Affiliate Commission Basics: Rates, Volume, and Payouts
Affiliate earnings are usually rate × qualified sales (or a flat bounty × conversions). This guide shows the transparent arithmetic behind our affiliate worksheet and how it differs from paid-click ROI models.
Percentage vs flat commissions
Percentage deals pay a share of order value. Flat deals pay a fixed amount per approved conversion. Hybrid programs exist—enter the structure that matches your contract, not a generic industry average.
Estimate a payout
Confirm the rate type
Percent of AOV or flat per conversion.
Enter realistic volume
Use tracked referrals or a conservative forecast—not vanity traffic.
Apply the rate
Payout ≈ rate × revenue, or bounty × conversions.
Compare to acquisition cost
If you also buy ads, open the CPC ROI worksheet so commission is not confused with media spend.
Sibling tools
Use the CPM and PPC budget planners when you are buying media; reserve the affiliate calculator for partner economics after a conversion is attributed.