Commercial disclosure
When a link earns money
You should know whether a link is simply a useful source or part of a commercial arrangement. Here is how I make that clear.
Updated
The current position
At the date shown above, no affiliate, referral or paid relationships have been recorded for the current tool listings. A tool appearing here does not, by itself, mean its maker has paid me.
That may change. If I add a commercial arrangement, I will update this information and label the relevant content and links clearly. You will not have to find this page to discover that a link is an advert.
What an affiliate link means
An affiliate arrangement can pay a commission when someone uses a particular link and takes an agreed action, such as buying a service. The arrangement determines which actions qualify.
If I use one, you will see Ad: affiliate link beside it, with a short explanation and a link to this policy. Related advertising content will also be identified before you read it.
Check the provider’s current price, terms and privacy information before deciding. I do not promise a discount, a fixed commission or particular terms unless those details have been confirmed for that specific offer.
Paid placements and other benefits
If a company pays for a link or placement, I will identify it as advertising. A sponsored link will say Ad: sponsored link beside the link. The nearby explanation will describe the actual relationship, including any relevant payment or benefit.
An interview with a maker is not automatically a sponsorship. I will describe the relationship that actually exists, rather than treating every mention of a company as a paid endorsement.
My views and ratings are mine
My opinions, recommendations and any ratings are my judgement. They are not bought. A commercial arrangement does not buy a favourable review or a higher score.
I keep a maker’s claims separate from independent research and anything I have personally tried. You can read more about how I check and explain things in the methodology.
Questions and corrections
If a label is missing or a relationship is unclear, please tell me so I can check it.
This approach follows the ASA and CAP guidance on identifying affiliate advertising (opens in a new tab) and making marketing recognisable (opens in a new tab).