Introduction to Collecting Money Online

Digital platforms have revolutionized how we raise funds. Whether you are collecting for a colleague’s leaving gift, organising a stag do, or raising money for a local charity, money collection is now a key aspect of these activities, making the process simple and efficient compared to the days of passing around a physical envelope. With digital platforms like Potje and GoFundMe, there's no need to visit a cash machine or handle physical cash, making contributions even more convenient.

With the rise of digital payment methods, two names often come up: Potje and GoFundMe. While both allow you to collect money online, they serve very different purposes. One is designed for the public world of crowdfunding, while the other is built specifically for private groups. GoFundMe lacks the specialized features for group collections that Potje offers, such as automated payment requests. A collection pot, also known as a money pool, is commonly used for group contributions, making it easy for multiple people to donate towards a shared goal.

Understanding the difference—and the fees involved—can save you money and hassle. This guide compares Potje and GoFundMe, as well as other platforms, to help you decide which platform fits your needs, noting that each has unique features and fee structures.

Understanding Collection Options

When you want to collect money online—whether it’s for a birthday gift, a charity fundraiser, or a group holiday—there are more ways than ever to raise money quickly and securely. A collection pot is a tried-and-true method for pooling funds from friends, family, and colleagues, but with so many platforms available, it’s important to understand your options before you start collecting.

One of the first things to consider is the payment processing fee. Many platforms charge a small percentage per transaction, typically ranging from 1.9% + 20p to 2.9% + 25p. These fees can add up, especially for larger group collections. Some platforms, like Collection Pot, keep these fees low and even allow contributors to add an optional tip or voluntary top-up to help cover costs and support ongoing platform improvements. Others, such as Collctiv, offer a completely free service for personal fundraising, relying on optional tips rather than mandatory fees.

If you’re raising money for a chosen charity, Gift Aid can make a big difference. Platforms that process Gift Aid without charging extra fees ensure that all the money raised—including that valuable Gift Aid—goes directly to the charity. This is especially important for individual fundraising efforts and personal causes where every penny counts.

A hassle free, user-friendly platform can make the process of collecting money much more enjoyable. Many platforms now offer features like QR codes, payment links, and easy social media sharing, making it simple for supporters to contribute—no need to carry cash or chase people down. The best platforms make it fun and straightforward to create a collection pot, invite friends or colleagues, and track the money raised. Don’t forget to share your collection on internal platforms or with all group members to maximize participation.

Beyond traditional collection pots, there are plenty of alternatives. Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe, JustGiving, and Crowdfunder are popular for larger campaigns and public fundraising, while equity crowdfunding sites such as SeedInvest and MicroVentures are ideal for businesses and startups looking to raise funds from investors. Each platform comes with its own set of features, fees, and suitability for different types of fundraising.

Transparency and security are also key. You want to be sure that all the money collected is going to the right place, and that generous donations are handled securely. Platforms like Collection Pot and Collctiv are known for their commitment to transparency, giving donors peace of mind that their contributions are being used as intended.

In summary, understanding your collection options is essential for successful fundraising. By comparing fees, Gift Aid policies, and user experience across many platforms, you can choose the best way to collect money online for your next group gift, charity fundraiser, or personal cause. With the right platform, you can focus on the fun of giving and supporting others—without worrying about hidden fees or complicated processes.

GoFundMe: The Public Crowdfunding Giant

GoFundMe is a household name, widely used for launching public fundraisers. It is a powerful tool if you need to reach strangers to support a cause, such as medical expenses, disaster relief, large-scale charity donations, fundraising for charities, or specific causes like cancer research.

How it works: You create a campaign page, add a video or photo story, and share the link on social media to attract donors from around the world. GoFundMe campaigns can be focused on a good cause, and most people are motivated to contribute when the aim is clear.

The Fees: While creating a campaign is free, GoFundMe is not free to use. They charge a transaction fee of 2.9% + £0.25 (in the UK) or 2.9% + €0.25 (in Europe) per donation. For a private collection among friends, these fees effectively mean you are paying to access your own money. Both Collection Pot and GoFundMe allow users to withdraw funds once the collection is complete, but GoFundMe allows for adjustments to the fundraising goal. Recurring payments are available for ongoing support of a fund or charity.

Best for:

• Public charity campaigns.

• Medical emergencies or crisis relief.

• Reaching a wide audience of strangers.

• Supporting a company initiative or business—GoFundMe is suitable for both personal and company campaigns.

While GoFundMe makes contributing easy and helps you fund a good cause, successful fundraising still requires hard work and dedication. What really matters is choosing the right platform for your needs.

Potje: The Specialist for Private Groups

Potje is not a crowdfunding platform; it is a digital money pot designed for groups who know each other. It is built for friends, families, and colleagues who need a simple way to pool funds for a shared goal without the complexity or fees of a public campaign.

How it works: You create a “Pot” for a specific purpose—like a Gift Pot for a birthday or a Holiday Pot for a group trip. You invite your group via a private link, and they contribute directly via the app. Contributing is simple and does not require each participant to create an account. Potje can also be used for collections directed toward a single person, such as a colleague or friend. Potje also offers features like e-cards and varied spending options tailored for group collections.

The Potje Difference:

• Completely Free: Unlike GoFundMe, Potje is a free platform with no payment processing fees for standard collections. Every penny you collect goes towards the gift or the trip.

• Private & Secure: There is no public “campaign page.” It is a secure, closed loop for your group.

• Money Boss: The organiser acts as the “Money Boss,” with full transparency on who has contributed, making it perfect for tracking shared holiday costs.

• Personally Managed: The organizer can personally manage the collection and withdraw the funds directly to their bank account once everyone has donated.

• Regulated: Potje operates under the supervision of the Dutch Central Bank, adhering to European financial legislation, ensuring the highest standards of security and compliance.

• Specialized Features: Potje is specialized for group savings and collections with features like automatic reminders and privacy options.

Comparison: Which Should You Choose?

To make the right choice, you simply need to ask: Who is donating?

Scenario A: You are collecting for a colleague’s wedding gift.

• GoFundMe: You would pay fees on every donation. If 20 colleagues donate £20 each, you lose a chunk of the gift money to transaction costs. GoFundMe also allows fundraisers to set a goal for how much they want to raise and adjust it later if needed.

• Potje: Contributing is quick and hassle-free—colleagues can easily contribute by clicking a payment link or scanning a QR code. Once everyone has donated, the organizer can withdraw the funds directly to their bank account. The interface is designed for gifting, allowing you to digitally “wrap” the pot.

• Winner:Potje

Scenario B: You are raising money for a local animal shelter.

• GoFundMe: The platform’s ability to go viral on social media is essential here. Strangers are more likely to trust a verified GoFundMe campaign.

• Potje: Contributing to a Potje is straightforward, and all money donated is available for withdrawal by the organizer. While you can use Potje for charity, it works best if you are collecting from a known network (e.g., a sports team collecting for a local cause).

• **Winner:**GoFundMe (for reach), Potje (for 0% fees).

Security and Privacy

When collecting money online, security is paramount.

Potje prioritises privacy for private groups. As a Dutch fintech operating under strict European financial regulations, it ensures that your funds are held securely without the need to expose your financial details to the public internet.

For private collections, GoFundMe can feel intrusive, requiring public storytelling and updates. Potje keeps it simple: invite, collect, spend. Additionally, Potje allows users to hide transaction amounts from group members for privacy.

Best Practices for Online Collections

Collecting money online can be simple and rewarding when you follow a few proven strategies. Whether you’re looking to raise money for a charity, a personal cause, or a group gift, these best practices will help you make the most of your collection and ensure all the money raised goes exactly where it’s needed.

• Choose a user-friendly platform: Start with a platform that’s easy to navigate for both you and your donors. A user friendly platform reduces confusion and makes it more likely that people will contribute. Look for features like a clear payment link, QR code options, and a hassle free setup process.

• Set a clear goal: Define exactly what you’re raising funds for—whether it’s a special gift, a charity, or a personal milestone. A focused aim helps donors understand the impact of their generous donations and motivates them to give.

• Tell your story: Share a compelling story or even a short video to explain why the collection matters. Personal stories connect with donors and can inspire more generous donations. Don’t be afraid to get creative—videos and heartfelt messages go a long way.

• Make donating easy: The easier it is to donate, the more likely people are to contribute. Use a payment link or QR code so donors can give in just a few clicks, without needing to create an account or fill out lengthy forms.

• Offer flexible payment options: Cater to everyone by allowing multiple ways to pay—credit card, PayPal, or direct bank transfer. The more options you provide, the more inclusive your collection will be.

• Keep fees low: Opt for platforms that are completely free or have minimal fees, so all the money raised goes to your chosen cause. Some platforms even let you create unlimited collection pots with no extra charges.

• Be transparent: Let donors know how the funds will be used and keep them updated on the progress. Regular updates build trust and keep supporters engaged throughout the process.

• Show appreciation: Thank your donors with personalized messages, videos, or shout-outs on social media. A little gratitude goes a long way and encourages future support.

• Follow up and update: Send reminders and progress updates to keep your collection top of mind. This can help boost contributions and keep donors in the loop.

• Leverage social media: Share your collection on social media to reach a wider audience and keep the momentum going. Engaging posts and updates can help your collection go further.

• Consider recurring payments: For ongoing causes, offer the option for donors to set up recurring payments. This provides steady funding and makes it easy for supporters to contribute regularly.

• Keep it hassle free: Choose a platform that minimizes admin work and makes it easy to withdraw the funds when you’re ready. The less time you spend on logistics, the more you can focus on your cause.

By following these tips, you’ll create a smooth, enjoyable experience for both you and your donors. Whether you’re collecting for a charity, a personal milestone, or a group gift, the right approach—and the right platform—can help you raise funds efficiently, maximize the money raised, and make a real difference.

Conclusion

If you need to raise money from the general public for a crisis or a cause, GoFundMe is the industry leader for a reason. It is favored for personal and nonprofit fundraisers due to its low fees and high success rate for urgent needs.

However, for private group collections—birthdays, holidays, farewell gifts, or team budgets—GoFundMe is the wrong tool for the job. It is too expensive and too public.

Potje offers a specialised, fee-free solution that puts the "fun" back into funding. It allows you to focus on the occasion rather than the administration. Collection Pot aims to make group collections fun, simple, and secure, focusing on customer service and feedback.

Stop paying fees on your friends' money. Download Potje today and create your first free money pot.