How to Set Up an Affiliate Program in GoHighLevel (Updated 2025 Guide)

TL;DR

GoHighLevel’s Affiliate Manager lets you run a built-in referral system without external software.
You can create campaigns, set commission rates, share affiliate links, track conversions, and manage payouts inside your CRM.
The 2025 update adds a working Affiliate Portal for affiliates to log in and view their stats.

Why Use GoHighLevel’s Affiliate Manager

• Native integration with your funnels and checkout pages.
• Track clicks, conversions, and payouts directly in-app.
• Give affiliates secure login access through the new Affiliate Portal.
• Simplify management using payout status tracking (Pending → Approved → Paid).
• Maintain consistent attribution using customizable cookie windows.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Access Affiliate Manager
   • Go to Marketing → Affiliate Manager → Campaigns.
   • Click Add Campaign.
2. Create Your Campaign
   • Enter a name (e.g., “Video Course Referral Program”).
   • Choose the funnel that includes your checkout form.
   • Add an optional description.
3. Set Commission Details
   • Choose Percentage (%) or Fixed Amount ($) commission.
   • Example: 40 % recurring or $50 per sale.
   • Set payout frequency (Net 30 or custom).
4. Define Cookie Duration
   • Standard range 60 – 90 days.
   • Longer cookies = better affiliate retention.
   • Advise affiliates to test in incognito mode to avoid cookie conflicts.
5. Add Affiliates
   • Click Affiliates → Add Affiliate.
   • Import from Contacts or add manually.
   • Once added, each gets an automatic portal login + unique link.
6. Assign Products to the Campaign
   • Connect your funnel products for accurate commission tracking.
   • Supports one-time or subscription-based offers.
7. Share Affiliate Links
   • Under each affiliate profile, copy the unique tracking link.
   • Share it via email or chat so they can start promoting.
8. Monitor Performance and Payouts
   • Use the dashboard to track clicks, leads, and sales.
   • View payout status: Pending → Approved → Paid.
   • Export data to CSV if needed for bookkeeping.

Updated Affiliate Portal (2025)

Affiliates now have login access to their own dashboard:

• See total earnings, clicks, and conversion rates.
• Copy their unique tracking links easily.
• Download assets and promotional material (if provided).
• View payout history and commission tiers.

Admins can enable or disable portal access under Affiliate Manager → Settings → Portal Access.

Example Configuration

Common Questions

1. Can affiliates log in to see their stats?
Yes, the Affiliate Portal lets them view earnings and links after you invite them.

2. Can I let affiliates self-register?
Not yet. You must add them manually or import from contacts.

3. How are payouts handled?
You record them in GHL, but send payments manually through PayPal or bank transfer.

4. Does GHL track recurring commissions?
Yes, if the linked product is a subscription plan.

5. What’s the recommended cookie window?
60 – 90 days is ideal for most digital offers.