FTC Disclaimer
Scripture Study Zone — https://scripturestudyzone.com
Effective Date: August 22, 2025
Contact: jimrgarrison@gmail.com
1) Scope & Purpose
This disclaimer explains how we handle affiliate links, sponsorships, endorsements, and paid reviews on Scripture Study Zone (“we,” “us,” “our”). We follow the FTC Endorsement Guides, which require clear and conspicuous disclosure of any material connection—that is, any relationship that could affect how readers evaluate an endorsement (e.g., payment, free products, affiliate commissions). eCFRLegal Information Institute
2) Our Disclosure Commitments (What You’ll See)
When content includes a material connection, we will:
- Label the content near the top with a prominent disclosure (e.g., “Sponsored”, “Ad”, “Paid Review”, or “Affiliate Links Included”).
- Place the disclosure close to the claim or link, not hidden in footers, profiles, or behind toggles.
- Use plain, unavoidable wording that’s easy to notice and understand on all devices.
- Match the disclosure to the medium (visual disclosures for visual content; audio disclosures for audio; both for video). Federal Trade Commission+2Federal Trade Commission+2
Acceptable labels include: “Ad,” “Sponsored,” “Paid Partnership,” “Affiliate Link(s).” We don’t use vague tags like “sp,” “spon,” or ambiguous emojis. Federal Trade Commission
3) Affiliate Links
- Some links on our site are affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking those links.
- There’s no additional cost to you. Any commission is paid by the merchant. If a link would change the price you pay, we’ll say so clearly right next to the link.
- We select affiliates based on relevance and usefulness, and our opinions remain our own.
4) Sponsorships, Endorsements & Paid Reviews
- If an article, video, newsletter, or social post is sponsored or paid, we’ll mark it “Sponsored” or “Ad” at the beginning and keep disclosures with the content throughout, where needed.
- If we receive free products, discounts, or other value that could affect our views, we’ll disclose that relationship each time we talk about the product or service.
- We don’t guarantee positive coverage. Our views are based on our honest assessment.
- We don’t encourage endorsements or reviews on platforms or features that don’t allow clear disclosures. Federal Trade Commission
5) Placement & Formatting Standards
To keep disclosures clear and conspicuous:
- Proximity: Disclosures appear with the endorsement, near the claim or link (not buried).
- Prominence: Disclosures are at least as noticeable as surrounding text (and not overshadowed by design).
- Presentation: No jargon; short, direct labels (e.g., “Ad,” “Sponsored,” “Affiliate link”).
- Unavoidability: Disclosures aren’t hidden behind clicks, hovers, or long pages.
- Consistency across devices: Disclosures are visible on desktop and mobile. Federal Trade Commission+1
6) Editorial Independence
- Our content aims to be informative and helpful.
- Compensation never requires positive coverage. If compensation affects placement or timing, we’ll disclose it.
7) No Warranties; Your Responsibility
- We don’t control third-party websites, products, descriptions, pricing, or policies. Always review the merchant’s terms and privacy policy before buying.
- We try to keep information current but offers can change without notice.
8) Third-Party Claims & Links — Liability Disclaimer
- We disclaim liability for claims, representations, or conduct by third parties, including merchants, brands, affiliate networks, or platforms.
- Links to third-party sites are provided for convenience. We’re not responsible for their content, security, or data practices.
9) How to Ask Questions or Raise Concerns
Email jimrgarrison@gmail.com with questions about disclosures or to report a missing or confusing disclosure.
10) Compliance Reference
We aim to comply with the FTC Endorsement Guides (16 C.F.R. Part 255), including §255.5 on disclosure of material connections, and related FTC guidance on clear and conspicuous disclosures across digital media. Legal Information InstituteeCFRFederal Trade Commission+1
11) Severability
If any part of this disclaimer is found invalid or unenforceable, the remaining sections stay in effect.
12) Governing Law & Jurisdiction
This disclaimer is governed by the laws of Portugal. Disputes will be handled by the courts of Caldas da Rainha, Portugal.
13) Changes to This Disclaimer
We may update this disclaimer to reflect changes in law or our practices. We’ll post updates here with a new effective date.
14) Change History
| Version | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Aug 22, 2025 | Initial FTC Disclaimer published for Scripture Study Zone. |