texttodonate

Texttodonate is a fundraising method that enables charitable donations via mobile text messaging. In a typical setup, a nonprofit provides a keyword and a short code or number. Donors text the keyword to the short code to initiate a donation of a predefined amount, which is billed to the donor’s mobile account or charged to a linked payment method. The transaction is processed by a combination of a fundraising platform, mobile network operator, and a payment processor, with funds then transferred to the nonprofit after processing fees.

How it works generally involves three main components: the nonprofit’s campaign configuration (keyword, short code, and amount), the mobile operator’s billing infrastructure, and the payment gateway that handles settlement and receipts. After a donor texts the keyword, the system may require a confirmation or consent before the charge is finalized. Donors typically receive a confirmation receipt via SMS, and the nonprofit receives the funds on a regular schedule, less platform and carrier fees.

Advantages of text-to-donate include simplicity, accessibility for people without bank accounts or credit cards, and the ability to solicit micro-donations quickly during events or emergencies. It can achieve broad reach and rapid fundraising momentum, especially in crisis situations or live campaigns.

Limitations and considerations include dependency on mobile carrier infrastructure, the potential for accidental charges or opt-out issues, and relatively high processing fees that can reduce the net amount for the nonprofit. There are also privacy, consent, and regulatory requirements to ensure transparent and compliant handling of donor data and funds.