Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Shaklee?

Founded in 1956 by Dr. Forrest C. Shaklee, Shaklee Corporation helped pioneer both the nutritional supplement and network marketing industries, and quickly grew to become one of the most respected and successful health and wellness companies in the world.

For nearly 50 years, Shaklee has offered products of unsurpassed quality, and an income opportunity that has created a lifestyle of freedom and financial independence for thousands of Shaklee Independent Distributors.

Everyone says their products are the best. How is Shaklee different?

With our own Research & Development facility, investment of over $250 million in product research and development, over 100 peer-reviewed clinical studies published in respected journals, over 83,000 quality assurance tests per year, and award-winning manufacturing in a pharmaceutical grade facility, Shaklee's approach to product development and ensuring the highest product quality sets the standard for the dietary supplement industry.

Shaklee formulations are based on proven science (not the latest fad). Our ingredients are carefully chosen first for their naturalness, and to ensure the highest bioavailability.

Shaklee products are safe and proven – and they come with a 100% unconditional satisfaction guarantee. Try our products and see for yourself. If you haven't experienced a difference in how you feel after 30 days of use ... return them for a full refund.

Are Shaklee products sold in stores?

No. When Dr. Shaklee founded Shaklee almost 50 years ago, he made the decision to create a unique method of product distribution. He believed that a network of Independent Distributors, taking ownership of their own business would be a superior marketing model. He understood the value of Word Of Mouth Marketing.

Fifty years later, with network marketing in the middle of a global explosion, Dr. Shaklee’s theory has been proven around the world.

Why haven't I heard of Shaklee before?

Because Shaklee doesn’t advertise through typical marketing channels like radio and television.

In 1956, Shaklee became the first company in America to use the distributor network business model which bypasses the middleman and allows individuals to purchase directly from the company through and independent distributor.

This new Word Of Mouth system has allowed the company to reward their independent business owners with generous commissions for their efforts in finding and supplying a group of customers.

Shaklee has paid it’s distributor force almost $4 billion in commissions. This Word Of Mouth distribution model is growing at a rate of 475,000 new people per week around the world.

Click here to read an article on this industry by economist Paul Zane Pilzer

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Questions About Membership

Do I have to become a Member to use Shaklee products?

No. Membership isn't required to purchase Shaklee products. You can purchase from a distributor personally or through their Personal Web Site without becoming a Member. When you consider the benefits you can enjoy as a Shaklee Member, there are three ways to join.

Distributor benefits include:

• New Distributor Kit includes the Shaklee Product Guide, Catalog, video, Membership Card and Welcome Letter
• Preferred pricing automatically gives you 15% off SRP on all Shaklee products
• You’ll receive quarterly mailings of the Shaklee Catalog and enjoy deeper discounts throughout the year on special promotions available only to Shaklee Members.
• Easy access to online ordering and in-depth product information online
• Access to the AutoShip program which brings Shaklee products right to your front door on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. You choose what you want, when you want it. You can change your order and you can stop at any time with no penalty.

If I become a Member, does that mean I have to sell the products?

Not at all. All Shaklee Members are encouraged to purchase Shaklee products for their own use.

When you fall in love with the products you use, you will probably want to share your good fortune with friends and family. All of the options are yours ... there are no minimums.

What's the difference between being a Member and being a Distributor?

Everyone who joins Shaklee as a Member can purchase products at a discount and for the additional benefits.

Shaklee Independent Distributors are eligible to earn commissions and other incentives. To earn a bonus, all you have to do is have your Business Leader appoint you a Distributor. No additional fees or applications required.

For federal and state TAX purposes, a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is required for appointment to Distributor.

If I become a Member am I obligated to buy products each month?

Members are never required to purchase products.

Why do I need a driver's license number or Social Security number to sign up?

Shaklee uses your driver's license number as a unique identifier to ensure the relationship with your sponsoring Distributor is accurately maintained in our systems.

If you wish to become a Shaklee Distributor, for federal and state tax reporting purposes, a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is required. Your personal information is kept secure by Shaklee and is never sold or shared with third-party entities.

I lost my membership number. What should I do?

Please call 1-800-SHAKLEE (1-800-742-5533), M-F, 6–7 pm Pacific Time, and a Customer Service Representative will be happy to provide you with your Shaklee identification number.

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Questions About the Income Opportunity

What is the income potential of a Shaklee business?

There are no limits. Shaklee has paid it's distributors close to $4 billon in commissions. What you earn depends on your efforts. The top Distributors in Shaklee earn over a million dollars a year.

Average Shaklee 1099 Earnings by Rank

2004 Income Disclaimer Based on total 1099 compensation (2004 Form 1099-misc.)

The average annual income in 2004 ranged from $5,800 for Directors, to $372,800 for Master Coordinators.

(The Fast Start Program is new and separate from the Shaklee compensation plan: there is no earnings history for this Program.)

All results are based on individual effort. Shaklee Corporation does not guarantee that any particular income level will be achieved.

Many in Shaklee choose to build a part-time business that helps pay extra expenses, such as family vacations, car payments, or tuition. Many others choose to build a satisfying career in Shaklee with the freedom to set their own hours, goals and income targets.

*Earnings will vary with effort. Shaklee does not guarantee success or that any particular level of earnings will be achieved.

How do I make money in Shaklee?

The Shaklee Compensation Plan offers you the ability to earn in three different ways:

• Price Differentials
• Volume commissions and
• Leadership Bonuses (Overrides)

What does PV stand for?

PV stands for "Personal Volume" and is used to determine the percentage of the Volume Bonus you receive at the end of the month. PV is sometimes called "points". Each Shaklee product has an assigned PV value. The more PV you and your personal group (Personal Group Volume or PGV) do in a given month, the higher your Volume Bonus.*

*Note: Bonus percentages eligibility for Shaklee Independent Distributors below the rank of Director are suggested only. Shaklee Business Leaders are independent business people, and may pay bonuses to Distributors and Associates in their Personal Group on a different Volume Bonus schedule so long as they publish it in advance of signing that person signing up in as a Distributor.

What is the cost of starting a Shaklee business?

There are three way to join Shaklee. You can join as a member for $19.95 and purchase product wholesale.  You can join as a Distributor for $39.95 and enjoy all of the benefits of distributorship including commissions on volume generated by your personal group.

You can also get started with the FastStart program for $299 and receive 125 PV and $100 bonus for every person you bring into the business as a FastStart Distributor.

3 Ways to Get Started ...

1. Fast Start: $299
   • Everything you need to start and build your business fast!
   • Includes everything in the Distributor Welcome Kit, PLUS
   • Multiple copies of important DVDs and brochures to help get you going  
   • 3 free months of your own Shaklee Personal Web Site
   • 125 PV and $100 bonus for every one you sell
   • A full month’s supply of the Shaklee Wellness Pack:      
     • Essential Foundation to create lifelong vitality
     • NutriFeron™ to strengthen your immunity**
     • OmegaGuard™ to protect your heart**
2. Distributor Welcome Kit ... $39.95
   • All the basics you need to start, own, and operate your Shaklee business!
   • A step-by-step Success Manual to guide you through creating your personal Plan of Action
   • Includes a complete Join Us Opportunity presentation, brochures, and DVD
   • Special product and business tools to get you started
   • Helpful resource guide to keep you going
   • Includes all the benefits of Membership
3. New Member Pack ... $19.95
   • Enjoy our high quality products at a discount or start your own Shaklee business.
   • Save 15% off retail prices
   • FREE access to MyShaklee.com
   • Informative health and product information
   • Special discounts and offers

Discuss the best way to get started with your sponsor and remember ... your first order is the first of many tax deductions you’ll be able to take advantage of as an independent business owner.

In addition to the initial sign up fee ... many people sign up for a Shaklee Personal Web Site as part of their business package. You can can send people to your personal site to order products online and to signing up online.

The initial cost for a Shaklee website is $29.95 which pays for getting your online business set up and the first month of service. Then it cost just $14.95 per month for the website thereafter. You don't need technical skills to operate a Shaklee website and you can have your website up in matter of minutes.

You'll will probably also want to buy business cards, Shaklee Product Guides, additional Shaklee Catalogs, and sales materials related to your business focus. As a rule of thumb, consider budgeting about $100 for sales and marketing tools to help you launch your business.

What you spend to start your Shaklee business depends on your financial situation, your goals, product purchase and business focus.

How do I sign up for a Shaklee Personal Website?

Once you become a Member, go to the My Shaklee Distributor Web Site, (www.myshaklee.com) click on the My Web Site tab and enter your new ID number.

Follow the simple instructions and set up your web site. Decide on a name for your site, enter some information about you and your excitement about your new Shaklee business in the about me section. Your new site is now ready to show to the world.

Do I have to keep an inventory?

Carrying inventory is not a requirement in Shaklee; you are not required to invest money in product to resell. Many Shaklee Distributors work with Member customers who order directly from Shaklee Corporation (Member Direct Ordering), either through calling 1-800-SHAKLEE (1-800-742-5533) or online, using their own Shaklee ID number.

Many Distributors maintain a small inventory of products to demonstrate or to have on hand for spontaneous sales. Others do maintain large inventories, and some even ship to their own customers. The way you choose to do business with Shaklee is your choice; one of the great things about being an Independent Distributor.

How much time should I be prepared to dedicate to my Shaklee business?

A Shaklee business is designed to fit into any lifestyle. It has been recommended that a new Distributor spend at least six to ten hours a week getting their Shaklee business started.

If you want to grow faster, invest more time and talk to more people.

What kind of Training and Support will be available to me?

Shaklee Distributors receive essential support from two key partners in developing their business: their upline sponsor, and the Shaklee Home Office.

From their upline sponsor, Distributors receive group and one-on-one coaching, and formal Training is available through local and regional meetings, as well as through National Shaklee Events and Conference Calls.

This weblog is a great way to learn many of the skills you will need to develop a Shaklee organization. The key is to talk to as many people as possible and share with them your Shaklee story.

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Questions About Shaklee Products

What's the best way to start a nutrition program?

Start with the Essential Foundation (Shaklee Basics® and Soy Protein) program and add targeted supplements as needed, based on the information you'll find in Shaklee literature and on the web at www.shaklee.net/healthy4u

If you have a medical condition or disease or are taking prescription medication, always check with your doctor before starting a nutritional supplement program.

Is there a specific time of day to take Shaklee Basics?

Take Shaklee Basics at your convenience and as directed on product labeling. It's better to take your supplements than to forget them because you are trying to fit a rigid schedule. For optimum benefit, spread your supplement servings throughout the day with meals, as this generally supports maximum nutrient absorption.

Which Shaklee products contain gluten?

Based on ingredient profiles, the following products likely contain gluten:

• Carbo-Crunch - Malt extract from barley
• Multi Munch - Oat fiber
• Fiber Plan Daily Crunch - Oat bran
• Fiber Plan Daily Mix - Oat bran
• Herb-Lax - Dried malt powder from barley
• Iron plus Vitamin C - Barley flour
• MoodLift Capsules - Green oat extract
• Zinc - Barley powder

I have difficulty swallowing tablets. Does Shaklee offer an alternative?

Shaklee offers several alternatives for those who prefer not to swallow tablets:

• CitriBoost™, a powdered multi-vitamin/multi-mineral supplement designed to mix with your favorite morning fruit juice
• Liqui-Lea® Plus Iron, naturally sweetened, fruit flavored high-potency liquid multivitamin contains 10 essential vitamins plus iron to promote long-term good health
• Chewable Cal Mag Plus, berry-flavored alternative with 1,000 mg of elemental calcium to help build bones, and maintain bone density
• Chewable Vita-C®, 100 mg of citrus flavored Vitamin C, to support the body's natural antioxidant defenses and help maintain cell integrity
• Meal Shakes (French Vanilla/Bavarian Cocoa) provide 45% or more of the Daily Values for 19 essential vitamins and minerals, and are a rich source of calcium as well as an excellent source of dietary fiber and protein
• Vita-Lea® Ocean Wonders™ , the most comprehensive, tooth-friendly multivitamin and mineral supplement available for kids.
• Plus sports, fiber and soy protein nutrition available in drink mixes and bars!

How long before Shaklee product are out of date and should not be taken?

The products are good for several months to a few years, depending on perishability of the individual product. The Shaklee dietary supplements are stamped with an expiration date. Unless otherwise noted with a stamped expiration date, new unopened personal care products are good from 2 years to 3 years, depending on the product. New, unopened household products are good for at least 3 years.

I'm a diabetic. Will Shaklee products work for me?

Yes. Shaklee products can be used successfully by people with diabetes. However, diabetes is a medical condition. If you have diabetes or any other medical condition, you'll need to check with your doctor before beginning a nutritional supplementation program.

Shaklee will be happy to answer any technical questions about Shaklee products that arise in discussion with the doctor.

I've heard all vitamins are the same. Why should I choose Shaklee?

As we have all read, a number of random checks of various supplement manufacturers have found inconsistent levels of various nutrients.

In 50 years, Shaklee has never been implicated in any of these investigations, nor has Shaklee ever been required to implement a recall of a nutritional product although Shaklee has voluntary taken some products out of our line when raw materials failed to meet out stringent standards.

Shaklee guarantees that what is on the label is in our product. We also guarantee the purity and high quality of every ingredient in our product.

Shaklee is a name millions of people trust for safety and efficacy.

My doctor tells me not to take vitamins ... what should I do?

If you're being treated for a medical condition or disease, it is important to follow your physician's advice.

A large and growing number of clinical studies have made strong cases for the benefits of supplementation. Shaklee recommends a comprehensive approach to a healthy lifestyle that includes a varied diet, high in fiber and rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, and supplementation to support healthy functioning and help provide protection against chronic disease.

The AMA and its member physicians are now recognizing the value of regular supplementation and recommend them to their patients. If your doctor has a specific concern about how a Shaklee supplement would affect your medical care, they should contact Shaklee science by letter or by calling 925-924-200.

Are Shaklee products guaranteed?

Yes, unconditionally. If for any reason a Shaklee Product is not satisfactory, return it to your Shaklee Independent Distributor or Shaklee Corporation for exchange or full refund.

In addition to a 100% satisfaction or money-back guarantee, we offer:

• 100% guarantee that the ingredients listed on the label are in the product.
• 100% guarantee of quality-controlled product formulations that ensure product safety, purity, reliability, and product performance
• 100% guarantee that we use the finest quality ingredients available

Experience the Shaklee Difference for yourself. You deserve it!

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Questions About Ordering

How long does it take to get my Shaklee order?

Shaklee orders arrive within 5-8 calendar days of the date the order is placed.

What are Shaklee's shipping rates and policies?

All Shaklee orders are charged shipping and handling based on the total weight of the order, with a minimum of $6.50 per order for Standard Shipping. 

Standard Shipping is through UPS ground service to all destinations in the contiguous 48 states, and orders arrive within 5 – 8 calendar days of the date the order is placed.

How do I go about getting a refund?

If for any reason you are not satisfied with a Shaklee product, you may request an exchange or refund, under the 100% Shaklee Guarantee (AirSource® and BestWater® products are covered by their own special appliance warranties rather than by the standard Shaklee guarantee).

If you placed your order online or through 1-800-SHAKLEE, please call 1-800-SHAKLEE (1-800-742-5533), M-F, 6 am – 7 pm Pacific Time, to request a replacement or refund. If you purchased your order directly from a Shaklee Independent Distributor, please contact your Distributor to request a replacement or refund.

What is Shaklee's Privacy Policy?

Members have direct control over e-mail marketing messages that are sent by Shaklee. Your personal information is kept secure by Shaklee and is never sold or shared with third-party entities. Please read the Shaklee Privacy Policy for more info.

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Phone us direct if you have other questions: 1.866.242.2662