How secure is my donation?
All donations from individuals are processed through Stripe and security systems are in place.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Your donation to a US-Based 501(c)3 charitable organization through goodcircle is 100% tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Goodcircle provides an electronic receipt on behalf of the non-profit beneficiary of the project at the time of the donation. The receipt you get via email shortly after you complete your donations meets all IRS requirements as a record of donation. If you are asked to provide a paper receipt for IRS purposes, please print out a copy of your email receipt.
How much of funds raised go to the non-profit?
In 95% of the cases, all funds raised go to the nonprofit. Donors have the opportunity to cover fees when making their donation, and 95% of donors do.
Goodcircle offers a flexible crowdfunding model, meaning if the project’s goals are not fully met, the nonprofit still receives the funds raised, minus goodcircle fees.
How does goodcircle make money?
goodcircle is a for-profit company that makes money by adding a commission on all funds raised. Goodcircle fees vary by size and length of time of project. Contact us at hello@goodcircle.org to create a plan for your project.
How does goodcircle spread the word?
An additional advantage of harnessing the power of businesses, non-profits and individuals is the collective energy of their combined social networks in spreading the word. goodcircle provides the messaging content, the businesses and NPOs just have to send it out. So the word gets out quickly and to more people than if either party did it on their own.
What if the project can’t raise all of the funds? Where does my money go? Do I get my money back?
Most goodcircle projects are created with levels of achievement so that even if all funds are not raised a significant and complete part of the project can be fulfilled. goodcircle will inform all donors about how the funds raised will be used if that amount is less than the original goal.
How can I join goodcircle?
When you find a project you like and decide to participate, either through making a donation or just spreading the word, you automatically become a part of goodcircle. Or you can just decide to join goodcircle as a member (it costs nothing.)
How can I have impact other than by donating to a project?
You can spread the word either through Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or any other of your favorite social media. Or through word of mouth…. or however you choose to let the world know what kind of good you are up to.
What are your criteria for “good” businesses?
We partner with businesses that walk the walk. Our first criterion is that they give back to their immediate communities, the places where they do business. We care about how they treat their employees, how transparent their business dealings are and where and how they manufacture their goods. Certain categories are not included at all such as firearms, or pornography.
What are your criteria for NPOs?
All NPO’s must have an up-to-date 501(c )3 registration and a current 990 financial filing. In addition, we require a clearly articulated mission, community engagement and a demonstrable spirit of collaboration. All NPO’s must have a functional website, an active database and an activated Facebook page. We strive to affiliate with organizations that have dynamic leadership, and full board participation.