Google’s AdSense is known as one of the best CPC (cost per click) advertising programs on the web. AdSense’s love-child, AdSense Referrals, uses a strictly CPA (cost per action) technique to drive users to Google products. How can AdSense Referrals be used, and more importantly — will you make money with them?

First, let’s take a look at the different referral formats you have to choose from: text links, or a variety of 110×32, 120×60, 180×60, 468×60, 125×125, and 120×240 pixel banners. At one point, you were given a referral URL similar to Text-Link-Ads with which you could manipulate and do whatever you want with. Google quickly realized the potential for abuse with this — now they use a Javascript code to deliver the ad (not unlike AdSense for Content).

Making money with AdSense Referrals is not as easy as you would hope. Your referral choices are limited to AdSense, AdWords, Firefox, or Google Pack. To make money, a person must click the ad and signup for the service, usually with a catch.

I’ve had the most luck with Firefox referrals. When a user downloads and installs Firefox through your referral, you are credited $1.00 USD. Even if you are able to generate some downloads, Firefox referrals probably wont make you rich. You can also refer people to Google Pack and earn $2 per download.

Referring a publisher to Google AdSense will make you the most money. When a user you referred makes their first $100, you will be credited with $100.00. You can make money with AdWords referrals too, but not as much. When a user signs up for Google AdWords through your referral and spends their first $100.00 in advertising, you earn $20.00.

The best way to use referrals is supplementary. Place them with your affiliate links (sidebars are perfect).