The one-time hardware cost for tap-to-give plates typically ranges from $3.50 to $5.00 per unit, with no monthly or transaction fees required. This guide covers how volume-based discounts lower the per-plate price and why the absence of recurring fees makes NFC hardware a cost-effective long-term investment for churches and nonprofits.
Volume-Based Discounts
Tap.Giving utilizes a tiered pricing model where the per-unit cost decreases as the order quantity increases. This structure allows organizations to equip their entire sanctuary or facility while maximizing their budget. The pricing tiers are transparent and published on the website, ensuring that leaders can calculate their total investment without requesting a sales quote.
Pricing Tiers and Savings
| Order Quantity | Price Per Plate | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 400+ plates | $3.50 | $1,400+ |
For a church with 400 seats, the total one-time investment is $1,400. This is significantly lower than the cost of traditional giving kiosks or subscription-based hardware. The savings at the 400+ tier amount to $1.00 per plate compared to the starter tier, which adds up quickly for larger facilities.
Customization and Shipping
Every order includes custom branding with the organization's logo and colors. There is no separate design fee, and a design proof is provided for review before manufacturing begins. Shipping is free on all orders, regardless of the quantity tier. This ensures that the listed price is the final price, with no hidden logistics costs.
No Recurring Fees
Tap.Giving operates on a hardware-only model, meaning the cost stops the day the plates ship. There are no monthly subscriptions, no annual platform charges, and no transaction fees taken by Tap.Giving. This model contrasts sharply with software-based giving platforms that charge ongoing fees for access to their services.
Hardware vs. Software Costs
Many digital giving solutions bundle hardware with a required software subscription. For example, some platforms charge a monthly fee for the tap hardware itself, in addition to the cost of the giving software. Tap.Giving plates are NFC-enabled cards that open any URL when tapped. They do not process payments; they simply direct the donor to the organization's existing giving page. Because the plates are hardware only, they do not incur the recurring costs associated with software maintenance or platform access.
Long-Term Financial Impact
Over a five-year period, the cost difference between a one-time hardware purchase and a subscription-based model becomes substantial. A 100-plate order from Tap.Giving costs $500 total. In contrast, a giving app subscription might cost $1,200 to $2,400 per year. Over five years, the subscription model could cost $6,000 to $12,000, while the Tap.Giving plates remain a one-time $500 expense. This allows organizations to redirect their budget toward ministry and outreach rather than technology overhead.
Key Takeaways
- The one-time hardware cost for Tap.Giving plates ranges from $3.50 to $5.00 per unit.
- Volume-based discounts reduce the per-plate price as order quantity increases.
- There are no monthly fees, setup fees, or transaction charges from Tap.Giving.
- Custom branding and free shipping are included in every order.
- Plates work with any giving platform that has a web URL, including Tithely, Pushpay, and Givelify.
- The hardware-only model eliminates the need for ongoing software subscriptions for the tap feature.
- A 400-plate order costs $1,400 total, providing a low-cost solution for large sanctuaries.
- Plates are durable, waterproof, and built to withstand daily use in church environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum order quantity for Tap.Giving plates?
The minimum order is 100 plates. This allows organizations to test the technology in a few areas before committing to a full sanctuary rollout.
Do Tap.Giving plates work with my existing giving platform?
Yes. The plates are programmed with your existing giving URL. They work with any platform that provides a web link, such as Tithely, Pushpay, Givelify, Donorbox, and Planning Center.
Are there any hidden fees or charges?
No. The price per plate is the total cost. There are no setup fees, monthly fees, or transaction fees. Shipping is also free on all orders.
How long do the plates last?
The plates are made from durable, laminated PVC that is waterproof and dustproof. They are designed to withstand daily wear and tear in a church setting and have no batteries or moving parts that can fail.
Can I change the URL on the plates later?
Yes. Tap.Giving offers a Smart Redirect Dashboard that allows you to re-point every plate to a new URL instantly without reprinting the hardware. This is free for the first year on any order and free forever for orders of 400+ plates.
Do donors need to download an app to use the plates?
No. Donors simply tap their smartphone on the plate, and their browser opens to your giving page. No app download or account creation is required.
Conclusion
Understanding the one-time hardware cost for tap-to-give plates is essential for making an informed decision about your church's giving technology. Tap.Giving offers a transparent, affordable solution with volume-based discounts and no recurring fees. By choosing a hardware-only model, you can provide a seamless giving experience for your congregation without the burden of ongoing subscriptions. To see your church's plate and price in 30 seconds, design your plate and start an order today.