Is “Free” Really Free?
You’ve seen it before:
“$0 platform fees!”
Sounds amazing, right?
But if you’re leading a church or nonprofit, here’s the truth: Free doesn’t always mean free.
Sometimes, it means donors pay more, or you end up stuck with hidden fees.
Let’s break it down—simple, honest, and church-friendly.
What “$0 Platform Fees” Really Means (Spoiler: It’s Not Free)
Many platforms say they don’t charge you. But they still make money. Here’s how:
1. They Ask Donors to Tip
Platforms like Givebutter let donors add a “tip” when they give.
That tip goes to the platform, not to your church.
It sounds nice. But it can feel weird for donors. Some feel tricked.
2. You Pay for Features Later
Basic tools are free.
But if you want recurring giving, text messages, or donor reports?
That’s behind a paywall. You’ll need to pay to grow.
3. Extra Fees Add Up
Even if platform fees are $0, Credit card and ACH fees are still there. Some setup charge. Some charge per text. It adds up fast.
2025 Giving Platform Comparison: What You’re Paying For
| Platform | Platform Fees | Processing Fees | Other Costs | Faith-Friendly |
| Givebutter | 0% w/ tips or 1–5% | 2.9%+30¢ (card), 1.9%+30¢ (ACH) | Plus plan adds tools | ❌ |
| Classy / GoFundMe Pro | 3% optional or 4% plan | 2.4%+30¢ to 3.2%+ fees | $299/mo Pro Plan | ❌ |
| Text-to-Give | Varies | Varies | ~$10/mo + $20/1k texts | Depends |
| GiveCentral | Flat pricing | ~3.45%+50¢ (card), ~0.4%+50¢ (ACH) | $10/mo + $20/1k texts | ✅ |
Note: “$0” platforms often push fees to your donors or require expensive upgrades.
What Churches Need (Not Just Fancy Tech)
You’re not running a startup.
You’re serving people.
Here’s what matters:
- Easy Recurring Giving – set it and forget it
- Clear, Honest Fees – no surprises
- Real Support – not just chatbots or long email waits
- Faith-Based Messaging – that feels like you, not a generic app
Your giving platform should serve your mission, not the other way around.
Why GiveCentral Works for Churches
GiveCentral isn’t “free.”
But it’s better than “free with strings.”
- No tipping boxes for your donors
- Simple pricing that’s easy to explain
- Text, mobile, web—all made for churches
- Real humans to help when you need it
It’s not about tricks. It’s about trust.
Ask These 3 Questions Before You Pick a Platform
- Will this feel like a donation—or a transaction—to my givers?
- Is this built to help us grow in the long term, or just collect payments?
- Does this tool reflect our values, or feel like another business app?
Final Word: Free Isn’t Worth Losing Trust
A platform that says “free” but tricks your donors?
That costs too much.
A tool that hides fees or locks key features?
Still too expensive.
You deserve better.
- Choose clarity, not confusion.
- Choose stewardship, not surprises.
- Select a platform that aligns with your mission honestly and transparently.
Want help comparing? Download our free Platform Checklist to pick the right one for your church.
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Last modified: June 27, 2025
