AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
Affiliate Archives
Last Updated: December 21, 2024
OVERVIEW
Affiliate Archives operates with complete transparency regarding our business model and relationships with the companies, products, and services we feature on our websites.
This disclosure is provided in compliance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
1. WHAT IS AFFILIATE MARKETING?
1.1 Simple Explanation
Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing arrangement where we earn commissions by promoting products or services offered by other companies. When you click on certain links on our websites and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you.
1.2 How It Works
Here’s the process:
- You click on a product link or recommendation on our website
- You are redirected to the merchant’s website
- If you make a purchase, the merchant pays us a commission
- You pay the same price – the commission comes from the merchant’s budget, not from your pocket
1.3 Our Commitment
We only recommend products and services that we believe will provide value to our readers. Our affiliate relationships do not influence the price you pay, and we strive to provide honest, unbiased information.
2. MATERIAL CONNECTION DISCLOSURE
2.1 FTC Compliance
In accordance with FTC guidelines, we disclose that Affiliate Archives has financial relationships with various companies whose products and services we feature on our websites.
2.2 Material Connections Include
We may receive compensation through:
- Commission on sales generated through affiliate links
- Payment for advertising space on our websites
- Free products or services provided for review purposes
- Sponsored content or paid partnerships
- Referral fees from service providers
- Revenue sharing arrangements with affiliate networks
2.3 Your Cost
Important: When you purchase through our affiliate links, you pay the same price as you would if you went directly to the merchant’s website. The commission we earn comes from the merchant’s advertising budget and does not increase your cost.
3. AFFILIATE PROGRAMS WE PARTICIPATE IN
Affiliate Archives participates in various affiliate marketing programs, including but not limited to:
3.1 Major Affiliate Networks
Amazon Associates Program:
- We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites
- When you click on Amazon product links and make purchases, we may earn commissions
Other Affiliate Networks:
- ShareASale
- CJ Affiliate (Commission Junction)
- Rakuten Advertising
- Impact
- Awin
- PartnerStack
- ClickBank
- And other reputable affiliate networks
3.2 Direct Affiliate Partnerships
We maintain direct affiliate relationships with numerous companies across various industries including:
- Health & Lifestyle brands
- Technology & Software companies
- Fashion & Travel services
- Home & Food retailers
- Entertainment & Sports platforms
- Pet product manufacturers
- Automotive service providers
3.3 Industry Coverage
Our affiliate partnerships span multiple categories:
- Consumer products and retail
- Digital products and software
- Subscription services
- Online courses and education
- Financial services and tools
- Health and wellness products
- Technology and gadgets
- And many other legitimate business categories
4. HOW WE USE AFFILIATE LINKS
4.1 Link Identification
Affiliate links on our websites may include:
- Text links within articles and content
- Product images that link to merchant websites
- Buttons or call-to-action elements
- Product comparison tables
- Review summaries and recommendations
- Resource lists and buying guides
- Banner advertisements (some)
4.2 Link Disclosure
We strive to make affiliate relationships clear through:
- This comprehensive disclosure page
- In-content disclosures near affiliate links
- Visual indicators (when appropriate)
- Clear language about our recommendations
4.3 Tracking Technology
Affiliate links contain tracking codes that:
- Identify us as the referral source
- Track clicks and purchases for commission purposes
- Use cookies to attribute sales within a specific timeframe
- Help us understand which content is most valuable to readers
5. OUR EDITORIAL STANDARDS
5.1 Honest Recommendations
Our Commitment to You:
- We only recommend products and services we genuinely believe in
- Our reviews are based on research, testing, and analysis
- We present both advantages and disadvantages
- We prioritize reader value over commission potential
- We update content when products or circumstances change
5.2 Testing and Research
Our recommendations are based on:
- Personal testing and hands-on experience (when possible)
- Extensive research and competitive analysis
- Customer reviews and feedback from actual users
- Expert opinions and industry research
- Product specifications and feature comparisons
- Price analysis and value assessment
5.3 Balanced Perspective
We strive to provide:
- Honest assessments of product strengths and weaknesses
- Comparison with alternative options
- Consideration of different user needs and budgets
- Transparent discussion of limitations
- Clear differentiation between opinion and fact
5.4 No Guaranteed Results
Important Disclaimer:
- Product performance may vary by individual
- Our experience may differ from yours
- We cannot guarantee specific results
- Your satisfaction depends on your unique circumstances
- We encourage you to conduct your own research
6. TYPES OF COMPENSATION
6.1 Commission-Based Compensation
We may earn commissions when:
- You click an affiliate link and make a purchase
- You sign up for a service or subscription
- You submit a lead or application
- You complete a qualifying action on a merchant’s site
Commission structures vary:
- Percentage of sale (e.g., 5-20% of purchase price)
- Flat fee per sale (e.g., $10-$100 per transaction)
- Pay-per-lead (compensation for qualified leads)
- Recurring commissions (for subscription services)
- Tiered rates based on performance volume
6.2 Free Products and Services
We may receive:
- Products sent for review purposes
- Free access to software or services
- Complimentary subscriptions for evaluation
- Sample products for testing
Our Policy:
- Receiving free products does not guarantee positive reviews
- We maintain editorial independence regardless of compensation
- We disclose when products are received for free
- We return or donate products after review (when appropriate)
6.3 Sponsored Content
Occasionally, we may publish sponsored content:
- Clearly labeled as “Sponsored,” “Paid Partnership,” or similar
- Distinguishable from regular editorial content
- Subject to our editorial standards and disclosure requirements
- Does not represent our independent editorial opinion unless stated
6.4 Advertising Revenue
We may display advertisements:
- Banner ads from advertising networks
- Contextual advertising (Google AdSense, etc.)
- Native advertising that matches content style
- All advertising clearly distinguishable from editorial content
7. THIRD-PARTY MERCHANT RESPONSIBILITY
7.1 Purchases and Transactions
Important Information:
- All purchases are made directly with merchants, not with Affiliate Archives
- We do not process payments or handle transactions
- We do not have access to your payment information
- Merchants are solely responsible for order fulfillment
7.2 Merchant Policies
Subject to merchant’s terms:
- Product quality and warranties
- Shipping and delivery
- Returns and refunds
- Customer service
- Privacy and data handling
- Pricing and availability
7.3 Product Changes
Please Note:
- Products, prices, and availability are subject to change
- Information may become outdated
- We strive to update content regularly but cannot guarantee real-time accuracy
- Always verify current details on merchant websites
7.4 Our Limitation of Liability
We are not responsible for:
- Product defects or quality issues
- Merchant fulfillment or customer service
- Shipping delays or damages
- Pricing errors or changes
- Merchant policy changes
- Disputes between you and merchants
8. PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
8.1 Pricing Accuracy
Regarding prices displayed on our websites:
- Prices shown may not reflect current merchant pricing
- Pricing information is provided for reference only
- Dynamic pricing may cause variations
- Sales, promotions, and discounts change frequently
- We are not responsible for pricing errors
8.2 Product Availability
Product availability:
- Subject to merchant inventory
- May vary by location or region
- Can change without notice
- Not guaranteed at time of viewing
8.3 Commission Impact on Price
Your Price:
- Our commission does NOT increase the price you pay
- Prices are set by merchants, not by us
- You pay the same price with or without our affiliate link
- Sometimes our links may provide access to exclusive discounts
9. NO PROFESSIONAL ADVICE
9.1 Information Only
Our content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute:
- Medical or health advice
- Financial or investment advice
- Legal advice
- Professional consulting
- Personalized recommendations for your specific situation
9.2 Specific Disclaimers
Health and Medical:
- Not a substitute for professional medical advice
- Consult healthcare providers before making health decisions
- Individual results may vary
- Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
Financial:
- Not financial, investment, or tax advice
- Consult qualified financial professionals
- Past performance doesn’t guarantee future results
- Investment decisions carry risk
Legal:
- Not legal advice
- Consult attorneys for legal matters
- Laws vary by jurisdiction
Technical:
- Technical information provided as-is
- We are not responsible for implementation issues
- Seek professional assistance for critical systems
10. YOUR TRUST MATTERS
10.1 Our Values
We are committed to:
- Transparency in all business relationships
- Honest, accurate content and recommendations
- Putting reader interests first
- Maintaining editorial independence
- Continuous improvement of our content
- Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
10.2 Editorial Independence
Our Editorial Policy:
- Affiliate relationships do not dictate our content
- We maintain the right to publish negative reviews
- Commercial considerations do not override editorial judgment
- We feature both affiliate and non-affiliate products
- Quality and value are our primary selection criteria
10.3 Reader Feedback
We Value Your Input:
- Questions about our affiliate relationships are welcome
- Feedback helps us improve our content
- Concerns are addressed promptly and seriously
- You can contact us anytime about our recommendations
11. REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
11.1 FTC Guidelines
We comply with Federal Trade Commission guidelines regarding:
- Endorsements and testimonials
- Truth in advertising
- Clear and conspicuous disclosures
- Material connection disclosures
- Consumer protection standards
11.2 International Compliance
We also comply with applicable international regulations:
- UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA)
- European Union consumer protection directives
- Canadian Competition Bureau guidelines
- Australian Consumer Law
- Other applicable regional regulations
11.3 European Union & UK Specific Compliance
For visitors from the European Union and United Kingdom:
Consumer Rights Directive Compliance:
- Right to clear and transparent information about commercial relationships
- Right to know the commercial nature of content before engagement
- Protection against misleading or aggressive commercial practices
- Clear identification of advertising and sponsored content
GDPR Data Processing:
- Affiliate links use cookies and tracking technologies
- See our Cookie Policy for detailed information about data processing
- You can manage cookie preferences at any time
- Affiliate tracking involves processing of personal data (IP address, browsing behavior)
- Legal basis for processing: Legitimate interests (Article 6(1)(f) GDPR)
- You have rights regarding your personal data (see Privacy Policy)
UK Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008:
- We comply with requirements for transparent commercial communications
- Material information about affiliate relationships is clearly disclosed
- We do not engage in misleading actions or omissions
Distance Selling & E-Commerce Regulations:
- When you purchase through our links, EU/UK distance selling rules apply
- You have statutory cooling-off/cancellation rights with merchants
- Your consumer rights are provided by the merchant, not by us
- Consumer protection laws of your country apply to merchant transactions
11.3 Industry Standards
We adhere to industry best practices:
- Ethical affiliate marketing standards
- Content quality guidelines
- Transparency requirements
- Consumer protection principles
12. EUROPEAN UNION SPECIFIC DISCLOSURES
12.1 Right to Information (GDPR Articles 13-14)
For EU/EEA visitors, we inform you that:
Data Controller:
- Affiliate Archives is the data controller for affiliate marketing activities
- Contact: privacy@affiliatearchives.com
- Address: [Your Business Address]
Data Processing for Affiliate Marketing:
- Purpose: Track referrals and attribute commissions
- Legal Basis: Legitimate interests (Article 6(1)(f) GDPR)
- Data Collected: IP address, cookie identifiers, click data, browsing behavior
- Recipients: Affiliate networks, merchant partners (see Privacy Policy)
- Retention: Typically 30-90 days (varies by affiliate program)
- Your Rights: Access, rectification, erasure, restriction, objection, portability
12.2 Cookie Consent Requirements
EU Cookie Law (ePrivacy Directive) Compliance:
- Affiliate tracking cookies require your consent
- You can manage preferences through our Cookie Consent banner
- Essential cookies for basic functionality do not require consent
- Marketing and tracking cookies require opt-in consent
- You can withdraw consent at any time
- See our Cookie Policy for complete information
12.3 Transparency of Commercial Intent
Per EU Consumer Rights Directive:
- All affiliate links represent commercial relationships
- We receive financial benefit when you purchase through our links
- This disclosure satisfies Article 6 (information requirements for distance contracts)
- Commercial nature of content is clearly identified
- You receive this information before being bound by any contract
12.4 Consumer Rights Protection
EU Consumer Rights Directive (2011/83/EU):
- 14-day cooling-off period applies to most distance sales
- Right to cancel purchase without giving reason
- Right to return goods (subject to exceptions)
- These rights are provided by the merchant, not by Affiliate Archives
- Merchant must comply with EU consumer protection regulations
- Your statutory rights cannot be waived
Exceptions to Cancellation Rights:
- Digital content if delivery has begun with your consent
- Sealed goods opened after delivery (hygiene, health reasons)
- Custom or personalized products
- Perishable goods
- Other exceptions under EU law
12.5 Unfair Commercial Practices Directive
We comply with Directive 2005/29/EC:
- No misleading actions or omissions
- No aggressive commercial practices
- Material information provided before transaction
- Clear identification of advertising content
- Honest presentation of products and services
12.6 Cross-Border Purchases
For EU consumers purchasing from non-EU merchants:
- Different consumer protection rules may apply
- Import duties, taxes, and customs fees may apply
- Return shipping to non-EU merchants may be costly
- Currency conversion fees may apply
- Dispute resolution may be more complex
- Check merchant’s shipping and return policies carefully
12.7 EU Representative (If Applicable)
[If you have significant EU operations, include EU representative information here per GDPR Article 27]
12.8 Language Requirements
Where required by EU member state law, key disclosures are available in local languages. Contact us for translated versions.
13. CHANGES TO AFFILIATE RELATIONSHIPS
12.1 Dynamic Partnerships
Please be aware:
- Affiliate relationships may change over time
- We may add or remove affiliate partnerships
- Commission structures may be modified
- Program terms may change
12.2 Updated Disclosure
We commit to:
- Keeping this disclosure current
- Updating when material changes occur
- Providing notice of significant modifications
- Maintaining accurate representation of our relationships
13. YOUR CHOICES
13.1 You Are Not Obligated
Important Reminders:
- You are never obligated to use our affiliate links
- You can go directly to merchant websites
- You can search for better prices or alternatives
- Your purchasing decisions are entirely your own
13.2 How to Avoid Affiliate Links
If you prefer not to use affiliate links:
- Navigate directly to merchant websites
- Search for products using search engines
- Type URLs directly into your browser
- Clear cookies before visiting merchant sites
13.3 Cookie Management
You can control affiliate tracking by:
- Adjusting browser cookie settings
- Using private/incognito browsing mode
- Installing cookie management extensions
- Clearing cookies regularly
14. SPECIFIC PROGRAM DISCLOSURES
14.1 Amazon Associates
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Additional disclosures specific to Amazon:
- We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program
- Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change
- Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of products
- Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates
- We may display certain content from Amazon including but not limited to product images, descriptions, and customer reviews
14.2 Other Specific Programs
[Add specific disclosures required by particular affiliate programs you participate in]
15. TESTIMONIALS AND REVIEWS
15.1 User Testimonials
If we publish user testimonials:
- They reflect individual experiences
- Results may not be typical
- We do not compensate users for testimonials (unless disclosed)
- Testimonials are verified to the best of our ability
15.2 Expert Reviews
Our expert reviews:
- Are based on our honest assessment
- May include products we received for free
- Reflect our genuine opinions
- Are not guaranteed to match your experience
16. CONTACT INFORMATION
16.1 Questions About This Disclosure
If you have questions about our affiliate relationships or this disclosure:
Affiliate Archives
Email: disclosure@affiliatearchives.com
General Contact: contact@affiliatearchives.com
Website: https://affiliatearchives.com/contact
Mailing Address: [Your Business Address]
16.2 Report Concerns
If you believe we have not properly disclosed an affiliate relationship or have concerns about our recommendations:
- Contact us using the information above
- We will investigate and respond promptly
- We take disclosure violations seriously
- Your feedback helps us maintain compliance
17. ACKNOWLEDGMENT
By using Affiliate Archives websites, you acknowledge that:
- You have read and understood this Affiliate Disclosure
- You understand we earn commissions from affiliate links
- You understand the nature of affiliate marketing
- You know that affiliate relationships exist throughout our content
- You understand your purchases support our free content
- You can choose whether or not to use our affiliate links
- You understand we maintain editorial independence
- You know to verify information with merchants before purchasing
SUMMARY
In Plain English:
We make money when you buy products through our links. This doesn’t cost you anything extra – we earn a commission from the company that sells the product. We only recommend things we truly believe will help you, and we’re always honest about products, even if they have affiliate links. You’re free to buy directly from companies if you prefer, but using our links helps support the free content we create.
Thank you for your trust and support!
LEGAL NOTICE
This disclosure is part of our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. By using our websites, you agree to all terms and conditions outlined in these documents.
This Affiliate Disclosure is effective as of the date stated above and applies to all content published on Affiliate Archives websites and associated platforms.
IMPORTANT REMINDER
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO:
- Do your own research before making purchases
- Read product reviews from multiple sources
- Compare prices across different sellers
- Verify product specifications and details
- Understand return and refund policies
- Make informed decisions based on your needs and budget
Your satisfaction and trust are our top priorities.
