I Have a Patreon!
Today, I’m officially launching my Patreon. I talked about this a few months ago, so take a look at that article if you want to know what this Patreon thing is all about. Here is the link to my Patreon page, where you can sign up to become a patron:
https://www.patreon.com/colindsmith
I’m going to try to anticipate some of your questions. You may find better answers on the Patreon web site, so be sure to check that out too.
Why Launch Today, Valentine’s Day?
Because giving to support the Arts is an act of love, isn’t it? If not love for the artist, then love for their work.
$1 a Month Isn’t Much! What Can You Do With That?
$1/month adds up to $12/year, which is enough for a paperback book, or a ream of printer paper! Of course, I’m hoping more than one person will give $1/month, and maybe some will give more. Rather than burden people with large monthly minimums, I’d rather make it affordable in the hope that more people will participate. In any case, I’m grateful for every dollar. It all counts, and it tells me you think my work is worth investing in.
What Will You Do With This Money?
See my Patreon page.
Is My Contribution Tax-Deductible?
Since I’m not a charity, no, it’s not. For other tax-related questions, please check the Patreon site, and also consult with whoever does your taxes.
How Long Will Your Patreon Run?
I don’t know, but no longer than it needs to. If at some point in the future I am able to support my writing through book sales and other means, then I will discontinue the Patreon. For now, though, plan on it being a long-term venture.
What If I Can’t Continue Supporting You?
Then stop. I won’t ask questions, and I won’t judge. It’s your money, and you know best what you can afford. If you can only give $1/month, that’s wonderful. If this is not something you can do at this time, then that’s perfectly okay. If you start and have to drop out, then you do what you need to do.
Can I Increase/Decrease My Contribution?
Yes, any time.
How Does Payment Work?
When you sign up to become a patron, Patreon will walk you through the process. The financial transaction is handled solely by Patreon, not by me. All I see is the dollar amount in my balance. The amount you elected to give will be withdrawn from your credit card, PayPal, or whatever source at the beginning of every month.
What’s All This About Dollars? I’m Not In America! How Do I Give With My Pounds/Euros/Yen/Yuan/Won…?
Just go through the sign-up process and give in dollars. Your bank should handle the currency conversion. Be aware you might be charged a fee for that service, however.
Will Patreon Charge Me Any Fees?
No. Nope. And Nopedy Nope Nope. There was a controversy not long ago when Patreon announced plans to levy a charge on patrons. Creators kicked up a stink, however, and Patreon issued an apology, and withdrew the plan (you can read about that HERE). Any fees to Patreon will be deducted from my account, not yours.
Where Will I Find My Rewards?
Right here! I’m using a relatively new Patreon widget that is tied to my Patreon account. Each blog article I post will either be free (like this one), or it will only be available to patrons. There will be some posts that patrons at both levels can unlock, though most will be for the $3+/month level. I don’t plan on posting any special rewards to the Patreon page, so don’t go looking for things there. If everything’s working correctly, there should be another post today that is only available to patrons. So if you want to see it, you know what you need to do… 🙂
Those are all the questions I can think of. If you have any other questions or thoughts, please use the comments. Happy Valentine’s Day!! 😀
