How to Use ShareASale: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide
Many content creators want to earn commissions through affiliate marketing but aren’t sure where to begin. ShareASale connects affiliates with merchants, making it easy to find products and services to promote.
By TechScaleMedia Editorial · Updated July 2026 · 11 min read

In this guide, you’ll learn how to use ShareASale, from setting up an account to earning commissions through affiliate links.
How Do You Use ShareASale?
Quick Answer
Using ShareASale is simple:
- Create an affiliate account.
- Join merchant programs.
- Generate affiliate links.
- Share links in your content.
- Track your earnings.
- Receive payments.
Prerequisites
Before getting started, you’ll need:
- A ShareASale affiliate account
- A website, blog, or social media platform
- An internet connection
- A payment method
Create a Workflow Manually (Recommended for Beginners)
If you’re new to affiliate marketing, joining your first program in ShareASale is the best way to understand how the platform actually works.
Step 1: Create an Account
Register as an affiliate and complete your account information. Once approved, you’ll have access to the ShareASale dashboard.
Step 2: Join Merchant Programs
Browse the merchant directory and apply to programs that match your niche. Each merchant reviews affiliate applications individually.
Step 3: Generate Affiliate Links
TAfter approval, create tracking links or banners for the products or services you want to promote.
Step 4: Share Your Links
Step 4: Share Your LinksAdd affiliate links naturally to blog posts, reviews, buying guides, or social media content where they are relevant.
Step 5: Monitor Your Results
Use the dashboard to review clicks, conversions, commissions, and payment status to measure your performance.
Step 6: Receive Payments
Once your approved earnings meet the minimum payout requirement, ShareASale sends your payment using your selected payment method.
Ready to start affiliate marketing?
Join ShareASale, promote products that fit your audience, and earn commissions from qualifying referrals.
How Can You Use ShareASale More Efficiently?
Tips
- Choose merchants that match your audience.
- Use deep links to direct visitors to relevant product pages.
- Check your performance reports regularly.
- Keep your content updated with relevant affiliate links.
How Can You Avoid Common ShareASale Errors?
Common Mistakes
- Applying to unrelated merchant programs.
- Sharing affiliate links without helpful content.
- Ignoring merchant program requirements.
- Expecting quick results without consistent effort.
How Can You Get the Most Value from ShareASale?
Best Practices
- Publish useful, trustworthy content.
- Review performance data to improve future promotions.
- Keep your account and payment details current.
- Build long-term trust with your audience.
How Can You Troubleshoot ShareASale Effectively?
Troubleshooting
Application wasn’t approved
Apply to merchants that better match your content and audience.
No commissions showing
Confirm that your affiliate links are tracking correctly and check if commissions are still pending.
Payment hasn’t arrived
Verify that you’ve met the minimum payout requirement and completed your payment information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ShareASale free to join?
Yes. Joining ShareASale as an affiliate is free.
How do affiliates earn commissions?
Affiliates earn commissions when qualifying purchases or actions are completed through their affiliate links.
Do all merchants approve every affiliate?
No. Each merchant has its own approval requirements.
Conclusion
ShareASale provides a straightforward way to monetize content through affiliate marketing. By joining relevant merchant programs, sharing affiliate links, and monitoring your results, you can grow your affiliate earnings over time.
Build a stronger foundation for affiliate marketing and online revenue growth with ShareASale.
Create your ShareASale affiliate account today and start earning commissions by promoting products that match your audience’s interests.

