ShareASale Review: Tools, Categories, and Tips to Succeed

Tired of promoting random products and barely making commissions? Or maybe you’re just getting started and wondering which affiliate platform actually delivers results?
If what you really want is access to trusted brands, high-converting tools, and consistent payouts, then ShareASale might be exactly what you need.

This powerful affiliate network has helped thousands of creators, bloggers, and entrepreneurs turn their platforms into revenue machines for over two decades. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore how ShareASale works, what makes it different, and most importantly, how you can use it to earn smarter in 2025 and beyond.

What Is ShareASale?

ShareASale is one of the longest-standing affiliate marketing networks, launched in 2000 and acquired by Awin in 2017. It serves as a middleman that connects merchants with affiliates who promote their products in exchange for commission-based payouts.

The platform gives access to more than 30,000 merchants, including major names like Etsy, BuzzFeed, and Reebok. Whether you’re in fashion, tech, lifestyle, or finance ShareASale likely has a program for your niche. Its flexibility makes it ideal for small content creators just starting out, as well as professional marketers looking to scale.

Affiliate marketers earn by joining merchant programs inside ShareASale and sharing trackable product links via their blogs, websites, email newsletters, or social media platforms. Whenever someone clicks the link and makes a purchase or completes a lead action, the affiliate earns a commission paid reliably via direct deposit, Payoneer, or checks.

Tools & Features of ShareASale

ShareASale provides a set of essential tools that streamline affiliate marketing, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. These tools help you find merchants, track performance, and optimize your promotions in real time.

Key tools include:

• Real-Time Reporting Dashboard: Offers detailed reports on clicks, sales, commissions, and EPC (earnings per click).
• Affiliate Lookup Tool: Helps identify top-performing merchants by niche or category.
• Custom Deep Linking: Lets affiliates create product-specific links to increase conversion rates.
• Affiliate API: Enables advanced users to pull real-time data and automate workflows.
• Product Discovery Engine: Helps affiliates find relevant, high-converting products.
• Creative Assets Library: Includes banners, pre-written text links, and other promotional materials provided by merchants.

Additionally, ShareASale offers a two-tier commission structure in some programs, meaning affiliates can also earn by referring other affiliates.

Despite its robust toolkit, some users report that the platform interface feels outdated and navigation may be tricky at first. However, once familiar, it becomes an efficient dashboard to manage multiple affiliate programs with ease.

How Does ShareASale Work?

ShareASale works as a connector between two groups: merchants who want to promote their products and affiliates who are willing to promote them in exchange for commissions.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Sign Up as an affiliate (approval usually takes 1–3 days).
2. Browse the Marketplace to find merchants in your niche.
3. Apply to Join specific merchant programs (some approve instantly; others manually review).
4. Generate Custom Links for the products you want to promote.
5. Share Your Links across your website, YouTube channel, or social media.
6. Earn Commissions whenever someone makes a purchase or completes a lead through your link.

The platform supports both CPA (cost-per-action) and CPL (cost-per-lead) models, depending on the merchant. Whether you’re promoting fashion, software, online services, or home goods, there’s likely a brand match available.

Who Should Use ShareASale?

ShareASale is suited for a wide range of content creators and online entrepreneurs. Its simplicity, diversity of merchants, and flexible commission structures make it a strong choice for various affiliate types.

Best-suited users include:

• Bloggers and Website Owners: Especially those in lifestyle, home decor, tech, beauty, and health niches.
• YouTubers and Social Media Influencers: Who can drive affiliate traffic via video content or product shoutouts.
• Email Marketers: Looking to monetize newsletters through curated product recommendations.
• New Affiliates: With no need for prior experience or an established audience to get started.
• Niche Site Owners: Who want to scale by promoting products with high conversion rates.

Thanks to its user-friendly onboarding and global brand access, ShareASale appeals to both solo creators and affiliate agencies managing multiple clients.

ShareASale Categories Overview

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular merchant categories available on ShareASale in 2025:

You can filter programs by EPC, average commission, category, or approval speed making it easier to find what aligns with your audience.

Pros and Cons of ShareASale

Every platform comes with its strengths and challenges. ShareASale is no different. Here’s an honest breakdown:

Pros

• Trusted Reputation: Operating since 2000 and backed by Awin, it’s one of the most reliable affiliate platforms.
• Diverse Categories: With 30,000+ merchants, affiliates from nearly every niche can find relevant products.
• Flexible Payment Options: Receive commissions via Payoneer, direct deposit, or wire transfer.
• Robust Reporting Tools: Real-time data helps track clicks, conversions, and commissions.
• Beginner-Friendly: Easy to join with no strict requirements or prior experience needed.
• Affiliate Discovery Tools: Simplifies finding high-converting offers that match your content.
• Global Reach: Many merchants accept international traffic and affiliates.

Cons

• Outdated Interface: The dashboard may feel clunky or overwhelming for new users.
• Payment Delays: Some users report late payments or difficulty verifying payment status.
• Manual Approvals: Not all programs auto-approve affiliates, which can delay your campaign.
• Support Response Times: While support exists, it can be slow to respond to technical or payment-related issues.

Despite a few downsides, ShareASale remains a favorite for affiliates who want variety, trust, and control.

Tips to Succeed as a ShareASale Affiliate

Getting approved is just the beginning. To truly benefit from ShareASale, affiliates should focus on the following strategies:

• Choose High-EPC Merchants: Prioritize brands with high earnings per click and strong conversion data.
• Stay in a Relevant Niche: Promote products that resonate with your content theme for higher engagement.
• Use Deep Linking: Direct your audience to specific products or landing pages to reduce bounce rates.
• Leverage SEO and Email Lists: Drive organic traffic and create evergreen affiliate funnels through blog posts and newsletters.
• Test and Optimize Creatives: Use different banners or links to discover what performs best.
• Stay Active: Dormant accounts or low activity can reduce payouts or even result in account suspension.
• Follow FTC Guidelines: Always disclose affiliate links and stay compliant with legal regulations.

Treat ShareASale like a business, and its potential to generate consistent affiliate income multiplies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on ShareASale

While ShareASale is beginner-friendly, new affiliates often make costly mistakes that limit their earnings. Avoiding these pitfalls can set you up for long-term success and help you scale faster.

Promoting Too Many Programs at Once

It’s tempting to join multiple merchants right away, but promoting too many products can dilute your message and confuse your audience. Focus on a few high-quality merchants that align with your niche and build trust first.

Ignoring Program Rules and Guidelines

Each merchant on ShareASale sets its own rules regarding how their products can be promoted. Violating these can lead to removal from the program or even account termination. Always read the terms before linking or running campaigns.

Not Disclosing Affiliate Links

Affiliate disclosures are required by law in many regions, including under FTC guidelines. Failing to disclose your links can lead to account penalties, loss of trust, or legal issues. Use clear language such as “This post contains affiliate links” in your content.

Neglecting Analytics

New affiliates often overlook the importance of data. Use ShareASale’s reporting tools to track which links convert best, what time your traffic peaks, and which merchants perform poorly. Optimizing based on real numbers can significantly improve your ROI.

Forgetting to Reapply After Rejection

If a merchant rejects your application, don’t give up. Many merchants reconsider if your content grows or improves. Update your site or profile and reapply with a short message explaining the value you bring as a promoter.

Final Thoughts

ShareASale stands out as a top choice for both new and seasoned affiliate marketers. With thousands of companies to partner with, it makes finding products to share easy. The sign-up process is smooth, and getting paid on time is a big plus.

While its interface may feel a bit dated and support response times slow, the platform’s tools and merchant variety outweigh the drawbacks. If you’re serious about affiliate marketing, ShareASale is a network you shouldn’t overlook.

Whether you’re a blogger, influencer, or niche site owner, ShareASale provides the infrastructure to scale your affiliate revenue all under one roof.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is ShareASale?

ShareASale is an affiliate marketing network that connects merchants with affiliates who promote their products online in exchange for commissions.

How do I get paid on ShareASale?

Payments are made monthly through Payoneer, direct deposit, or wire transfer once you meet the minimum payout threshold of $50.

Is ShareASale free to join?

Yes, signing up for ShareASale as an affiliate is completely free. There are no monthly or hidden fees.

How long does it take to get approved?

Approval usually takes 1 to 3 business days. Some merchants auto-approve, while others manually review your application.

Can I work with international merchants?

Absolutely. Many ShareASale merchants support international traffic and pay commissions regardless of where your audience is located.