Returns & Reversals

Returns and reversals are data adjustments or audits communicated to BrandU by Brands. These updates may occur in real time or retroactively, as Brands can revise transaction data up to 120+ days after a purchase.

Key Notes:

  • BrandU automatically reflects these adjustments in your analytics. Changes to commission or transaction data are normal.
  • Returns and reversals are categorized differently based on their nature.

Returns

A return occurs when a follower purchases a product via your link but later returns it.

Partial Returns:

  • If only certain items in the cart are returned, the transaction is adjusted to reflect the remaining items.
  • Example: A 10 purchase(8 sunscreen + 2 notepad)becomes 8 after the notepad is returned.
  • Partial returns do not appear under the “Returns” section; instead, the original transaction updates to reflect the new commission.

Full Returns:

  • Only full cart returns are labeled as “Return” in your analytics.
  • Filter transactions in the Dashborad tab to view returns.

Reversals

A reversal occurs when a brand adjusts data based on their commission rules (e.g., action caps, attribution errors).

Non-Return Reversals:

  • Triggered by violations of Brand terms (e.g., exceeding action caps* or attribution* inaccuracies).
  • Example: A Brand caps commissions at 9 sneakers per transaction; purchases of 10+ sneakers are reversed.

Non-Commissionable Transactions:

  • Entire transactions are reversed if all items are non-commissionable per Brand rules.
  • Example: A cart containing only groceries (non-commissionable items) is reversed.

Note: Reversals cannot currently be filtered in analytics.

Important Definitions:

  • Action Caps: Quantity limits set by Brands (e.g., “max 10 units per transaction”).
  • Attribution: A Brand’s criteria for awarding commissions (e.g., tracking logic).

BrandU continuously works to enhance data transparency and user experience. For questions, join our Discord and find our team directly.

FAQ

What are best practices for increasing sales?
  1. Track trends via industry reports & customer insights.
  2. Drive decisions with sales metrics & campaign data.
  3. Boost engagement through polls/Q&A/live chats.
  4. Craft platform-specific content (videos, tutorials, curated guides).
Why didn’t I receive payment?

There are only a few reasons as to why you may not receive a payout, such as:

  • You did not select your payment method.
  • There is an active returns and reversals balance greater than your earnings. (Review the Transaction history.)
  • You did not earn commission for that pay cycle. (Review analytics)
  • Your commission earnings for the cycle were less than the minimum threshold.
  • Account is on hold and requires verification.
Which time zone are payouts allocated?

It is important to note that payments are calculated in CST for the pay period. All payments will net accordingly for the month depending on the time zone you are in.

What are the minimum thresholds?

Payout requests are processed when your balance reaches $80.00 USD within a payment cycle. If earnings don’t meet the threshold, they remain securely in your account and automatically roll over to the next cycle. Every dollar you earn matters—we safeguard your balance until it qualifies for payout. Once your balance meets the threshold and you submit a payout request, funds will be transferred to you within 3 business days.

Why didn’t the order track? 
  • Attribution Model: Most brands use last-click attribution (credit goes to the final affiliate clicked). If a user interacts with another site (e.g., coupon toolbar) after your link, you lose credit.
  • Ad Blockers: Block tracking cookies, preventing brands from recording affiliate-driven sales.
  • Cookie Duration: Sales outside the cookie window (e.g., 30 days) aren’t tracked. Competing clicks after yours can overwrite tracking.
  • Coupon Codes: Unique codes may override affiliate links, redirecting credit to other partners.
  • User Error: Shoppers may claim they clicked your link but actually used another source or abandoned the session.
  • Delayed Tracking: Brands like Walmart report sales 3-5 days later, creating lag in visibility.