GoFundMe Created 1.4 Million Nonprofit Donation Pages Without Consent - What You Should Do About It

A Surprising Development

In October 2025, GoFundMe quietly generated 1.4 million donation pages for U.S. nonprofits, many without the nonprofits’ prior consent or knowledge.

These pages were automatically created using public IRS data and partnerships with third-party processors. While GoFundMe’s intention was to “make giving easier”, the result has left many nonprofits surprised and concerned.

First, GoFundMe’s intention with this move was never to ‘make giving easier”, but rather to A - get the transaction fees and “tips” from gifts on their platform, and B - to get donor data, if which the value is much higher than the fees and tips.

You might be asking, “Why all the fuss?”. Because donors searching for “Donate to [Your Nonprofit Name]” might now land on a GoFundMe page instead of your organization’s own website. And that means you may have a public-facing donation page you didn’t approve or control.

Why This Matters for Nonprofits

If your nonprofit has one of these auto-generated pages, it could affect your:

• Brand trust – Donors might think the GoFundMe page is your official donation link.

• Donor data access – You may not receive donor contact information for stewardship.

• Fees & tips – GoFundMe donations include both transaction fees and optional “tips” to the platform.

• Search visibility – These pages may outrank your own donation link in Google search results.

• Compliance – In some states, third-party fundraising without authorization may raise regulatory questions.

What You Should Do Right Now

Here’s how to protect your organization and take control:

1. Search for your nonprofit’s name on GoFundMe
   Use your name or EIN to see if a donation page exists.

2. Decide whether to claim, edit, or remove it
   If you find a page, you can “claim” it to manage branding and donor information, or you can request GoFundMe remove it altogether.

3. Communicate your official donation link
   Make sure your website, emails, and social posts clearly direct donors to your verified donation page.

4. Inform your team and board
   Brief your board or staff about the issue so everyone understands what’s happening and how you’re responding.

5. Monitor regularly
   Set a Google Alert for “[Your Nonprofit Name] GoFundMe” to catch any new pages or unauthorized listings in the future.

A Bigger Lesson for Nonprofits

This situation highlights an important truth: you must actively manage your organization’s digital presence.
Even well-meaning platforms can create confusion or risk if they operate without your direct input.

It’s essential to:

• Maintain a clear, consistent donation link you control.

• Periodically audit where and how your nonprofit’s name appears online.

• Communicate clearly with your donors about where to give safely and effectively.

Final Thoughts

Technology is changing how people give… but it’s also changing how nonprofits must protect their brand and donor relationships.
Take a few minutes this week to search for your organization on GoFundMe. Whether you choose to claim, customize, or remove your page, doing something ensures you stay in control.