How the Model Works
01
We review products independently, using each provider's publicly available rate and fee disclosures.
02
We apply our scoring rubric. The results determine our rankings.
03
After rankings are set, we apply to affiliate programs for the top products. If approved, we add affiliate links.
04
If a product ranks well but has no affiliate program, it stays in the ranking with a non-affiliate link.
05
Products do not move up or down in our rankings because of affiliate status. We have never done this. If we ever do, we will disclose it explicitly.
Which Products Pay Us
| Product Name | Category | Affiliate Partner | Commission Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beacon Savings | Savings | NetBank Partner Network | Per approved account opened |
| Ledgerline Cash Back Card | Credit Card | CardLink Network | Per approved application |
| Cobalt Rewards Card | Credit Card | Issuer direct | Per approved application |
| Vantage Point Robo-Advisor | Investing | Direct partnership | Per funded account |
| Arbor Personal Loan | Loans | LendPartner Network | Per funded loan |
| Northshore Bank Savings | Savings | No affiliate program | Not applicable |
This table is updated every time a new affiliate relationship is added or removed.
Where We Draw the Line
What we do
- Test every product with the same criteria.
- Disclose affiliate relationships clearly.
- Update reviews when pricing or features change.
What we don't do
- Accept payment to change a score.
- Rank products by commission size.
- Publish reviews of products we haven't verified against provider disclosures.