Affiliate Disclosure Guide for Publishers

Last updated: July 2, 2026

Why this matters: regulators like the U.S. FTC require that readers can tell when content earns you money. Getting this wrong risks penalties for you — U.S. fines can reach tens of thousands of dollars per violation. Getting it right takes two minutes, and this guide gives you the exact wording.

1. What AdNexusIO already does for you

Every AdNexusIO placement carries a visible "Sponsored" label. Never hide, restyle, or remove it — that is a condition of our Publisher Terms.
Placements are visually distinct from your editorial content, so readers can tell them apart.

2. What you must add on your site

The widget label alone is not enough under FTC guidance — regulators expect a disclosure from you, placed where readers will actually see it. Do both of the following:

a) A one-line disclosure near the content

Put a short, plain-language line at the top of pages that carry sponsored placements or affiliate links. Copy one of these:

"This page contains sponsored placements and affiliate links — if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you."
"Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase."

b) A site-wide disclosure page

Add an "Affiliate Disclosure" page linked from your site footer, explaining that your site participates in affiliate programs (including AdNexusIO) and earns commissions from qualifying purchases.

3. The rules of good disclosure

Clear and conspicuous. Readers should not have to hunt. Place disclosures before or beside the monetized content, readable on mobile without tapping "more".
Plain words. "We earn a commission" beats vague labels. The FTC has said a bare "affiliate link" label is not sufficient on its own, because many readers don't know what it means.
Every channel. If you promote pages by email or social media, disclose there too (for example, "#ad" or a plain sentence at the top).
Honest claims only. Never present sponsored placements as independent editorial endorsements, and never make product claims you can't support.

4. Quick checklist

☐ "Sponsored" label on AdNexusIO placements is visible and untouched
☐ One-line disclosure on monetized pages, above the fold
☐ "Affiliate Disclosure" page linked in your footer
☐ Privacy policy on your site is accurate and current
☐ Social/email promotion of monetized pages carries its own disclosure

5. A note on jurisdictions

This guide reflects common requirements (notably the U.S. FTC Endorsement Guides and EU transparency rules) but is general information, not legal advice. Rules vary by country — if you operate in a regulated niche (finance, health) or at significant scale, have a local professional review your setup.

Questions? support@adnexusio.com — or see the Help Center.