Stay compliant

Disclose clearly.

Disclosure isn't red tape — it's how you keep your audience's trust and stay on the right side of the FTC. The rule is simple: if you have a material connection (a commission, a free product, a discount), say so clearly, right where you make the recommendation.

This page is educational, not legal advice. Verify current FTC requirements for your specific situation.

The core rule

"Clear and conspicuous," with the endorsement.

The FTC's revised Endorsement Guides require you to disclose any "material connection" clearly and conspicuously — placed with the recommendation, not hidden away.

Do: Use plain language like "paid link" or "I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post." Place it right next to the recommendation.
Don't: Bury it in hashtags, an "about" page, or behind a "more" link. The FTC says "affiliate link" or "commissionable link" alone may NOT be clear enough — many people don't know what those mean.
By format

Where and how to disclose.

The placement that counts as "clear and conspicuous" depends on the medium.

Posts & captions
Put "paid link" near the top, with the recommendation — not at the very end or buried in a hashtag block.
Video
Disclose in the video itself — both spoken and on-screen — not only in the description.
Live streams
Repeat the disclosure periodically, since viewers join at different times.
Platform tools
Don't rely solely on a platform's built-in "paid partnership" toggle — add your own clear disclosure too.
In person
Even a verbal recommendation with a material connection should be disclosed — "just so you know, I get a small commission."
All connections
It's not just cash — free products, gifted items, and special discounts are material connections too.
A hand holding a phone with an abstract violet and mint glow.
New in 2024

No fake reviews. No fake followers.

The FTC's Consumer Reviews and Testimonials Rule (2024) bans fake or AI-generated reviews and fake social-media indicators — like purchased followers or views — with steep civil penalties per violation.

  • Banned: fake or AI-generated reviews and testimonials.
  • Banned: fake follower and view counts to inflate influence.
  • Enforcement is real: the FTC issued its first step (warning letters to 10 companies) in December 2025.
Steal these

Disclosure lines you can use.

  • "This post contains paid links — I earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you."
  • "Paid link." (placed right with the product mention)
  • "I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post."
  • "Some of these were gifted; I only recommend things I'd buy myself."

Keep it in your own voice, but keep it unmistakable. If a reasonable person could miss it, it isn't conspicuous enough.

Compliant and trusted

Now promote with confidence.

With clear disclosure in place, focus on the formats that actually convert — honestly.

How to promote → Avoid scams