Can I Use Donor Email Addresses for Marketing? (The "Receive Updates" Rule)
When a donor makes a donation on Jgive, they are asked whether they wish to receive updates from the organization. In this guide, we will explain where to see the donor's choice and when you are allowed (or prohibited) to use their email address for marketing purposes.
Where Can I See the Donor's Approval?
This information appears within the Excel reports you download from the system (via the "Donations" or "Data" pages).
Inside the Excel file, look for the column titled: Receive Updates. This column will display one of two values:
Yes: The donor approved receiving emails.
No: The donor declined receiving emails.
What Is Allowed and What Is Prohibited?
✅ If it says "Yes"
The donor has given active consent to receive updates from you. You are allowed to send: Newsletters, requests for recurring donations, updates on organization activities, and marketing materials.
❌ If it says "No"
The donor requested not to receive promotional material. You are prohibited from sending: Any marketing material, newsletters, or donation appeals. Sending such emails may be considered a violation of "Spam Laws."
The Exception: Thank You Emails 💌
It is important to distinguish between a marketing email and an operational/personal email. Even if the donor selected No, you are allowed (and even encouraged) to send:
A personal "Thank You" email for the specific donation.
Receipts or documents related to the specific donation.
Direct updates regarding the specific use of the funds they donated.
These emails are considered part of the service and personal relationship with the donor, not advertisements.
Summary
Before uploading your donor list to your mailing system, filter the Excel file by the Receive Updates column.
Yes -> Add to mailing list.
No -> Send a personal thank you letter only.