GiveSafe is committed to transparency in its fee structure, ensuring that a significant portion of each donation directly benefits those in need. Our fees, starting at 25% and decreasing to as low as 10%, are allocated to cover essential operational costs, including payment processing fees, platform maintenance, and modest compensation for our dedicated volunteers. Even at 25% we still have a rating of "Good" and will only improve.

 

According to CharityWatch:

"Groups included on our Top-Rated list generally spend 75% or more of their cash budgets on programs; spend $25 or less to raise each $100 of cash support; do not hold excessive assets in reserve (equal to an adjusted 3 years or more of a charity's annual cash spending); and meet CharityWatch's governance & transparency benchmarks. Along with our "A+" to "F" ratings, CharityWatch also publishes lists of High Asset Charities & Top Compensation Packages of charity executives. Our ratings also include detailed notes compiled by our analysts during our charity evaluations to help donors stay informed by providing context and flagging issues of interest we identify during our rating process."

 

Breakdown of GiveSafe's Fees:

  1. Payment Processing: A portion of the fee is directed towards transaction costs. For instance, Stripe offers discounted rates for nonprofits, typically around 2.2% plus $0.30 per transaction. (Stripe Support)

 

  1. Platform Maintenance: Investing in the development and upkeep of our software platform ensures a seamless and secure experience for both donors and beneficiaries.
  1. Volunteer Support: While many contribute their time pro bono, some volunteers receive modest compensation to sustain their invaluable efforts.

Comparison with Other Charities:

Charity Comparisons

Image courtesy of Syracuse University

 

Administrative costs among charities vary widely. According to Charity Navigator, administrative costs below 15% are considered ideal, though this can vary by organization type. (LoveToKnow) Some charities allocate a higher percentage to administrative expenses, which can impact the funds available for direct aid.

 

By maintaining a fee structure that starts at 25% and aims to decrease to 10%, GiveSafe ensures that a substantial portion of each donation reaches those in need, aligning with or surpassing industry standards.

 

Our commitment to transparency means donors can trust that their contributions are utilized effectively, maximizing the positive impact on the communities we serve.