If you’re running an Amazon Associates site, you need disclosure on every page that links to Amazon. Not in the footer. Not buried in a privacy policy. Actually visible. Here is the pattern I use across every affiliate site I build.
The three required elements
Per Amazon’s operating agreement and FTC endorsement guidelines, you need three things on every page that contains affiliate links:
1. A disclosure statement near the affiliate content
This is the one that matters. The FTC requires it to be “clear and conspicuous” — meaning, before the user clicks the link. Not below the fold. Not at the bottom of a 2,000-word article. Above the links, with enough visual weight that it is not mistaken for an ad.
The exact phrasing that satisfies Amazon and the FTC:
“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click an Amazon link on this page and buy something, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.”
2. The “Prices and availability” disclosure
Amazon requires this disclosure specifically: prices and product availability are accurate as of the date and time indicated, and are subject to change. This goes near the price, or in a footnote near any price listings.
3. The rel=”sponsored” attribute on every link
Per Google’s link scheme guidelines (and Amazon’s own rules since 2023), affiliate links must be tagged rel="sponsored nofollow noopener". Not nofollow alone. Not ugc. sponsored.
What I deploy by default
Every affiliate page I ship through Gorden Web Design comes with:
- A disclosure banner above the first affiliate content block
- The exact Amazon-approved phrasing on every page
- Footer disclosure in case anyone scrolls past the banner
- All outbound affiliate links templated with
rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" - A privacy policy page that names Amazon Associates specifically
Why it matters
The FTC has sent warning letters. Amazon terminates accounts for missing disclosures without warning. If your site is generating any real revenue, fixing this takes an afternoon and protects the whole business.