Donations in a Telegram channel: three ways

A donation is voluntary support for an author, with no subscription and no private access. Telegram offers three routes: paid Star reactions under posts, a bot that accepts Stars, and a link to an external service. The first two work inside Telegram, so readers don't need a card.

Way 1. Paid reactions

Turn on paid reactions in channel settings: a reader sends Stars right under a post, and the post shows a list of top supporters. The channel owner receives all of those Stars.

Way 2. A donation bot

A bot accepts support by link: the reader pays in Stars inside Telegram. Put the link in the channel description and a pinned post. In TGStudio donations go through your own bot, your share is 85% to 94% depending on the plan, and payouts go in USDT TRC20 from $50.

Way 3. An external service

A link to a payment page outside Telegram. It suits readers used to paying by card, but every extra step loses some of the people willing to give.

How to ask so people give

Say what the money is for: a new series, equipment, time for a deep piece.
Ask after a strong post, not every day.
Thank supporters publicly if they don't mind.
Don't hide content behind donations: that's what a paid subscription is for.

Set up donations →

two channels free, no card · cancel any time

FAQ

How is a donation different from a paid subscription?

A donation unlocks nothing and is paid whenever the reader wants. A subscription gives access to a private channel for the paid term.

Do I need a bank or payment processor?

Not for Stars: the payment happens inside Telegram. Income taxes follow the laws of your country.

Can I combine donations, subscriptions and ads?

Yes. In TGStudio they all live in one panel next to your posts and statistics.

related features

Paid subscriptions and donations