When I started blogging, I put up a “donation” page. I did because I had seen them on many of the blogs I frequented.

Although I still have mixed feelings about donations on blogs. my “donate” page sits quietly in my header.

Close to my one year anniversary of blogging, I received my first donation, which, in turn, inspired this post topic.

Today’s Lesson

As bloggers hop from site to site, changing themes, and/or adding plugins, we often encounter a donate button with a short quote stating “Please feel free to donate if you enjoyed this…”

Although most bloggers start blogging not expecting donations, the subject of donations usually surfaces, and can initiate an internal conversation.

This subject of donations may fall into one of the following arguments:

1) Some will argue that no one else charges for information on the internet, so if you don’t want to give it for free, then put it in the form of a book (or e-book).

2) Many bloggers happily share all they have learned with others in hopes it changes a life (or two), and a simple thank you is sufficient.

3) Some may resist adding a donate button, thinking it looks like they are being greedy, it goes against why they started blogging, or it contradicts the message of their blog.

4) Blogs are often an extension/addition to a business website, and the author’s goal is to promote their business. A donation button may cheapen the entire site, and take away from the professionalism of the business.

5) If a blogger is seeing revenues from the monetization of their blog(s), donations may not interest them.

6) Some blog authors will tap into all income streams and aggressively promote donating.

Is there one right answer? Probably not.

For those who want to add a “donate” page, it’s actually quite easy.

I first created a new page and named it “Donate” (or use a page title that suits you).

I then set up a business account with PayPal,so I can receive credit card payments.

Paypal will supply you with the necessary code to insert into your page.

After you have inserted the code and saved/published it, test the donate button. If you’re not seeing the correct output, check to make sure the code was entered properly You may have to reenter it.

When donations are received, they are automatically transferred into your PayPal account, and from there can be transferred to your preferred bank account. PayPal will also send you an email notifying you of the donation.

Adding the code and a message to your sidebar can be done by modifying your sidebar php. file(s)

A plugin, by the name of “Buy Me A Beer” (which also has a “coffee cup” option), is another option. It will need to be linked to your chosen collection service (PayPal,, or other).

For those who want to accept checks or money orders, a valid address will need to be posted.

Personally, I don’t expect my readers to donate. Nor do I want them to feel guilty if they don’t. I freely share with others what I have learned. If someone is moved to donate, I am forever grateful.

Today’s Assignment

What are your thoughts on donations?

Do you currently use a donate button, or are you thinking of adding one?

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Thank you Sherief Mursyidi for the “Buy Me A Beer” plugin.
Photo Credit: zzzack’s photostream