Direct Answer
A 100% donation policy describes how an organisation allocates a particular donation; it does not mean that running or delivering its work has no cost. Check what the promise includes, how other costs are funded and whether results are evidenced. WAN does not claim a 100% donation policy. Compare purpose, costs and outcomes together.
What a 100% policy can mean
An organisation may allocate the whole of a particular gift to its programme while paying fundraising, administration or delivery costs from another source. Ask which costs are counted within the programme and which income pays the rest. The meaning depends on the organisation’s published policy.
A label alone cannot show the quality of care, the usefulness of a relief delivery or whether the organisation achieves its purpose.
Check the evidence behind the comparison
Read the latest available accounts, the reporting period and the accounting notes. Organisations with different activities may classify costs differently. A research charity, a clinical fund and a disaster-response organisation cannot be fairly ranked by one percentage alone.
Look for an explanation of results, limits and how they were measured. A stated target is not a completed result; a low cost can also reflect a narrower service.
A practical guide to choosing a charityGive to eye surgery, cancer treatment or disaster relief
Eye surgery and cancer treatment for patients who cannot pay, and relief after disasters, in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Give once or monthly by card.
DonatePlatform fees and processing fees are different
Check the platform’s current fee schedule for the country, service and payment method you will use. A platform fee, payment processing fee, optional donor tip and Gift Aid administration charge are different charges. Do not add or compare them without understanding the product.
For example, JustGiving’s UK fees page currently distinguishes charity fundraising, personal crowdfunding and Giving Checkout. It lists a £0 platform fee for UK charity fundraising and a processing charge for standard methods. Follow its current published schedule for the exact figures and exceptions; a direct charity checkout is not automatically cheaper.
How WAN describes donation costs
WAN does not claim a 100% donation policy. Read the allocation terms and current reporting status before giving. Suggested amounts are contributions, not guaranteed treatment prices or a count of people helped.
Where your money goes and how estimates workGift Aid is a separate eligibility question
An eligible donation to an HMRC-recognised organisation can qualify for a top-up when the donor meets the tax and declaration conditions. It does not erase operational costs or establish impact. Gift Aid is not currently available at WAN.
Check Gift Aid availability and requirementsChoose based on the work you want to support
Decide whether your priority is research, practical support, treatment access or emergency essentials. Check who receives funds, how restrictions work and what reporting is available. Give an amount you can afford and keep your confirmation.
Compare ways to giveKey takeaways
- A 100% donation policy describes how an organisation allocates a particular donation; it does not mean that running or delivering its work has no cost. Check what the promise includes, how other costs are funded and whether results are evidenced. WAN does not claim a 100% donation policy. Compare purpose, costs and outcomes together.
Give to eye surgery, cancer treatment or disaster relief
Eye surgery and cancer treatment for patients who cannot pay, and relief after disasters, in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Give once or monthly by card.
Frequently asked questions
Does 100% mean the charity has no overheads?
No. Staff, systems, safeguarding, reporting and delivery still require resources. The policy should explain which income funds them.
Is the lowest overhead ratio always best?
No. Activities and cost classifications differ. Assess the purpose, service quality, evidence and financial reporting together.
Does JustGiving always charge a UK platform fee?
No. Its current UK fee page lists a £0 platform fee for charity fundraising, with separate processing charges and product-specific exceptions. Check the official schedule for your route.
Does WAN offer a 100% donation policy?
No. Check our funding terms and reporting status. Suggested gift amounts do not guarantee an operation or relief package.
Published by World Aid Network. Check the original sources and their dates. General information is not individual medical, legal or tax advice. Our editorial policy explains responsibility and corrections.
What are the sources for this guide?
Follow the original guidance for its evidence, dates and limitations. Background references explain the need; they are not evidence of WAN fundraising or delivery.