Side-by-Side Comparison
doTERRA vs Home Business Academy (HBA)
An honest comparison to help you choose the right opportunity
Feature Comparison
Monthly Minimum
100 LRP points (~$100-150/mo) required to earn
$10-160/month, no earning minimum
Winner
Commission Model
Multi-level unilevel with recruiting bonuses
80% commissions: $128/mo per full-suite customer
Winner
Business Model
MLM — unilevel with recruiting bonuses
One-tier affiliate — earn on direct referrals only
Winner
Comp Plan Stability
New comp plan launched 2023
Unchanged since 2016
Winner
Product Type
Essential oils (physical, perishable)
Digital training tools (no inventory)
Winner
Overall Rating
2.0/5
4.8/5
Winner
Detailed Breakdown
doTERRA
Pros
- World's largest essential oil company with strong brand recognition
- 17 years in business with no missed commission payments
- High-quality products with genuine consumer demand
- Passionate community of wellness advocates
Cons
- Low per-customer residual (~$4-6/mo at entry level)
- Complex multi-tier compensation structure with 7+ levels
- Compensation plan has been modified over the years
Home Business Academy (HBA)
Pros
- 80% commissions — you earn more than the company keeps
- Paid every Thursday without fail since 2016 (never missed a payment)
- One-tier model: income depends on YOU, not a downline
- Comp plan has never changed since 2016
Cons
- Must own a product to earn commission on it (qualified sale rule)
- Requires consistent marketing effort — not passive without work
Our Verdict
Winner: Home Business Academy (HBA)
4.8
doTERRA (founded 2008) has built a strong reputation for quality essential oils and a loyal customer base. The structural question is the 100 PV monthly autoship requirement ($100-150/mo) to earn commissions. HBA offers a one-tier model with 80% commissions and no mandatory autoship — a simpler path for those focused on residual income.
Ready to Get Started with Home Business Academy (HBA)?
Based on our analysis, Home Business Academy (HBA) offers the best opportunity for success.