How do I get approved for affiliate programs?
Build a site that looks legit
Most affiliate managers check for a live site with original content, a contact page, a privacy policy, and an affiliate disclosure. A simple blog with 10–20 helpful posts in one niche often beats a thin site with hundreds of auto-generated pages.
Use a custom domain rather than a free subdomain, and make sure the site loads on mobile. If you have no traffic yet, say so honestly in the application and explain your plan to create content and drive search traffic.
Some programs also ask about your audience, promotion methods, and expected monthly visitors. Typical ranges: new sites might get 100–1,000 visitors per month; programs with strict standards may want 10,000+.
- Live site with original, niche content
- Contact page, privacy policy, affiliate disclosure
- Custom domain and mobile-friendly design
- Clear description of your audience and traffic plan
Where to apply first
Beginner-friendly options include large networks like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, CJ Affiliate, Rakuten Advertising, and Impact. Many merchants on these networks approve new publishers, though some have minimum traffic or sales requirements.
You can also apply directly to smaller merchants in your niche; they often have less competition and more flexible approval. Once you have a few sales or a growing email list, you can reapply to premium programs.
If you get rejected, ask why and fix the issue. Common reasons: incomplete site, no disclosure, or content that doesn't match the merchant's audience.
- Amazon Associates (low barrier, low commissions)
- ShareASale, CJ, Rakuten, Impact (networks)
- Direct applications to niche merchants
- Reapply after improving site and traffic
Common mistakes
- Applying to dozens of programs with an empty or unfinished site, which leads to instant rejections.
- Not including an affiliate disclosure or privacy policy, which many programs require.
- Giving up after one rejection instead of asking for feedback and reapplying later.
