--- title: Matching Program Standards description: Learn how ActBlue's matching program works. --- [Skip to content](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us/articles/35062241279383-matching-program-standards#main-content) English - United States Show submenu for translations ![ActBlue](https://help.actblue.com/hubfs/1-B-AB-HorizontalLockupLogo-FullColor-RGB.svg) Open main navigation Close main navigation - English - United States Show submenu for translations - [Contact us](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us/requests/new) [Contact us](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us/requests/new) How can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [ActBlue Support Documentation](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us) 2. [Other FAQs](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us/other-faqs) 3. [ActBlue FAQs](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us/other-faqs#actblue-faqs) # Matching Program Standards ActBlue supports legitimate matching programs that help amplify grassroots donations. To ensure transparency and protect donors from misleading claims, all matching programs must comply with these standards based on our Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). #### **What is a Matching Program?** A matching program is a fundraising initiative where additional funds are contributed based on individual donations. For example, a "200% match" means that for every dollar donated, an additional two dollars are contributed to the campaign or organization. #### **Documentation Requirements** Organizations running matching programs must be prepared to provide documentation upon request confirming that matching funds come from permissible sources. #### **Acceptable Sources:** - **Contingent donations**: Pledges from specific donors who have committed to match grassroots contributions up to a specified amount - **Designated large donor funds**: Funds specifically designated by major donors for the purpose of matching grassroots donations #### **Unacceptable Sources:** - **Recycled grassroots funds**: Using previously raised small-dollar donations to "match" new small-dollar donations - **Pre-allocated operational budgets**: Using funds already budgeted for general operations, programs, or other purposes #### **Acceptable Practices** **Major donor commitments**: "A group of major donors has pledged to match all grassroots donations up to $100,000" **Contingent matching funds**: "A foundation has provided $50,000 specifically to match small-dollar contributions up to $10,000 at a 500% rate" #### **Prohibited Practices** **Unsubstantiated multipliers**: Claiming 400%, 500%, or higher matches without corresponding funds from acceptable sources **Recycling donations**: Using grassroots donations to "match" other grassroots donations **Budget reallocation**: Claiming existing operational funds as "matching" funds #### **Getting Help** If you are a campaign or organization with questions about whether your matching program meets these standards, please contact your Account Manager or our support team [here](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us/requests/new) before launching your program. We're here to help ensure your fundraising is both effective and compliant. If you are a donor that would like to report a possible violation of our Account Use Policy, please visit [this page](https://help.actblue.com/hc/en-us/articles/16870069234839-actblue-account-use-policy) to learn more. 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