USA Affiliate/B2B License

Have questions? We're here to help!

Message us on Telegram or WhatsApp for fast assistance!

Affiliate licensing in the USA is essential for businesses and individuals who want to earn from promoting betting sites or online services. Each state sets its own rules, fees, and application steps, making compliance complex and region-specific. Whether you are launching a new affiliate business or need to ensure your operations remain within legal boundaries, understanding the license process is key. On this page, we explain what a USA affiliate license is, how it works, and what you need to get started confidently and correctly.

Financial district skyscrapers panorama

Advantages

  • tax - Legarithm legal services
    Click to learn more

    Tax Compliance & Maximized Savings

    By forming a business entity such as an LLC or S-Corp, you can deduct ordinary and necessary business expenses—such as website hosting, advertising, and marketing software—under IRS tax rules. This not only lowers your taxable income but also improves the cost-efficiency of your affiliate business.

  • Legal service icon
    Click to learn more

    Legal Protection & Risk Mitigation

    Minimize Legal Risks by protecting yourself from potential legal disputes by ensuring your business follows the proper FTC guidelines for disclosures, tax filings, and sales tax compliance.

  • gaming - Legarithm legal services
    Click to learn more

    Access to Better Affiliate Programs

    Many top-tier affiliate networks require affiliates to have an official business entity in place. As a registered company, you’ll gain access to exclusive and high-paying affiliate programs from well-known brands, maximizing your potential earnings.

Compliance and Reporting Obligations for U.S. Affiliates

Register with Gaming Regulator

Many states require prior approval

Register Business/Company

LLC, Corporation, or Sole Proprietor status

File Annual Tax Returns

Federal and state (if nexus established)

Maintain FTC Advertising Disclosures

Mandatory on all affiliate sites

Keep Privacy Policy on Website

Legal requirement in U.S. and for partner networks

Responsible Gaming Statements

Essential in gambling/sports betting affiliate marketing

Ongoing State Fees

Annual or periodic re-licensing in many states

Ongoing State Fees

Annual or periodic re-licensing in many states

No Operator-Equivalent Reports

Affiliates do not file same level of detailed reports

6 Steps to Obtain an Affiliate License

  • Step 01

    Initial assessment

    We will begin by discussing your business model and determining which states are the best fit for your affiliate activities. We’ll assess the type of services you plan to promote, ensuring that you understand the legal landscape and market opportunities in those states.

  • Step 02

    Analyzing state regulations

    After identifying the relevant jurisdictions, we will research the specific state regulations for gambling affiliate licensing. Each state has different rules, application procedures, and compliance measures.
    As part of the process, license issuance fees (typically paid directly to the state regulator) will be due once your application is approved. These fees are separate from our consulting services but are essential for securing the license.

  • Step 03

    Background checks and identity verification

    We will coordinate the necessary background checks for your company’s directors, shareholders, and other key individuals. These include helping you obtain certificates of no criminal record, verifying identities with passports and proofs of address, and ensuring all relevant documents are submitted to the state regulators.

  • Step 04

    Submission of the application

    Once all the documents are prepared and reviewed, we will assist with the formal submission of your affiliate license application to the appropriate state gaming authority. We’ll ensure that everything is properly filled out, fees are paid, and all supporting documentation is attached.

  • Step 05

    Communication with regulators

    The application process can take time, and state regulators may request additional information. We will follow up with regulators on your behalf and respond promptly to any queries or requests for clarification.

  • Step 06

    Drafting and reviewing legal documents

    Legarithm will assist in drafting the affiliate partnership agreements between your company and the licensed operator. Additionally, we will help prepare all required corporate documents and ownership structures.

Key States With Affiliate Licensing Requirements

  • State License Required Revenue Model Restrictions Licensing Authority Notes
    Arizona Yes CPA & Revenue Share Both Regulated Arizona Dept. of Gaming Stringent process for Rev-Share models
    Colorado Yes CPA or Revenue Share Colorado Gaming Division Less rigorous for CPA; annual renewal
    Indiana Yes Not specified Indiana Gaming Commission Standard application process
    Maryland Yes Not specified Maryland Lottery & Gaming Fee varies by applicant type
    Michigan Yes Not specified Michigan Gaming Control Bd Lower fees, two-year license option
    New Jersey Yes CPA & Revenue Share Both Regulated NJ Division of Gaming Operator files on behalf of affiliate
    Pennsylvania Yes CPA & Revenue Share Both Regulated PA Gaming Control Board Multiple fees, all models covered
    Virginia Yes Not specified Virginia Lottery Board
    West Virginia Yes CPA & Revenue Share Both Regulated WV Lottery Commission Similar scrutiny as for operators
    Wyoming No No affiliate license required for sports betting
    Nebraska Yes Not specified Nebraska Racing & Gaming Registration fee only, minimal documentation
  • State 1 Year Fee 2 Year Fee 3 Year Fee Additional Fees
    Arizona $1,500 — (must extend) $500
    Colorado $350 — (must extend)
    Indiana $500
    Maryland $100–$1,000 — (must extend)
    Michigan $200 $100
    Pennsylvania $500 $60+$2,500 (additional)
    Virginia $500 — (must extend)
    West Virginia $1,000 — (must extend)
    Wyoming $0 Registration fee: $100
    Nebraska $120
  • Document/Item Notes
    Contract with State-Licensed Operator Must show commercial relationship
    Corporate Documents of Applicant Certificate of incorporation, bylaws, etc.
    Passports and Proofs of Address For directors and shareholders
    Company Ownership Structure Organizational chart
    Certificates of Absence of Criminal Record For significant persons (directors, shareholders)
    EIN (Employer Identification Number) U.S. Tax ID required
    Application Forms State-specific forms, sometimes available online
    Fingerprints Required in some states
    Tax Registration Registration for state and federal tax purposes
    Disclosure of Previous Regulatory Issues Details of any prior license denials or compliance issues
  • Affiliate Program Industry/Niche Licenses Required for U.S. Partners Notes
    DraftKings Affiliate Sports Betting Yes, in regulated states Only after state license
    FanDuel Affiliate Sports Betting & DFS Yes, in regulated states Must apply and be approved
    Amazon Associates Retail/Ecommerce No General business license
    Clickbank Digital Products No General business license
    PartnerStack SaaS/B2B No Platform for multiple offers
    BetMGM Affiliate Online Gambling Yes, in regulated states Strict compliance policy

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer to your question? Send us an email and we'll get back to you as soon as possible!
What is an affiliate license and why do I need one?

An affiliate license allows businesses or individuals to legally promote gambling or sports betting services in a regulated market. It ensures that you can operate in compliance with state laws, receive commissions for referring players to licensed operators, and advertise those services without legal risk. In many jurisdictions, affiliate marketing for gambling or sports betting is only allowed if the affiliate is licensed by the appropriate gaming authority.

How long does it take to get an affiliate license?

The timeline for obtaining an affiliate license can vary by state, but it generally takes between 2 to 6 months from the application submission to receiving approval. The process can be delayed if additional documentation or background checks are required, so it’s important to prepare all required materials in advance.

What are the costs involved in obtaining an affiliate license?

The main costs are typically application fees and license issuance fees. Application fees generally range from $500 to $5,000, while annual license issuance fees start from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the state. Additional fees may apply for background checks and compliance reporting.

Do I need an affiliate license for each state where I want to operate?

Yes, you will need to obtain an affiliate license for each state where you plan to operate legally, as gambling laws are state-specific. Each state with legalized sports betting or online gambling has its own licensing requirements and fees, so it’s crucial to check the laws in each jurisdiction where you intend to market or refer players.

What happens if I don’t obtain an affiliate license?

Operating without the proper affiliate license can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines, penalties, or cease-and-desist orders from state regulators. Additionally, your affiliate commissions from licensed operators may be withheld, and you may face reputational damage within the industry.

Are there any ongoing obligations once I receive my affiliate license?

Yes, there are ongoing obligations, including:
Annual renewal of your license (with associated fees)
Maintaining compliance with advertising regulations, anti-money laundering (AML) practices, and reporting requirements
Regular updates on your company’s ownership or structure, if applicable.

Can I apply for an affiliate license if I am based outside the U.S.?

Yes, international companies can apply for an affiliate license in the U.S., as long as they meet the regulatory requirements of the state(s) they are applying to. You will need to provide documentation on your company’s structure, ownership, and key personnel, and comply with all state laws regarding foreign entities.

Our Services Include

Trademark Registration

Protect your brand and intellectual property with trademark registration services.

Business Banking Setup

Open a U.S. business bank account and set up efficient payment systems for receiving affiliate commissions.

Corporate Governance

We assist in drafting operating agreements, bylaws, and other corporate documents necessary for smooth operations.

Global Expansion

Planning to take your affiliate business to new markets? We provide international expansion services, helping you set up businesses in other countries and ensuring compliance with local tax laws.

We Are Always Available

Our team ensures your business setup is smooth, efficient, and compliant with local laws. Contact us today to discuss your project.

Offices map
Estonia
Ukraine
Cyprus
UAE
United States
cyprus

Cyprus, Limassol

Arch. Makarios Av. III, No. 1-7, Mitsis Building 3, 3rd floor, Office 302, 1065 Nicosia

estonia

Estonia, Tallinn

Tallinn,  Harju maakond, Lasnamäe linnaosa, Ruunaoja tn 3, 11415

uae

UAE, Dubai

Building A1, Dubai Digital Park, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai, UAE

ukraine

Ukraine, Kyiv

Kyiv, Mykhailo Boychuk Street, Office 3011, 01103, Ukraine

usa

United States, New York

228 Park Ave S, New York City, New York, 10003, USA

Get in Touch

Leave your inquiry, and our legal team will get back to you as soon as possible. Initial consultation is free of charge and confidential.