# How to start an affiliate program for an iOS app

> Start with a commission-only offer, then connect each referred account to StoreKit 2 so subscriptions and refunds can be attributed server-side.

Published: 2026-07-14 · Last reviewed: 2026-07-14

## The launch plan

Decide the qualifying purchase, commission basis, hold, refund rule, and permitted promotion before recruiting. Attribloom then binds a referred user to an Attribloom-issued appAccountToken and confirms purchase events from App Store Server Notifications v2.

- Define the paid action and exclusions.
- Give each affiliate a link or referral code.
- Bind on first launch and reuse the issued token.
- Set the token on the StoreKit 2 purchase.
- Forward Apple notifications, then test purchase, renewal, and refund.

## What this does not do

This is purchase attribution for an affiliate program. It is not install-ad measurement, device fingerprinting, an affiliate marketplace, or a substitute for your own entitlement logic.

## Launch review

Run the sandbox path before production. Confirm the referred account, signed Apple event, commission hold, and refund clawback all resolve to the same conversion before inviting partners.

## Frequently asked

### Does an iOS affiliate program require fingerprinting?

No. Attribloom uses deterministic account binding and Apple's appAccountToken rather than device fingerprinting.

## Primary sources

- [Apple: appAccountToken](https://developer.apple.com/documentation/appstoreservernotifications/appaccounttoken) · checked 2026-07-14
- [Apple: enabling App Store Server Notifications](https://developer.apple.com/documentation/storekit/enabling-app-store-server-notifications) · checked 2026-07-14

## Next steps

- [StoreKit 2 integration guide](/guides/ios)
- [iOS testing guide](/guides/ios-testing)
- [Pricing](/pricing)
- [GoMarketMe alternative](/compare/gomarketme-alternative)