How to Make $1,000 Donating Blood Plasma

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January is National Blood Donor Month and in honor of that, I wanted to share with you a tip that can not only save lives, but can put some money in your pockets if your ever in need of some cash.⁣ Many people think you get paid for donating blood, the bucks are in donating plasma! There is no compensation for donating blood because experts feel that people would lie about their health just to make a few couple hundred dollars. And I don’t blame them.
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Me personally, I’ve never donated plasma before, but a lot of Royals in our community have so I wanted to do a little research and share as much information as I can so you’re well informed.


What is Plasma?


Plasma is the liquid part of your blood that contains the antibodies we need to fight infections. Scientists us the proteins in the plasma to develop medicines for life-threatening diseases. Plasma products are used by burn, trauma and cancer patients and since the pandemic, we have been in short supply so the need is even more urgent than it has been before. ⁣
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How much money can I make from donating plasma?

You can make approximately $50 to $75 per appointment. The amount of money you make is based on a couple things though; your location and your weight. Some centers also provide bonuses got plasma donation. For example; The CSL Plasma center in Allentown, PA will pay you $1,000 for your first donation.



Do I have to report this on my taxes?

Now you know, the IRS want’s their cut. The IRS website states that you must file a tax return if you have net earnings from self-employment of $400 or more from gig work, even if it's a side job, part-time or temporary. The donation centers will not provide you with a tax form at the end of the year, so it’s up to you to keep your records so you have it to provide to your tax preparer when it’s time.



How much time does it take to donate plasma?

The actual process of donating plasma takes about one hour and 30 minutes. When visiting a center, there may be paperwork involved as well as waiting, that could add more time to your appointment.



Are there any side effects to donating plasma?

The process of donating plasma is relatively safe. However, there are some side effects to frequent donations:

  • Dehydration

  • Dizziness

  • Fatigue

  • Bruising and discomfort

  • Infection

  • Citrate reaction (very rare) - side effects from citrate entering into your bloodstream such as, but not limited to; numbness in or tingling in toes or finger, a metallic taste in your mouth, chills, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness

  • Arterial puncture (very rare and can happen whenever a needle is used to tap into your vein)



How often can I donate plasma?

U.S. FDA regulations state that the maximum frequency of donation is once in a two-day period, and no more than twice in a seven-day period. However, the American Red Cross states that in order to donate plasma safely, you should only donate every 28 days, up to 13 times per year. Regardless of the regulations, you should always listen to your doctor and your body to know the safest frequency to donate plasma.



Where can I donate plasma?

To donate blood safely and ensure you’re following the guidelines, you want to donate at an accredited plasma donation center. You can search by zip code for upcoming appointments on the American Red Cross website.