Verified Circulation Guide

The classification of verified circulation became effective Jan. 1, 2006, and was reported on the ABC Publisher’s Statements for the first time in June 2006.

This guide is intended to explain and clarify the rules and guidelines governing copies classified as verified circulation on ABC documents. It includes definitions of the various types of verified circulation, the qualification and reporting requirements, and an overview of the records that should be maintained for an ABC auditor’s review.

This guide is not intended to be all-inclusive, but rather provides general guidance for verified circulation. The rules, policies and requirements identified and explained in this guide are those in effect as of Jan. 1, 2008, and forward. As new rules become effective, these requirements are subject to change. It is the publishers’ responsibility to ensure that their verified circulation initiatives comply with all ABC rules and guidelines in effect at the time they are executed. The most current rules and guidelines can be found on ABC's Web site.

Upon request, ABC’s Publisher Relations department provides a confidential review of members’ programs. To take advantage of this review or if you are developing an initiative that is not addressed in this guide, please contact your Publisher Relations manager.

No part of this guide may be reproduced without making this forward a part thereof and without the consent of the Audit Bureau of Circulations.

Updated 07/11/08