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While I share money-making strategies, nothing is “typical”, and outcomes are based on each individual. There are no guarantees.
Making money on Instagram isn’t just about brand deals or going viral with reels. The real money for creators comes from affiliate programs—getting paid every time your audience buys something you recommend. I’ve tested a lot of affiliate programs on many platforms over the years, and not all are worth your time. Here’s the breakdown of the best affiliate programs for Instagram, plus how to actually use them in your posts, stories, and bio so you can start seeing commissions hit your account.
Using affiliate links on Instagram today looks very different than it did a few years ago. Instagram has leaned heavily into native shopping features and direct-to-DM automation, which means you’re no longer limited to just dropping a “link in bio.”
Creators now place affiliate links in multiple touchpoints across the platform:
Stories: With link stickers, you can drive traffic to affiliate products with a single tap. Many influencers layer these stickers over lifestyle content, making them feel seamless instead of salesy.
Reels and Posts: Affiliate links can be shared in captions or pinned comments, but the real power comes from pairing them with a “comment trigger.” Using tools like ManyChat or Stan Store DM automation, creators tell followers: “Comment ‘LINK’ and I’ll send it to you.” The system automatically delivers the affiliate link in DMs, which massively increases conversion because users don’t leave the app.
Bio: The bio is still prime real estate, but instead of messy link trees, creators use curated affiliate hubs through platforms like Stan Store or LTK. These hubs showcase products, digital downloads, or collections in a way that feels like an Instagram-native storefront.
Pinned Content: Many creators now pin a Reel or carousel with their most profitable affiliate products, then direct all new followers to it. This keeps affiliate links working for them long-term.
Algorithm-friendly strategy: Instagram favors engagement, so creators weave affiliate links into educational, entertaining, or aspirational content instead of just product plugs. Tutorials, “Amazon haul” reels, “3 things I use every morning,” or “budget vs. splurge” posts all naturally integrate affiliate links.
1. Amazon Associates
Instagram influencers are using the Amazon Influencer Program to turn everyday content into commissions by driving sales through affiliate links and personalized storefronts. Unlike Amazon Associates, which focuses on individual product links, the Influencer Program gives creators a branded shop page where they can showcase curated product collections, making it easier for followers to browse and buy.
Key strategies Instagram creators use with Amazon:
Creating a dedicated Amazon storefront: Influencers set up a custom shop page (e.g., amazon.com/shop/yourhandle) where they organize their favorite items into themed lists like “Amazon Kitchen Must-Haves,” “Budget Fashion Finds,” or “Tech I Actually Use.”
Using affiliate links: Direct product links are placed in Stories, Reels, captions, and bios. Every purchase made through those links earns a commission.
Producing shoppable content: Creators film tutorials, reviews, and lifestyle posts featuring products from their storefront. Many repurpose this same content directly to Amazon’s shoppable feed, doubling exposure.
Curating product lists: Instead of overwhelming followers with random links, influencers categorize products into easy-to-shop collections that align with their niche.
Promoting the storefront: They drive traffic by mentioning their Amazon shop verbally in videos, including it in captions, or linking it through Story stickers and pinned posts.
Participating in promotions: Some influencers also earn flat-rate “bounties” for actions like signing up for a Baby Registry, Amazon Prime, or Audible.
Amazon Creator Ads: Eligible influencers can promote their Amazon content across social media, reaching new audiences while boosting sales from shoppable posts.
2. LTK (LikeToKnowIt)
LTK is one of the most powerful affiliate platforms for Instagram in 2025 because it’s built specifically for creators in lifestyle, fashion, beauty, fitness, and home. Instead of applying to individual brand programs, creators get access to thousands of retailers through one hub—and every product link can be turned into a shoppable Instagram moment.
How creators use LTK on Instagram in 2025:
Shoppable collections: Creators build curated collections inside LTK—like “Fall Capsule Wardrobe,” “Everyday Makeup Routine,” or “Budget Home Finds.” These act as mini storefronts that can be linked directly from Instagram Stories, Reels, and captions.
DM automation with keywords: The biggest shift is pairing LTK with Instagram’s comment automation. Instead of sending followers to a bio link, creators tell them: “Comment OUTFIT and I’ll DM you the links.” The system automatically delivers the LTK product roundup in DMs, boosting conversions because followers never leave the app.
Shoppable Reels and carousels: Creators tag LTK affiliate products in outfit-of-the-day videos, tutorials, and lifestyle reels. This drives sales while keeping the content natural and engaging.
Analytics that matter: LTK’s backend shows exactly which links and products are converting so influencers know what content to double down on.
Cross-platform advantage: The same LTK links used on Instagram can be repurposed on Pinterest, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and even email—making it a scalable affiliate system.
3. Levanta
Levanta is what I call Amazon Associates 2.0. Instead of Amazon’s standard program where most products earn 1–3% commissions and the cookie lasts only 24 hours, Levanta connects you directly with Amazon sellers who want influencer-driven sales. That means commissions often jump to 20–30% and sometimes as high as 100% on promotional items. On top of that, the 14-day cookie window gives you a much better shot at capturing delayed purchases.
How creators use Levanta on Instagram in 2025:
Higher-converting links in Reels and carousels: Instead of dropping a standard Amazon affiliate link, influencers swap in Levanta links. The payout difference is huge—especially on trending products where volume is high.
Unboxings and product features: Creators film lifestyle unboxings or tutorials, then tag the product with a Levanta link in their bio hub or DM automation. For example, “Comment UNBOX and I’ll DM you the link” works seamlessly with ManyChat or Stan DM flows.
Link-in-bio strategy: Instead of a general Amazon shop page, influencers build niche product collections (kitchen gadgets, workout gear, beauty finds) with Levanta links in their Stan Store or link hub. Every click is tracked, and the earnings are often 10x higher than Amazon’s default program.
Seller collaborations: Since Levanta connects directly with Amazon sellers, influencers sometimes negotiate exclusive bonuses or higher rates for showcasing a product in a Reel or Story.
4. Stan Store
Stan Store has become one of the most popular affiliate and creator tools on Instagram in 2025 because it solves two big problems at once: selling your own products and promoting affiliate offers in a clean, mobile-first storefront. Unlike traditional link trees, Stan is built for conversions, with instant checkout, upsells, and DM automation baked in.
How creators use Stan Store on Instagram in 2025:
Affiliate hubs that feel native: Instead of sending followers to a cluttered link tree, creators build Stan Stores with curated sections—digital downloads, favorite tools, and affiliate products. Everything opens seamlessly inside Instagram, which keeps drop-off low.
DM automation that drives sales: Stan’s built-in DM automation pairs perfectly with affiliate programs. For example, you can post a Reel about your favorite AI tool and say: “Comment AI and I’ll DM you the link.” Stan instantly delivers the affiliate link, and you never leave the app.
Digital + affiliate bundles: Many creators combine their own digital products with affiliate offers inside Stan. For example: an ebook on “How I Monetize Instagram” paired with affiliate links for tools like ManyChat or LTK. This stacks revenue streams in one storefront.
Pinned content strategy: Creators often pin Reels showcasing their Stan Store—“Here’s everything I use to run my business”—so every new follower sees their affiliate hub immediately.
Analytics that matter: Stan gives you simple dashboards showing what products are being clicked and purchased. This makes it easy to see which affiliate programs actually earn and which ones to cut.
5. ShareASale
ShareASale has been a trusted affiliate network for years, and in 2025 it’s still one of the best platforms for Instagram creators who want variety and flexibility. Instead of being limited to Amazon or a single marketplace, ShareASale gives influencers access to thousands of brands across every niche—fashion, home décor, wellness, SaaS tools, and more.
How creators use ShareASale on Instagram in 2025:
Niche brand partnerships: Creators can apply to individual brand programs inside ShareASale and promote products that match their audience. For example, a fitness influencer can join supplement and workout gear programs, while a home creator can lean into furniture and décor.
Exclusive coupon codes: Many ShareASale merchants provide influencers with custom discount codes, which perform especially well in Instagram Reels and Stories. Pairing an affiliate link with a visible code in the content makes conversions skyrocket.
Story link stickers + DM triggers: Instead of sending followers off-platform, creators drop affiliate links into Story stickers or use DM automation like: “Comment COUPON and I’ll DM you today’s discount code.” Both the link and the code are tracked for commission.
Content variety: Unlike platforms that focus heavily on consumer goods, ShareASale has strong digital and SaaS offers. Creators who blend lifestyle content with business or productivity tips often add these high-ticket programs for bigger payouts.
Cross-platform usage: Just like LTK, ShareASale links aren’t limited to Instagram. Influencers reuse them on blogs, YouTube, Pinterest, and newsletters—making every piece of content work harder.
6. Impact
Impact is one of the biggest affiliate networks in 2025, trusted by top brands across industries from fashion and travel to software and finance. It’s a step up for creators who want access to premium partnerships and higher payouts without having to manage dozens of separate programs.
How creators use Impact on Instagram in 2025:
Premium brand access: Impact partners with global brands like Airbnb, Canva, Adidas, and major SaaS companies. Creators can apply to these programs through one dashboard, making it easy to land partnerships that feel high-value and credible.
High-ticket offers: While Amazon might give you a small percentage per sale, Impact brands often pay higher commissions or flat fees. This makes it especially powerful for influencers in niches like tech, travel, or business tools.
Deep linking tools: Impact lets you create trackable links to any product page. On Instagram, creators drop these into Stories with link stickers or pair them with DM automation to send followers directly to the offer.
Influencer-first integrations: Many Impact merchants now provide custom influencer assets—ready-to-use creative, coupon codes, and exclusive launches—which makes content creation faster and more engaging.
Cross-channel strategy: Just like ShareASale, Impact links work everywhere—Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, blogs, and email—giving creators full flexibility to scale campaigns beyond one platform.
7. Rakuten Advertising
Rakuten Advertising is another major affiliate network that continues to perform well for Instagram creators in 2025. Known for its strong global brand partnerships, Rakuten connects influencers with retailers across fashion, beauty, electronics, and luxury goods. For creators looking to add variety beyond Amazon and LTK, Rakuten is a solid choice.
How creators use Rakuten on Instagram in 2025:
Access to global retailers: Rakuten partners with brands like Walmart, Best Buy, Macy’s, and Sephora, giving influencers high-demand products to promote directly on Instagram.
Exclusive offers + incentives: Many Rakuten merchants offer exclusive promotions or tiered commission structures, which can boost payouts for creators driving consistent sales.
Reels + Story integration: Just like other networks, Rakuten links can be shared with Story stickers, caption links, or automated DM flows. A popular approach is: “Comment BEAUTY and I’ll DM you today’s Sephora picks.”
Luxury and high-ticket niches: Unlike some networks that focus on low-margin products, Rakuten has strong luxury brand relationships. This makes it a smart option for creators in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle niches where followers are ready to spend more.
Cross-platform advantage: Rakuten links aren’t locked to Instagram—they can also be leveraged on Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, and blogs, making them an easy add-on to any content strategy.
8. CJ Affiliate
CJ Affiliate (formerly Commission Junction) is one of the longest-running and most established affiliate networks, and it remains highly relevant for Instagram creators in 2025. Its strength lies in connecting influencers with household-name brands across retail, travel, tech, and finance, giving you a wide pool of offers that your audience already knows and trusts.
How creators use CJ Affiliate on Instagram in 2025:
Big-brand credibility: CJ gives influencers access to well-known companies like Lowe’s, Priceline, J.Crew, Verizon, and GoPro. Promoting recognizable names often builds trust and drives higher conversions on Instagram compared to promoting unknown products.
High-volume niches: From fashion to travel to subscription services, CJ’s catalog is massive. Creators can build themed content around these niches—for example, “My 3 must-have travel gadgets” or “Affordable outfits that look designer”—and link products through CJ.
Instagram-friendly promos: Many CJ merchants offer seasonal campaigns, coupons, and bonus incentives that creators can highlight in Reels and Stories. Pairing these with a visible code or DM automation (e.g., “Comment DEAL for today’s discounts”) makes the content feel timely and actionable.
Reliable payouts and tracking: CJ’s reporting dashboard shows click-throughs, conversions, and commission breakdowns in real time. For creators scaling affiliate income, this data makes it easier to know what’s working.
Cross-platform leverage: Just like Impact and Rakuten, CJ links can be used beyond Instagram—on blogs, Pinterest, YouTube, and TikTok—so you’re not dependent on one channel for earnings.
9. Awin
Awin is a global affiliate network with strong coverage across fashion, beauty, home, finance, and SaaS. It’s a smart add if you want brands beyond the U.S. (Awin’s European catalog is deep) and flexible tools for tracking, coupons, and deep links.
How creators use Awin on Instagram in 2025:
Broad brand access: Apply to individual merchant programs (ASOS, Etsy affiliates via Awin partners, home décor, skincare, travel, fintech). Build themed Reels—“3 under-$30 fall staples,” “small-space storage upgrades”—and link each product via Awin.
Coupon-led content: Many Awin merchants offer creator-specific coupons. Pair Story link stickers with an on-screen code and a DM trigger: “Comment CODE and I’ll DM the discount + links.” Deliver both the code and deep links in one DM flow.
Deep links everywhere: Use Awin’s link builder to create product-level URLs for Reels, carousels, and pinned comments. For roundups, drop a single Awin-tracked hub page in bio (Stan Store or your LTK roundup) and route traffic there.
Niche and evergreen lists: Build saved carousels like “My Sunday Skincare Stack” or “Apartment Essentials Under $50,” each slide tied to an Awin link in your DM automation or bio hub. Refresh items seasonally to keep CTR and conversion up.
Cross-platform reuse: Repurpose Awin links on Pinterest Idea Pins, YouTube descriptions, and your blog. One product shoot fuels multiple channels while keeping tracking centralized in Awin’s dashboard.
10. Direct Brand Referral & Invite Links (e.g., Thistle)
Many brands you already love offer referral or affiliate links—perfect for Instagram because they convert on trust. Example: if you use Thistle for meal delivery, you can grab your personal invite or affiliate link and turn everyday content into recurring credits or cash.
How creators use direct brand links on Instagram in 2025:
Find your link: Log into the brand account → “Refer a friend,” “Invite,” or “Affiliate” in settings/dashboard → copy your unique URL.
Build a simple hub: Add the link to your Stan Store as “My Meal Delivery” with a short blurb (what you order, delivery days, dietary fit). Pin this product in your storefront.
Reels that sell: Film a quick “What I’m eating this week” or unboxing. On-screen CTA: “Comment MEALS and I’ll DM you my link + discount.” Deliver the link via DM automation.
Story flow: Slide 1: plated meal; Slide 2: 15-sec review (taste, macros, price per meal); Slide 3: Link Sticker → “Try my meal plan.” Save to a “Weekly Meals” Highlight.
Caption template: “I don’t skip lunches anymore. I order [Brand], pick high-protein meals, and they show up ready. Comment MEALS and I’ll DM you my link + current discount.”
DM script (auto): “Here’s my [Brand] link + current promo: <your link>. I rotate these meals: [3 favorites]. Want my high-protein picks? Reply PROTEIN.”
Disclosure line: “This uses my referral/affiliate link. I may earn credits or a commission at no extra cost to you.”
Ready to turn this into income? Pick two programs that match your niche (Amazon + one network like Impact or ShareASale), set up a clean hub in Stan Store (instant checkout + DM automation), and script three recurring Reels: one tutorial, one roundup, one unboxing. Add a single DM keyword to deliver links, pin your highest earner, and track what converts—then double down.
