Affiliate Disclosure

1. What Is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing is a business model where we (Product Compass) earn a commission when you click our links and make a purchase from our partner merchants.

Here's how it works:

1. We publish product comparisons, reviews, and recommendations
2. We include affiliate links to merchants like Amazon, online retailers, etc.
3. When you click these links and make a purchase, we earn a small commission
4. This commission does NOT increase the price you pay

2. Our Affiliate Relationships

Product Compass participates in the following affiliate programs:

2.1 Amazon Associates Program

Program: Amazon Associates
Disclosure: "As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases."
How It Works: When you click our Amazon links and purchase products (any product, not just the one linked), we earn a small percentage commission.

2.2 Other Affiliate Networks

We also participate in affiliate programs with:

• Commission Junction (CJ): Various retailers and brands
• Impact.com: Multiple partner merchants
• ShareASale, Awin, and others: Depending on product categories

2.3 Direct Partnerships

In some cases, we may have direct affiliate relationships with brands or retailers. These will be disclosed where applicable.

3. How We Make Money

3.1 Commission Structure

We earn money through:

• Percentage Commissions: A percentage of the sale price (typically 1-10%, varies by merchant and product category)
• Flat Fees: Some programs pay a fixed amount per sale or action
• Performance Bonuses: Additional earnings based on sales volume

3.2 Cost to You

3.3 Cookies and Tracking

When you click an affiliate link, a cookie is placed on your device to track the referral. This cookie:

• Identifies that you came from Product Compass
• Has an expiration period (24 hours to 90 days, depending on the merchant)
• Credits us with the commission if you make a purchase within the tracking window

4. Our Editorial Independence

4.1 Honest Reviews and Recommendations

Our affiliate relationships do NOT influence our editorial content. We are committed to:

• Honest Opinions: Reviews and comparisons are based on objective research and analysis
• User Value First: We recommend products we believe provide genuine value
• Balanced Coverage: We include both pros and cons in our reviews
• Comparison Fairness: We compare products based on features, quality, and price—not commission rates

4.2 Commission Influence Disclaimer

While we strive for editorial independence, you should know:

• We may feature products from affiliate partners more prominently
• Some merchants offer higher commissions than others
• We may prioritize content in categories where affiliate programs are available

However, we will never recommend a product solely because it pays a higher commission.

4.3 Non-Affiliate Content

Some content on our website may NOT contain affiliate links. In these cases, we provide information purely for educational or informational purposes.

5. Product Testing and Research

5.1 Research Methods

Our product comparisons and reviews are based on:

• Manufacturer Specifications: Official product data and features
• User Reviews: Aggregated feedback from verified buyers (Amazon, retailer sites, etc.)
• Expert Analysis: Our editorial team's research and comparison
• Public Information: News, reports, and independent testing (when available)

5.2 Product Testing

Unless explicitly stated, we do NOT personally test every product we review. Our recommendations are based on research, not hands-on testing.

If we do test a product:

• We will clearly state "Tested by Product Compass"
• We will disclose if the product was provided by the manufacturer or affiliate partner

6. Sponsored Content and Paid Placements

6.1 Current Policy

As of the date of this disclosure, Product Compass does NOT publish sponsored content or accept payment from brands to feature specific products.

6.2 Future Disclosures

If we introduce sponsored content in the future:

• All sponsored content will be clearly labeled as "Sponsored," "Advertisement," or "Partner Content"
• We will disclose the sponsor's identity
• Sponsored content will comply with FTC guidelines and EU advertising standards

7. Price and Availability Accuracy

8. Your Choices and Consumer Rights

8.1 Using Affiliate Links Is Optional

You are never obligated to use our affiliate links. You can:

• Go directly to the merchant's website
• Search for products independently
• Purchase from any retailer you prefer

8.2 Supporting Our Work

If you find our content helpful and want to support Product Compass:

• Using our affiliate links helps us cover operating costs and continue providing free content
• It costs you nothing extra
• We genuinely appreciate your support!

8.3 Blocking Affiliate Links

Some browser extensions and privacy tools block affiliate links or cookies. This is your right, and we respect your privacy choices.

9. Legal Compliance

9.1 FTC Compliance (United States)

This disclosure complies with the US Federal Trade Commission's guidelines on endorsements and testimonials (16 CFR Part 255). Key requirements:

• Material connections (affiliate relationships) must be disclosed clearly and conspicuously
• Disclosures must be placed where consumers can easily see them
• Disclosures cannot be hidden or buried in fine print

9.2 GDPR Transparency (EU/EEA)

Under GDPR Article 13, we are required to inform you about affiliate tracking cookies and data processing. See our Privacy Policy for details.

9.3 Bulgarian and Romanian Regulations

Our disclosures comply with:

• Bulgaria: Law on Consumer Protection (Закон за защита на потребителите)
• Romania: Law No. 363/2007 on combating unfair practices
• EU: Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (2005/29/EC)

10. Returns, Refunds, and Customer Service

11. Amazon-Specific Disclosures

11.1 Amazon Associates Program Statement

"Product Compass is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, and other Amazon stores worldwide."

11.2 Amazon Product Advertising API

We may use Amazon's Product Advertising API to display product information, images, and prices. This data is provided by Amazon and subject to their terms.

11.3 Amazon Prime

Some products may display Amazon Prime eligibility. Prime benefits, availability, and pricing are subject to Amazon's terms and may vary by location.

12. Changes to This Disclosure

We may update this Affiliate Disclosure from time to time to reflect:

• New affiliate partnerships
• Changes in commission structures
• Legal or regulatory updates

Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. We encourage you to review this disclosure periodically.

13. Questions and Contact