Circle of Trust™ Partner Levels & Benefits — Agreement-Aligned FAQ

This FAQ is provided for convenience only and is intended to be read in conjunction with the Circle of Trust™ Partner Agreement (“Agreement”). In the event of any inconsistency, the Agreement controls.

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What Partner Levels are recognized by the Circle of Trust™? #

The Circle of Trust™ recognizes the following Partner Levels:

• Basic Partner
• Gold Partner

All Partners are initially designated as Basic Partners upon acceptance into the Circle of Trust™.

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What qualifies a Partner for Basic Partner status? #

Basic Partner status is granted upon approval of a Partner’s application and completion of required verification.

Basic Partner Criteria:

• Acceptance into the Circle of Trust™ pursuant to the Agreement
• Maintenance of an active professional license or active business registration, as applicable
• Completion and approval of credential verification
• Ongoing compliance with the Agreement, policies, and standards of the Circle of Trust™
• Maintenance of good professional standing

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What benefits are associated with Basic Partner status? #

Subject to continued eligibility and compliance with the Agreement, Basic Partners may be eligible for the following:

Basic Partner Benefits:

• Authorized use of the Circle of Trust™ credential badge, as permitted
• Standard listing in the Circle of Trust™ directory
• Access to partner events, trainings, and professional development resources
• Eligibility to participate in Circle of Trust™ programs, where applicable
• Participation in forums, discussions, or community initiatives

All benefits are non-exclusive, non-transferable, and subject to modification or discontinuation at the sole discretion of the Circle of Trust™.

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What qualifies a Partner for Gold Partner status? #

Gold Partner status is an earned designation and is not automatic.

Gold Partner Eligibility Criteria:

• A minimum of one (1) year of active participation as a Partner
• Continued maintenance of credentials in good standing
• Demonstrated participation in Circle of Trust™ programs, events, or initiatives
• Eligibility for and participation in Home360 / Auto360 programs, where applicable
• Ongoing compliance with the Agreement and Circle of Trust™ standards

Satisfaction of eligibility criteria does not guarantee advancement.

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What benefits are associated with Gold Partner status? #

Subject to approval and continued compliance, Gold Partners may be eligible for enhanced opportunities, which may include:

Gold Partner Benefits:

• Access to Home360 and Auto360 programs
• Enhanced or priority directory visibility
• Consideration for marketing, media, or promotional features
• Eligibility for video, podcast, or content participation
• Priority consideration for panels, events, or leadership opportunities

Availability of benefits may vary and is not guaranteed.

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How does advancement from Basic Partner to Gold Partner occur? #

Advancement to Gold Partner status may occur through one or more of the following, subject to review:

• Submission of a request for advancement by the Partner
• Nomination or invitation by the Circle of Trust™
• Periodic internal review of Partner participation and eligibility

All advancement determinations are made at the sole discretion of the Circle of Trust™.

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Is advancement to Gold Partner guaranteed after one year? #

No. Time in the network alone does not guarantee advancement. Gold Partner status is awarded based on eligibility, participation in programs, and overall alignment with Circle of Trust™ standards.

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Can Partner status or level be changed? #

Yes. Partner status and level may be modified, suspended, or revoked in accordance with the Agreement, including but not limited to circumstances where:

• Participation in Circle of Trust™ programs materially decreases
• Credentials lapse, expire, or become invalid
• The Partner fails to comply with Circle of Trust™ standards or policies
• Partner conduct is inconsistent with the mission or expectations of the Circle of Trust™

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Are Partner benefits guaranteed or contractual? #

No. Partner benefits do not constitute a guarantee of business opportunities, revenue, or promotional exposure and do not create any contractual entitlement beyond what is expressly stated in the Agreement.

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Legal & Relationship Disclaimer #

Participation in the Circle of Trust™ does not create an agency, partnership, joint venture, or employment relationship. All Partners operate as independent businesses and remain solely responsible for their services, compliance, and professional conduct, as set forth in the Agreement.