NIL glossary
What are royalties in NIL?
Royalties are ongoing payments based on sales or use of something, such as a share of every jersey, trading card or video game sold with an athlete's name or likeness.
On this page
In detail
Royalties are common in group licensing. For Division I athletes, NIL Go reporting applies to deals that could reach $600 through royalties, contingencies or bonuses, not just guaranteed payments. Oregon's 2022 law (SB 1505) requires royalties when a college athlete's NIL is used on team jerseys, trading cards or video games.
Frequently asked questions
Do royalties count toward NIL Go's $600 threshold?
Yes. Deals that could reach $600 through royalties, bonuses or contingencies must be reported.
Sources
- Frequently Asked Questions — College Sports Commission
- Oregon high school athletes may now benefit from name, image, likeness deals — OPB
This is general information, not legal advice. NIL rules differ by state, school, association and sport, and they change often. Check the official sources linked on this page and talk with your school's compliance office, your state association or a licensed attorney before you sign anything.