Stool Donation Payment Methods and Timing

How Stool Donation Programs Pay

Weekly Payment Schedule

Most stool donation programs process payments weekly. Donations made during one week are tallied, and payment is issued the following week. This creates a consistent pay rhythm for regular donors—expect your first payment approximately two weeks after your first accepted donation.

Direct Deposit Standard

Direct deposit to your bank account is the standard payment method. Programs require bank account setup during enrollment. Payments typically process within 1-3 business days of the scheduled pay date. Check or alternative payment methods are rarely offered.

Per-Sample Payment

Compensation is calculated per accepted sample. Not every visit results in a viable sample—quality requirements apply. Your weekly payment reflects only samples that pass quality screening, not total visits. Programs communicate sample acceptance status, typically within 24-48 hours.

Tiered Payment Rates

Some programs increase per-sample rates based on donor tenure. For example, GoodNature increases payment after 10 successful donations. This rewards consistent donors and incentivizes long-term participation. The rate increase is automatic based on your donation count.

Bonus Structures and Variables

Quarterly Consistency Bonuses

Programs offer substantial bonuses for consistent donation over quarterly periods. These typically require maintaining a minimum number of weekly donations without significant gaps. A single missed week may not forfeit the bonus, but extended gaps will. Bonus amounts range from $300-500 per quarter.

Referral Bonuses

Given the extremely selective nature of stool donation (97%+ rejection rate), successfully referring a qualifying donor is valuable. Referral bonuses of $100-200 per qualified referral are common. Payment occurs after the referred individual completes screening and begins active donation.

Research Study Bonuses

Active donors may be invited to participate in additional research studies for extra compensation. These studies might involve additional samples, health questionnaires, or other data collection. Participation is voluntary and compensated separately from regular donation payments.

Common Payment Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming Every Visit Generates Payment

Samples must meet quality standards to qualify for payment. Factors like consistency, weight, and timing affect acceptance. Track your accepted samples rather than total visits to understand actual earnings. Consistent rejections may indicate the need to discuss quality requirements with program staff.

Missing Consistency Bonus Thresholds

Quarterly bonuses have specific requirements—usually a minimum number of donations per week for the full quarter. Missing a few donations near quarter-end can forfeit significant bonus money. Track your progress toward bonus thresholds and prioritize consistency during bonus periods.

Not Understanding Rate Tiers

If your program has tiered rates, ensure you understand when increases apply. Some programs backfill higher rates to earlier donations; others apply them only going forward. Confirm how tier increases affect both current and historical payments.

Forgetting Tax Obligations

Stool donation compensation is taxable income. With potential annual earnings of $15,000-25,000, tax obligations are significant. Set aside 20-30% of payments for taxes, as no withholding occurs. Programs issue 1099 forms for annual reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions