What Is an Affiliate Program?

An affiliate program allows website owners, publishers, or content creators to partner with third-party platforms by sharing links or references. When users choose to sign up or engage through those links, the affiliate may earn a commission based on the terms of the program. On this page, we provide informational overviews and reviews of various affiliate programs to help you understand how they work and what options are available. Each program operates independently and follows its own rules, commission structures, and tracking systems. Some affiliate providers manage a single brand, while others operate multiple platforms under one program. Programs with multiple brands may offer broader opportunities, depending on your audience and content focus. Our reviews aim to highlight key details such as commission models, reporting tools, and general terms. Exact commission rates and conditions are always confirmed directly on the affiliate provider's official website.

No Negative Carryover

When reviewing affiliate programs, one factor often considered is whether the program applies a "negative carryover" policy. A no negative carryover structure means that if earnings for a given month result in a negative balance due to user activity, that balance is reset at the start of the next period. This allows affiliates to begin each new month without a carried-over deficit. Some programs do apply negative carryover, meaning any negative balance must be offset before future commissions become payable. Our directory highlights programs that clearly state their approach to this policy so you can make an informed decision.

Affiliate Program Payment Information

Each affiliate program sets its own payment terms and schedules. In our reviews, we outline commonly available information such as:

• Payment methods offered
• Supported currencies
• Minimum payout thresholds
• Payment frequency

Before joining any affiliate program, it's important to ensure the payment options and currency align with your preferences and location.

Sub-Affiliation Options

Some affiliate programs include sub-affiliation or referral features. These allow existing affiliates to introduce new partners to the program and receive a percentage-based commission derived from the activity of those sub-affiliates, according to the program's terms. Availability and structure of sub-affiliate commissions vary and should always be reviewed directly with the affiliate provider.

Exclusive Affiliate Plans

In certain cases, affiliate programs may offer customized or exclusive commission arrangements through specific sign-up paths. These terms are subject to approval by the affiliate provider and may differ from standard plans. Details on any exclusive arrangements are clearly noted where applicable.

Affiliate Tracking and Software

Affiliate programs typically provide access to tracking software and reporting dashboards. These tools help affiliates monitor link performance, user activity, and commission data. Reporting frequency may vary between platforms, with some offering near real-time updates and others providing periodic reporting. Our reviews summarize the tracking tools used so you know what to expect before registering.

Need Help or Have a Concern?

If you encounter an issue with an affiliate program listed on our site, you may submit a report through our platform, provided the program appears in our directory. Where applicable, we act as an independent mediator to facilitate communication between parties. Updates are displayed transparently on the report page.

Choose an Affiliate Program

You can now explore the available affiliate programs in our directory and review their features, terms, and tools to determine which options best suit your content strategy and audience.