Start a GoFundMe for someone affected by wildfires

Yes, millions of people have started a fundraiser on GoFundMe for themselves or their family amidst a crisis. It’s a powerful and easy way to rally the community of helpers. If you are fundraising on behalf of someone else, be sure to ask their permission before starting the fundraiser.

If you want to support someone you know who was affected by wildfires, we recommend first asking them if they are ok with you starting a fundraiser on their behalf. Once you set up the fundraiser, you can invite them to set up bank transfers so they will receive the money directly. Learn more about inviting the person you are fundraising for to receive funds.

According to FEMA’s website, “By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits you receive from another source. However, there are many different types of assistance available through FEMA and we review each application to ensure you receive the aid for which you are eligible.”

“If you receive money from a GoFundMe page for a specific disaster-related expense—such as home repairs, funeral expenses or other emergency needs—you may not be able to receive FEMA aid for the same expense. For example, if you receive donations to clean up storm damage to your home, FEMA may not be able to also grant you financial assistance for home clean up. We encourage all survivors to apply for assistance regardless so we can review your specific case.”

Yes, you can raise (or lower) your fundraising goal at any time.

The process of setting up and verifying transfers can take 3-7 business days or longer to complete. Then, once your first transfer is sent, it will take on average 2-5 business days for the funds to safely be deposited into the bank account on file.

One small transaction fee (2.9% + $0.30) is automatically deducted per donation—that’s it. Everything else goes directly to your cause. For more information and to estimate what you will receive, check out the GoFundMe pricing calculator.

For charity fundraising, one transaction fee (2.2% + $0.30) is automatically deducted per donation.

Yes! You can fundraise for a nonprofit on GoFundMe. It is a great way to support a nonprofit and have more impact than a donation alone. Learn more about charity fundraising.

Yes, you can add team members to help you run the fundraiser after the fundraiser is set up. Visit this help center article for a step-by-step guide to adding team members to your GoFundMe.

There are currently 20 countries where our payment processors can send funds. Review our list of supported countries and currencies to help ensure that your country is supported.