What Is Stripe? Verification FAQ

What is Stripe

Stripe is the payment processor that Zeffy partners with to securely process payments, payouts, and identity verification for organizations using the platform. As a global leader in secure online transactions, Stripe enables millions of organizations worldwide, including UNICEF and other major nonprofits, to securely accept debit and credit card payments.

Is Stripe Secure?

Stripe has been audited by an independent PCI Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) and is certified as a PCI Level 1 Service Provider. This is the most stringent level of certification available in the payments industry.  Visit stripe.com for more details on their privacy and data security policies.

How much does Stripe cost?

We use Stripe in our backend as a payment processor, but with Zeffy, it is 100% free.

Zeffy is 100% free for nonprofits. We cover 100% of the fees you would normally have to pay with Stripe, which includes banking fees and credit card transaction fees.

Why does Zeffy need to verify my account after successful onboarding?

Zeffy is a fundraising platform that helps nonprofits collect donations through our payment processor, Stripe. To keep the platform safe for donors and nonprofits, and to comply with our partners' requirements, we run ongoing checks on the organizations using Zeffy — even after onboarding is complete. This helps us maintain an accurate understanding of the nonprofits on our platform, prevent fraud, and protect donor trust. These periodic reviews are a standard part of operating a fundraising platform and help keep everything running smoothly for your fundraising efforts.

Why are you requesting additional information after I've already started fundraising?

Our review process is ongoing rather than a one-time check at signup. While we gather key details when you join Zeffy, some follow-up questions only come up once fundraising is underway — for example, based on specific donation patterns, donor activity, or changes in how your organization is using the platform. Additional details may also be needed if your fundraising activity grows significantly, your use of Zeffy evolves, or our partners' requirements change over time.

How does verification work?

Our verification team will contact your organization's representative by email with clear instructions on the information and documentation Zeffy needs to complete the process. Simply reply to this email with the requested details, and we’ll work to finalize the verification as quickly as possible.

How long does verification typically take?

Verification is often completed within 24 hours but generally takes 2-5 business days. To avoid any delays in payouts, we recommend having all required information and documentation ready. Delays beyond this timeframe are usually due to missing or incomplete details from the organization. Rest assured, we're here to guide you every step of the way to help expedite the process.

How can I expedite the verification process?

Provide clear, complete documentation promptly when requested. Ensure all submitted information is current and accurate.

What happens if I can't provide certain documents?

A: Contact our verification team to discuss alternative documentation options. We're committed to working with legitimate organizations while maintaining security standards.

How often will I need to update my verification information?

Reviews are extremely rare and typically triggered by changes in your organization or activity patterns. Once your verification has been successfully completed, additional reviews are very unlikely unless there are significant changes.

Can my payouts be delayed due to an ongoing verification?

Yes, payouts may be temporarily paused while a review is in progress. We understand how critical timely payouts are for your operations, so as soon as the review is complete and your account is back in good standing, we trigger a one-time payout right away — you don't have to wait for the next scheduled payout cycle. In most cases, reviews are resolved before your next regular payout would have been issued, so there's no actual impact on when you receive your funds.

What if my verification is denied?

While verification denials are very rare - most Zeffy accounts successfully complete the process - a denial will result in the termination of your Zeffy account. However, Zeffy will ensure your account is properly settled and the balance is zeroed out, either through a final payout or by refunding the most recent donations back to the donors.

Can I appeal a verification denial?

A: Yes, if your verification is denied, you can appeal by submitting additional documentation or clarifications. Once we receive your appeal, our team will perform a thorough review of your case. This reassessment may lead to either overturning the decision and completing your verification or confirming the denial.

How can I be sure this isn’t a phishing attempt or scam to collect sensitive information?

We always send emails from an official Zeffy domain, so you can trust the source. We also surface a "Payouts paused" label directly in your Finance menu whenever a review is in progress, so you can confirm the request matches what's shown in your account. If you still have any doubts about the legitimacy of a request, don't hesitate to reach out through our website chat or by email.

How does Zeffy protect my organization's sensitive information?

We take confidentiality very seriously and ensure that all documentation is handled securely. Additionally, you’re welcome to black out any information that isn’t necessary for the verification process before sharing it with our team.

Can I continue fundraising during the verification process?

Yes, but payouts will be temporarily held until the verification process is cleared.