Data Collection and Fields Only essential information is marked as required fields Optional fields are clearly labeled as optional Each field includes an explanation of why the information is needed Form doesn't collect unnecessary personal information Employer field is only included if matching gifts are offered Phone number collection includes purpose (receipts, urgent updates only) ✅ Minimal Data Best Practices: Name and email for receipt delivery Address only if sending physical thank-you materials Payment information for processing Everything else should be optional or eliminated
Privacy and Consent Clear link to privacy policy is prominently displayed Communication preferences are actively chosen, not pre-selected Specific consent language explains what communications donors will receive Option to remain anonymous is clearly available Easy unsubscribe information is provided Third-party data sharing is clearly disclosed ⚠️ Avoid These Consent Mistakes: Pre-checked boxes for email or mail communications Vague language like "occasional updates" Burying privacy policy links in small text Requiring communication opt-ins to complete donation
Security and Payment Processing Form uses SSL encryption (https://) for all pages Payment processor is PCI DSS compliant Credit card information is not stored by your organization Security badges or trust indicators are displayed Form validation prevents common security issues Error messages don't reveal sensitive system information
User Experience and Design Form is easy to read and navigate on mobile devices Suggested donation amounts are prominently displayed Progress indicators show donors how much of the form remains Error messages are clear and helpful Form fields are properly labeled for screen readers Submit button clearly indicates the action (e.g., "Complete Donation") 💡 UX Tips for Higher Completion: Single-page forms convert better than multi-step for small donations Put payment information last to build commitment first Use inline validation to catch errors immediately Test forms on actual mobile devices, not just desktop browsers
Legal Compliance and Accessibility Tax-deductible disclaimer is clearly stated Organization's legal name and tax ID are provided where required Form meets WCAG accessibility guidelines State registration requirements are met if applicable Terms of service or donation terms are linked Recurring donation terms are clearly explained
Communication and Follow-up Immediate confirmation page appears after donation Confirmation email is sent automatically with receipt details Thank-you message includes impact information Contact information for questions is clearly provided Process for updating communication preferences is explained Donor can easily access their giving history
Technical Implementation Form loads quickly on all devices and connections Backup systems prevent data loss if submissions fail Form analytics track completion rates and drop-off points Integration with donor database is working properly Spam protection doesn't interfere with legitimate donations Regular testing ensures all form functions work correctly