Crowdfunding: A Modern Lifeline or a Gamble?

Fri Jan 09 2026 13:19:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As crowdfunding becomes a popular way to raise money for emergency medical bills and other urgent needs, many donors express concerns over the legitimacy and fees of these platforms.

A recent poll reveals that while a significant percentage of Americans engage in crowdfunding to support personal and health-related causes, doubts linger regarding the necessity and accountability of campaigns. Many participants express concern over service fees charged by platforms like GoFundMe, and skepticism about whether funds are used as intended.

In southeast Wisconsin, Quintin Sharpe believes in giving back to his community. As a wealth manager, he often contributes to local food pantries and nonprofit organizations. Last year, when a former classmate's father suffered a serious accident, Sharpe took to crowdfunding to help with hospital bills and donated over $100 to a GoFundMe campaign.

Sharpe's experience is shared by 20% of American adults who donated to crowdfunding initiatives last year, often to cover medical expenses, according to a recent poll from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. While crowdfunding has emerged as a fast way to collect funds for emergencies and personal needs, many donors express skepticism regarding the legitimacy of campaigns, with many questioning whether funds are used responsibly.

The poll highlights that more than half of U.S. adults have reservations about whether those seeking funds truly need the assistance. Further complicating the issue, only 44% are confident that crowdfunding platforms charge reasonable fees. This skepticism leads some to view crowdfunding as a necessary evil in a system with glaring gaps in healthcare and support structures.

Medical costs, often seen as unavoidable and pressing, represent the primary category for crowdfunding donations, with about 40% of givers supporting individuals facing health challenges. The rising cost of healthcare continues to push individuals towards these platforms, especially as recent changes in policy threaten insurance affordability.

While Sharpe acknowledges the potential shortcomings of crowdfunding, he views it as an expedient solution in urgent situations. In contrast, many polling participants illustrate the desire for traditional charitable methods to remain strong, with a preference for transparency and accountability.

Individuals like Maria Barrett, a 68-year-old donor, rely heavily on personal networks when contributing to crowdfunding campaigns and express concerns over exorbitant fundraising goals. Barrett, who has contributed to causes like medical treatments and disaster relief, shared that she wishes there were easier ways for people to get assistance, without relying on crowdfunding.

As crowdfunding continues to grow, understanding the dynamics of donor perceptions and the potential for misuse may be essential for both contributors and those in need.