Contactless vs. Cash: Why the giving landscape is changing

The way we give is evolving. As we continue moving towards a cashless society, the traditional methods of charitable giving, dropping coins into collection tins or handing over banknotes, are becoming less common. In their place, contactless donations are rising, offering a modern and seamless way for people to support the causes they care about. But how significant is this shift, and what does it mean for charities?

The decline of cash in the UK

The UK has seen a dramatic decline in cash usage over the past decade. According to UK Finance, cash transactions accounted for only 14% of all payments in 2022, a stark contrast to 58% in 2010. With more people relying on card payments and mobile wallets, spontaneous cash donations have inevitably taken a hit.

Charities, which have traditionally depended on face-to-face fundraising and cash donations, are feeling the impact. In fact, a report from the Charities Aid Foundation found that over 50% of UK charities have struggled to collect donations due to the shift away from cash. This change means that without adapting, many charities risk missing out on vital funds.

The rise of contactless giving

In response, contactless donation solutions have becoology is helping charities reach donors in new ways.me essential tools in the fundraising landscape. From contactless tap-to-give devices to QR codes linking to digital donation pages, techn

Data from GoodBox reveals that charities implementing contactless donation solutions see an average increase of 64% in donation volumes compared to those relying solely on cash. These solutions not only offer convenience but also encourage higher donation amounts—whereas cash donations are often limited to whatever spare change a donor has on hand, contactless transactions allow for flexible, preset, or custom amounts, leading to greater generosity.

Why contactless works

The appeal of contactless giving lies in its simplicity. In just a few seconds, donors can make a contribution without the need for cash or complex forms. Here’s why it’s proving to be a game-changer:

• Speed & Convenience – Donors can give instantly with just a tap, reducing friction in the donation process.
• Higher Donation Values – Studies show that card payments often lead to higher transaction amounts compared to cash.
• Future-Proof Fundraising – As digital payments become the norm, charities using contactless solutions ensure they remain relevant and accessible.
• Real-Time Tracking – Contactless platforms provide charities with valuable insights into donor behaviour, helping refine fundraising strategies.

What’s next for charitable giving?

The future of giving is undoubtedly digital. While cash will always play a role in certain fundraising efforts, embracing new technology is key to ensuring charities can continue to thrive in an increasingly cashless society.

At GoodBox, we are committed to supporting charities through this transformation. Since 2016, we have been developing innovative contactless solutions that empower organisations to fundraise more effectively in a digital world. As giving habits evolve, we’ll continue to explore new ways to bridge the gap between generosity and technology.

Want to learn more about how GoodBox can help your charity transition to contactless giving? Get in touch today.