> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.wandreferrals.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.wandreferrals.com/programs-and-commissions/creating-a-program.md).

# Create a program

## What it does

A **program** is the container for a group of affiliates and the rules that govern them: the commission type and rate, the cookie/attribution window, approval behavior, discount/coupon setup, geo rules, and optional advanced features (tiers, MLM, lifetime, subscriptions, bonuses). In the merchant admin, programs appear under the **Programs** nav item. (In the data layer a program is the `Campaign` model — you may see the word "campaign" in technical contexts, but the UI says "program.")

Every shop has a **default** program. Affiliates who register without a specific program land in it.

## When to use

Create a new program when you want a distinct set of rules — for example a higher rate for a VIP tier, a different cookie window for a seasonal push, or a separate coupon strategy for influencers.

## Create a program

1. Open **Programs** and choose **Create program**.
2. Enter a **name** (and optional description).
3. Set the **commission type** and rate — see [Commission types](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/programs/commission-types/README.md).
4. Set the **cookie duration** (attribution window). The default is **30 days**.
5. Choose approval behavior:
   * **Auto approved affiliate** — when on, new affiliates who register into this program are automatically set to **Active**; when off they start **Pending** for your review.
   * **Auto-approve order** (off by default) — new programs use a 30-day approval delay, so attributed commissions remain pending until the hold period elapses. Turn on immediate approval only when commissions should become approved without that review window.
6. Configure discounts/coupons if you want affiliates to share a discount code (see [Coupon vs link tracking](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/attribution/coupon-vs-link/README.md)).
7. Save, then set the program **status**: `DRAFT`, `PRIVATE`, or `PUBLISH` (a public program can accept registrations).

## Key settings at a glance

| Setting                | Default         | Notes                                                                                                                                                       |
| ---------------------- | --------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Commission type        | Percent of sale | [Commission types](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/programs/commission-types/README.md) |
| Commission rate        | 16%             | For percent-of-sale                                                                                                                                         |
| Cookie duration        | 30 days         | Link/cookie attribution window                                                                                                                              |
| Auto approve affiliate | Off             | New registrants start Pending                                                                                                                               |
| Auto-approve order     | Off             | Commissions use a 30-day approval delay                                                                                                                     |
| Disable self-referral  | On              | Affiliate can't earn on their own purchase                                                                                                                  |
| Commission base        | Subtotal only   | [Commission base](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/programs/commission-base/README.md)   |

## Related

* [Commission types](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/programs/commission-types/README.md)
* [Commission base](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/programs/commission-base/README.md)
* [Tiers & multi-level (MLM)](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/programs/tiers-and-mlm/README.md)
* [Registration forms](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/affiliates/registration-forms/README.md)
* [Approval workflow](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/affiliates/approval-workflow/README.md)
* [Geo restrictions & eligibility](https://github.com/wand-referrals-app/wand-referrals/tree/codex/gitbook-docs-foundation/docs/manual/programs/geo-and-eligibility/README.md)