As always, this week's tool review on Google Checkout comes from Mike Mann's Web Development Best Practices. Check the archives for previous reviews and more insight on the web’s best tools for nonprofits.
What kind of tool is Google Checkout for Nonprofits?
Google Checkout for Nonprofits is a fast and convenient way to process online donations that helps you attract donors and increase online giving. Google Grants recipients are eligible to process donations using Google Checkout for free until 2011! Google Checkout users store debit/credit card information in their Google Account, so that they donate to nonprofits (and shop online!) at the click of a button. Google Checkout allows nonprofits to track the status of their donations and includes fraud protection as well.
How have we used Google Checkout at Grassroots.org?
If you visit our Donate page, you'll see that we use Google Checkout to collect online donations on our site. Since we also receive a Google Grant, our donations are processed for free.
How should nonprofits use Google Checkout?
Nonprofits should use Google Checkout in tandem with Google Grants (in-kind Google Adwords donations). After 10 business days of linking your Grants account with Checkout, you will receive an email confirming that your Checkout account has been approved for free transaction processing. Google Checkout accounts that are not linked to Google Grants will be subject to a low transaction fee.
How can my organization sign up for Google Checkout?
You can register by visiting this page. When signing up for an account, you will first be asked for your organization's basic information (contact, website, EIN). Then you will be required to identify your organization as an IRS Certified 501(c)3. Once your account is set up, you'll see an option for Checkout "Donation Buttons" under the Tools tab. Then you can place these donation buttons on your site and start receiving donations!
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