legal

FTC Disclosure

Definition

The Federal Trade Commission requires that creators clearly and conspicuously disclose any material connection to a brand when promoting its products. This includes paid relationships, free product, and equity stakes. Required disclosure tags include #ad, #sponsored, or similar language per FTC guidelines.

For Creators

FTC disclosure is your legal obligation—not just a contractual one. Even if a brand asks you not to disclose, you remain personally liable under FTC regulations. Refusing to disclose when requested is also grounds for contract breach.

For Brands

Failure to ensure creator compliance with FTC disclosure requirements exposes the brand to FTC enforcement actions and civil penalties. Always contractually require FTC-compliant disclosures and audit creator posts for compliance.

⚠ Red Flag Warning

Any brand contract that explicitly discourages or prohibits FTC disclosures is itself an FTC violation. Walk away from any deal that asks you to hide the paid nature of a partnership.

Sample Contract Language

Creator shall include a clear and conspicuous disclosure of the material connection between Creator and Brand in all Sponsored Content, including but not limited to using the hashtags "#ad" or "#sponsored" prominently in any caption or overlay, consistent with the FTC's Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials.

Related Terms

Appears in 6 contracts

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