FAQs

Last Revised: November 23, 2023

1. What is Purpose and how does it differ from other crowdfunding platforms?

Purpose is a crowdfunding app dedicated to supporting verified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits. Unlike other platforms, Purpose offers curated donation opportunities, enabling users to donate as a one-off or through setting up recurring donations, and facilitates direct communication with nonprofits. We empower nonprofits to bring and communicate impact to their donors.

2. How do I know the nonprofits on Purpose are legitimate?

We rigorously verify each nonprofit to ensure they are registered 501(c)(3) organizations. This process includes reviewing their tax-exempt status and evaluating their impact and transparency.

3. Can I set up a recurring donation?

Yes, Purpose allows you to set up recurring donations of your choice. You can choose your preferred frequency and amount, providing ongoing support to your chosen cause.

4. Are my donations through Purpose tax-deductible?

Yes, since all donations are made to 501(c)(3) nonprofits, they are typically tax-deductible. You will receive donation receipts for your records through our payment provider, PayPal, and nonprofits will issue donation letters to their donors in the end of the financial year.

5. How do I track and manage my donations on Purpose?

The app includes a feature to track and manage your donations. You can view your donation history, manage recurring donations, and make changes to your recurring donations by accessing your Account.

6. Can I communicate directly with the nonprofits I donate to?

Absolutely! Purpose offers a unique inbox feature that allows you to directly interact with the nonprofits that you follow and/or donated to. This fosters transparency and a personal connection with the causes you support.

7. What kind of reports can I expect after making a donation?

Nonprofits may provide evidence-supported impact updates to their donors through their nonprofit accounts and messages sent regularly. These updates and reports to detail how your contributions are making a difference.

8. Is the Purpose app secure for making donations?

The security of your financial information is our top priority. Purpose is not a payment processor, all transactions are made directly by truster payment processor, PayPal.

9. How can I get involved beyond donating?

In addition to donating, you can share fundraisers with your network, engage with nonprofit stories on the app, and sometimes volunteer opportunities are posted by nonprofits.

10. How can I request a refund for my donation?

Donors can request a refund within a certain time frame after making a donation. Please contact a nonprofit you donated to with your donation details to initiate the refund process. Note that refunds are subject to review and may depend on the nonprofit's policies.

11. Can I cancel a recurring donation? How?

Yes, you can cancel your recurring donation at any time. To do so, go to the 'Manage Donations' section in the app, login to your PayPal account and select the recurring donation you wish to cancel, and follow the prompts to stop future payments.

12. How do I manage my payment method, like PayPal, in the app?

To manage your PayPal or other payment methods, navigate to the 'Payment Settings' in your app profile. Here, you can link, update, or remove your PayPal account or other payment options.

13. Is Purpose App free for donors?

Yes, Purpose is 100% free for donors. At Purpose, we ensure your generosity makes a direct impact. Your donations directly benefit 501(c)(3) qualified nonprofit organizations, which are typically tax-deductible in the US. We want to be transparent: while Purpose doesn't charge any fees to donors, there are processing fees from PayPal. Rest assured, these fees go directly to PayPal, and every dollar of your donation supports the causes you care about.

14. What is the commission fee for PayPal transactions for nonprofits?

PayPal typically charges a processing fee for each transaction. For registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, PayPal offers a reduced fee. The exact percentage varies, so we recommend checking PayPal's current rates for nonprofits.