, not buried at the bottom of a long article. - Sound natural.
Let it reflect your voice and tone. You can be honest without being formal or stiff. - Stay consistent.
Use disclosures across every platform you publish on, including your blog, YouTube channel, social media, and email list.
Avoid hiding your disclosure behind hyperlinks or vague wording such as “some links may be affiliate.” Make sure it is something readers can see immediately without clicking around.
Where to Place Your Affiliate Disclosure
Think of placement as part of your reader’s experience. You want them to understand your relationship with the product before they click, not after.
For blog posts:
Add your disclosure near the top, ideally after your opening paragraph.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It costs you nothing extra and helps support this website.
For YouTube videos:
Mention your affiliate relationship within the first minute of your video. Then add a short disclosure in your video description.
Some links in this video are affiliate links. If you use them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
For social media posts:
Include a simple note or hashtag.
(affiliate link) or #ad or #affiliatepartner
A quick note alongside your link works best.
For email newsletters:
If you send affiliate links to your subscribers, include a short reminder at the bottom or near the link.
This email contains affiliate links. If you decide to buy through them, I may earn a small commission that supports this newsletter.
Affiliate Disclosure Templates You Can Copy
Here are several ready-to-use templates that you can adapt to your own style and platforms.
- Short and Simple (for blog posts)
This post includes affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
- Friendly and Conversational
Just a heads up, some of the links below are affiliate links. If you decide to buy, I might earn a small commission to keep this site running. I only recommend products I have used and genuinely believe in.
- Professional and Direct
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. I receive compensation if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own.
- YouTube or Podcast Script Example
I want to mention that this video contains affiliate links. If you use them, I may earn a small commission, which helps me continue creating content like this.
- Email or Newsletter Example
This email includes affiliate links. When you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission that supports this newsletter.
- Social Media Example
Loving this new tool I have been using! This is an affiliate link, so if you try it, I may earn a small commission. Thank you for your support.
You can adjust the tone to match your brand or voice, as long as it remains clear and honest.
Extra Tips for Staying Compliant and Authentic
Be transparent everywhere.
Even if you share affiliate links in private groups or digital courses, include a disclosure there too.
Avoid exaggeration.
Do not promise results that you cannot guarantee. Stick to what you have personally tested or verified.
Update your disclosures regularly.
Whenever you join a new affiliate program, add it to your disclosure policy.
Add a site-wide disclosure page.
Create a dedicated page called “Disclosure Policy” or “Affiliate Disclaimer” and link to it in your website footer. You can use a free generator such as Termly or write your own.
Follow each network’s rules.
Some programs have their own requirements. For example, Amazon Associates requires a specific statement on your site:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Do not skip that sentence if you promote Amazon products. It is a mandatory rule of their program.
Why Readers Appreciate Transparency
Many new affiliates worry that disclosures will make them sound too commercial, but readers actually prefer honesty. People already understand that affiliate marketing exists. When you are open about it, you show integrity.
Transparency says, “I believe in what I recommend, and if you choose to support me, thank you.” That message feels authentic. It also builds long-term loyalty.
Audiences remember creators who are straightforward. It shows maturity, confidence, and respect for the people who trust your content.
What it all adds up to
Affiliate marketing works best when trust comes first. Disclosures are not a barrier to conversion; they are part of building a real relationship with your readers.
Be honest, stay consistent, and treat your audience as partners rather than targets. Use the templates above to update your blog, emails, and social posts today.
A transparent business is a sustainable one, and a clear disclosure is one of the simplest ways to prove that you run your affiliate marketing like a professional.
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