Ko-fi is a creator page where fans can leave a one-time tip, join a monthly membership, buy from your shop or order a commission. It started in the UK in 2012 and is known for taking 0% of one-time tips on its free plan. Other income carries a 5% fee unless you pay for Ko-fi Gold. Payments go to your own PayPal or Stripe account, so money arrives straight away.
At a glance
| What it is | Creator support page with a shop |
| Ways to earn | Tips, memberships, shop sales, commissions |
| Free plan | 0% on one-time tips; 5% on other income |
| Ko-fi Gold | About $12 a month for new creators, 0% on everything |
| Payments | Your own PayPal or Stripe |
| Payouts | Instant through your processor |
| Founded | 2012, UK |
How it works
You create a free Ko-fi page and connect PayPal or Stripe. Supporters can tip without an account, choose a membership tier or buy items from your shop: digital downloads, physical goods or custom commissions. You can post updates, lock posts for members and add a Ko-fi button to your website or link in bio.
The fees in plain terms
One-time tips carry no Ko-fi fee on the free plan. Shop sales, memberships, monthly tips and commissions carry 5%. Ko-fi Gold removes all Ko-fi fees and adds extras such as a custom domain and analytics. Payment processing fees always apply.
When Gold pays off
Gold costs a fixed monthly fee, so it pays off once 5% of your shop and membership income exceeds that fee, roughly $240 a month in sales at the current price.
What you can realistically earn
Ko-fi does not bring traffic. Most income comes from fans who already follow your work elsewhere, such as artists, writers, streamers and developers.
Getting started
Set up your page, add a short description and one or two shop items, and link it everywhere you post. Offer a small, clear reward for members so the monthly option feels worth it.
Common mistakes
Some creators set up a page and never mention it, then wonder why no one supports them. Others offer memberships with vague rewards that give fans no reason to stay. A third mistake is paying for Gold before sales justify it.
Combining income
Ko-fi works well as a single page for several income streams. Many creators use tips for casual fans, memberships for regular supporters, commissions for custom work and a shop for downloads such as brushes, patterns or guides.
Keeping track
Ko-fi shows tips, memberships and shop sales on your dashboard. Watch which posts bring supporters, and thank them publicly where it fits.
Final tip
Mention your Ko-fi page at the end of your best-performing content. Fans are most likely to support you right after you have helped or entertained them.
Is it worth it?
For creators starting to earn from fans, yes. The free plan costs nothing, tips carry no Ko-fi fee, and you can add a shop and memberships when you are ready.
Pricing your offers
Keep the default tip small so it feels easy to give. For memberships, offer two or three tiers with clear differences, such as early access, exclusive posts or a monthly download.
Who supports on Ko-fi
Most supporters are existing fans who want to say thanks. A clear, friendly ask works better than a long list of perks.
Owen’s take
Ko-fi is one of the friendliest ways to start earning from an audience, especially if tips make up most of your income. Upgrade to Gold only when shop or membership sales justify it.
Who it suits
It suits artists, writers, streamers and hobby creators with engaged followers. It suits less well sellers who need a full store or marketing tools.
Similar options
- Buy Me a Coffee has a flat 5% fee.
- Patreon focuses on memberships.
- Gumroad sells digital products.
- Stan Store sells from your link in bio.
More options are in Digital Products.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 0% on one-time tips
- Free to start
- Instant payouts to your account
Cons
- 5% on sales and memberships on the free plan
- Basic design options
- No discovery traffic
FAQ
Does Ko-fi take a fee on tips?
Not on one-time tips on the free plan.
What does Ko-fi Gold cost?
About $12 a month for new creators.
Can I sell digital downloads?
Yes, through the Ko-fi shop.
How do I get paid?
Directly into your PayPal or Stripe account.
Can I offer monthly memberships?
Yes, with tiers and members-only posts.
