# Recurring vs One-Time Affiliate Commission: Which Earns More?

Published 2026-10-23 · Data updated 2026-10-23 · https://clickaffiliate.net/blog/recurring-vs-one-time-commission/

A one-time commission pays you once per sale. A recurring commission pays you every billing cycle the customer stays — for 12 months, 24 months or the lifetime of the account.

## The math

A tool costs $30/month. Program A pays a one-time $50. Program B pays 30% recurring for 12 months: $9 × 12 = **$108** per customer if they stay a year. With lifetime terms and a two-year average customer, it becomes $216.

## When one-time is better

For products with high churn, annual plans paid up front, or high-ticket flat bounties ($100–$500 per signup), a one-time payout can win. Compare the numbers, not the label.

Filter our [directory](https://clickaffiliate.net/programs/) by commission type to see the best recurring programs today.