FTC rules require clear disclosure when you earn commissions from recommendations—not buried footnotes or vague about pages. Compliance and conversion are compatible when disclosure is early, plain language, and paired with honest limitations readers can verify.
Disclosure Placement and Language
Place disclosure before the first affiliate link and repeat before major CTA blocks in long posts. Use sentences readers understand: We earn a commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you. Avoid jargon like compensated partnership without explanation.
- Top of post near intro for SEO landing traffic.
- Adjacent to buttons and comparison tables.
- Email preheader or first paragraph for promotional sends.
Truthful Claims and Substantiation
Do not promise income results, health outcomes, or performance you cannot document. Superlatives like best ever need criteria, not hype. If you received free access, say so—even when it does not change your opinion.
Visual Clarity on Buttons and Ads
CTA buttons should not mimic system warnings or hide that they leave your site. Sponsored sections need distinct styling when mixed with editorial content. Pinterest pins and social posts need disclosure in the pin description or overlay where platform rules allow.
International and Platform Overlays
GDPR, UK ASA, and platform-specific rules may add layers beyond FTC. Affiliate networks also impose wording requirements—stricter rule wins. Keep a compliance checklist per channel you publish on.
Conclusion
Reviews that pass FTC rules treat disclosure as part of user experience, not legal fine print. Honest limitations and visible partnerships convert better over time than stealth selling that triggers refunds, chargebacks, and account bans.