If your affiliate dashboard says one number and your bank says another, nothing's wrong. Most programmes pay weeks or months after the sale, hold small balances until they reach a minimum, and take back commission on returns.
When the main programmes pay
| Programme | When you're paid | Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Associates | About 60 days after the end of the month (January's commission arrives in late March) | US $10 by direct deposit or gift card ($100 by check); UK £25 by bank transfer |
| LTK | After the retailer's return window closes: up to about 90 days after the sale | Check your account |
| ShopMy | Pending for 30–120 days until the retailer pays, then paid out weekly on Fridays | Check your account |
| Awin | Twice a month, once brands confirm the commission | £20 / $20 / €20 |
| TikTok Shop | Held 15–31 days for returns, then about every two weeks | Check your account |
| YouTube Shopping | Through AdSense, 60–120 days after the purchase | Your AdSense threshold |
Programme terms change, so check your own account. Below the minimum, most programmes roll your balance into the next payout instead of paying it.
Why Q4 looks strange
Black Friday and Christmas sales are earned in November and December but paid in January to March. Your best earning months can be your worst payout months, which matters for budgeting and, depending on how you count income, for tax.
Returns take commission back
A return or cancellation usually reverses the commission, sometimes after it showed as earned. Track your return rate so you don't spend money that might disappear.
FAQs
When does Amazon Associates pay?
About 60 days after the end of the month in which you earned it, once your balance reaches the minimum (in the US, $10 by direct deposit or gift card).
Why haven't I been paid my affiliate earnings?
Usually because of the payout delay, a balance below the programme's minimum, or a retailer's return window that hasn't closed yet.
Plan it in minutes
Every programme's payout rules pre-filled, expected payout dates, below-minimum balances and earned vs received. UK, US, Canada and Australia.
See the Affiliate Income Tracker →
