Getting Started with Fee Coverage: A Complete Guide
Fee coverage can significantly increase your net donations. This guide covers best practices for implementing fee coverage on your donation forms.
When donors choose to cover processing fees, nonprofits receive 100% of the intended donation amount. Studies show that 70-82% of donors will opt in when given the choice - but presentation matters.
Why Fee Coverage Works
Most donors understand that payment processing has costs. When you give them the option to cover these fees, you're empowering them to make their gift go further. The key is transparency and framing.
Best Practices for Implementation
1. Pre-check the option by default. Research consistently shows higher opt-in rates when fee coverage is pre-selected. This isn't deceptive - it's simply making the generous choice the easy choice.
2. Show the math clearly. Display both the original amount and the total with fees so donors understand exactly what they're contributing.
3. Use positive framing. Instead of "Cover processing fees," try "Cover fees so 100% of your gift supports our mission."
engaij.ai donation forms include fee coverage with a pre-checked checkbox by default, resulting in an average 75% opt-in rate across our platform.
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