newly poor Get help now

Who pays what

Plasma companies and new-donor pay

We track 775 plasma centers in 45 states, taken from the companies' own websites. Here's what each big company advertises for new donors. Amounts are "up to" figures and need several donations to earn.

CompanyCenters we trackNew-donor offer
CSL Plasma288Up to $800 in your first month
BioLife Plasma Services240Up to $550 to $800 in your first month, depending on the center
Octapharma Plasma179Up to $750 in your first 35 days
Grifols Plasma68Up to $800 in your first month at the centers that post an amount
KEDPlasma, BPL and othersVariesAsk the center

Offers last checked October 8 to 12, 2026, on each company's site. They change often, so confirm with your center. Search your city above for the centers and offers closest to you.

Browse plasma centers by state

Popular cities

Before you go

Your first visit, sorted

Most "up to" bonuses need several donations inside the first month or so, and you can donate at most twice in any 7 days, with a day between. Ask the center for the exact terms.

  1. 1

    Prep the day before

    • Drink lots of water the day before and day of
    • Eat a protein- and iron-rich meal 3+ hours before
    • Skip alcohol and get some sleep
  2. 2

    Bring these

    • Valid photo ID (18+)
    • Proof of address, like recent mail or a lease
    • Social Security card or proof of SSN (W-2, pay stub)
  3. 3

    Plan your time

    • First visit: 2–3 hours (health screening)
    • Return visits: about 1–2 hours
    • Pay usually loads onto a prepaid card after each donation

Health first: you generally must be 18+, at least 110 lbs, and in good health. If you feel dizzy or unwell after donating, tell staff right away. Talk to a doctor if you have a medical condition or take regular medication.

Common questions

Plasma donation, answered

Quick answers to what people ask most before their first visit.

How much do you get paid to donate plasma?

New donors usually earn the most. Right now the big companies advertise up to $550 to $800 in your first month, split across several donations. The exact amount depends on the center and your weight, so check with the center before you go.

How often can you donate plasma?

In the U.S. you can donate up to twice in any 7-day period, with at least one day between donations. Many new-donor bonuses require you to donate a set number of times within your first month.

How long does the first plasma donation take?

Plan on 2 to 3 hours for your first visit, because it includes a health screening. Return visits usually take about 1 to 2 hours.

What do I need to bring to donate plasma?

Bring a valid photo ID, proof of your address (like recent mail or a lease), and proof of your Social Security number (like your card, a W-2 or a pay stub). You generally need to be at least 18 and weigh at least 110 pounds.

How do plasma centers pay you?

Most centers load your pay onto a prepaid debit card after each donation, usually the same day or within 24 hours. Some, like Octapharma, hold your first payment until you make your second donation, so ask how it works at your center.

Is plasma donation money taxable?

Money from donating plasma is generally treated as taxable income. Keep a simple record of what you were paid, and check with a free tax help program (VITA) if you're not sure what to report.

Is donating plasma safe?

For most healthy adults it is. Common side effects are feeling tired or lightheaded, or bruising where the needle went in. Drink plenty of water, eat a good meal beforehand, and tell staff right away if you feel unwell. Talk to a doctor first if you have a medical condition or take regular medication.

Need help right now? Dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898-211 for local food, rent, and utility help, 24/7 in most areas.