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On October 5^th, 2009 the FTC published and released to the public its final revisions on guides governing endorsements and testimonials.

So what does this mean for Bloggers that promote product?

So, what this means is you have to state in your reviews or endorsing type of promotion, that you will be compensated should someone by from your link. In a nutshell the general public must be informed by you that you will be compensated either by a gift or by money from the product owner should the consumer purchase from your link based on your endorsement. You may do somethin as simple as saying, “Hey if you buy from this link I will get a little commission if thats alright with you” Something like that. Seeking legal advice is your best bet to be clear on the rules. I am absuletly not a lawer and have no expertise in law. “That’s right, this is a little disclaimer.”

This new ruling goes into effect on Dec. 1^st, 2009. You should know that this is not a bad thing for bloggers that promote with hoensty and integrity. What can hurt you is if you don’t comply.

David Goldman, staff writer for CNN Money notes in his article released on October 6^th, that the existing rules carry a fine as high as $11,000 if product endorsers and reviewers don’t comply.

Frank Kern did an amazing job writing a post on this subject also. you can do a search for him if you have not read his stuff already. Franks article gives some cool stuff that he learned from his lawyer buddy.

So, do yourself a favor and go to the Federal Trade Commission site and read the entire article.

Personally, I think it is great for bloggers that are truthful and want to give great content to help consumers make informed decision on a purchase. I truely am sold on the fact that this will help the good guy out there and weed out the deceptive marketers and give our customers a warm fuzzy felling again about buying online.

Till next time!

The Bloggomaniac