FAQ
What is Codeback?
Codeback is an ad marketplace built into AI coding tools like VS Code, Cursor, Claude Code, Windsurf and Zed. While the AI is reasoning, a single tasteful sponsored line replaces the editor’s idle “thinking” status spinner. Advertisers pay to show it, and developers earn a share of that revenue.
Will it clutter my editor?
No. It’s just one short line, shown in the spot where your editor already displays an idle “thinking” status. There are no popups, images, or animations — and it’s always clearly labelled as sponsored.
Which tools does Codeback support?
Codeback works inside popular AI coding environments including VS Code, Cursor, Claude Code, Windsurf and Zed, with more on the way.
How and when do I get paid as a developer?
You earn a 65% revenue share of what advertisers pay for impressions and clicks served in your environment. Your balance settles in real time, and payouts go out weekly via Stripe once your balance is above the $10 minimum.
Can I turn the sponsored line off?
Yes. There’s a kill switch in your settings — you can disable sponsored lines at any time, no questions asked.
Do I owe taxes on what I earn?
Yes. Codeback doesn’t withhold taxes, so you’re responsible for declaring and paying any income tax on your earnings according to the rules where you live.
As an advertiser, how do bidding and blocks work?
You buy blocks — one block is 1,000 five-second impressions. Placements run through an ascending-bid auction, so the highest bid serves first. Clicks are billed at roughly 50× the price of an impression.
What kinds of ads are allowed?
Ads must be a single honest line that links to a matching landing page, and they must follow our Advertising Policy. Things like malware, adult content, scams, misleading claims, and IP infringement are not allowed, and campaigns can be reviewed, paused, or rejected at any time.
Will I get an invoice?
Yes. Payments are handled by Lemon Squeezy as the merchant of record. Lemon Squeezy handles VAT and sales tax worldwide and emails you the official invoice/receipt automatically. Codeback never stores your card details.
How fast does my campaign go live?
Most campaigns start serving quickly once submitted, subject to review. How much volume you get depends on your bid, targeting, and available inventory — there’s no guaranteed delivery.