BioLife’s donor compensation varies by location but generally ranges between $40 and $90 per visit for returning donors and $90 to $130 for new donors.[1]
You can donate up to twice per week, and BioLife pays you after each donation via a reloadable BioLife Debit Card.[2][1]
Below, I detail the plasma donation requirements, process, and payment policy at BioLife Plasma Services.
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How Much Does BioLife Pay for Plasma?
The exact amount BioLife Plasma Services pays for plasma donation varies by location, current promotions, and how often you donate.[3]
First-time donors receive bonus pay for their first eight donations when made within one month, ranging from around $90 to $130 per donation.[3]
You can see current rates and bonuses for new donors using the BioLife Donation Center locator. Select your nearest location, then tap on the coupon for new donors to see the details.[3]
After your first month, compensation is typically about $40 for your first visit and $80 to $90 for your second visit within the week.[3] BioLife recognizes a week as beginning on Monday.[4]
Your weight may affect payment, as well, depending on the location. You’ll find these details once you’ve created an account in the BioLife app.[3]
By making two donations a week, returning donors can potentially earn up to about $520 per month.[3]
For specific compensation, it’s best to contact your local BioLife donation center.
Rewards and Bonuses
You can earn points through the My BioLife Rewards program by making plasma donations, referring a friend, having a birthday, and more.[5][6]
Donors can redeem points for rewards like money, gift cards, and charitable donations.[5][6]
You can also get a Buddy Bonus by referring a friend. Bonus amounts vary by location but are usually around $50 to $100.[7][3]
You can find your nearest BioLife’s Buddy Bonus by visiting its Donation Center page. From there, tap on the Buddy Bonus coupon to print, sign, and give to a friend to take with them for their first donation.[7]
Payment Method
BioLife pays donors with the BioLife Debit Card, a prepaid card you can use at any store that takes Mastercard.[8]
It isn’t a credit card, so you can’t charge more than the balance available on the card, but you can use it at an ATM to withdraw cash.[8]
You can also transfer funds to your bank account, though there is a fee of about $2 for transfers of less than $300.[8]
BioLife loads payment onto your card immediately at the end of the appointment.[8]
Fees
There’s a $0.50 fee to check your card’s balance at an ATM.[9]
There’s also a fee of $2.25 to make more than one withdrawal at an ATM between plasma donations. Biolife doesn’t charge anything for the first withdrawal;[9] however, the ATM might.
Over-the-counter cash withdrawals from the bank have a fee of around $3 and if you lose your card, the replacement fee is about $5.[9]
BioLife Plasma Services Donation Process
Eligibility
Donors at BioLife must be at least 18 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds.[10] (See the list of places where you can weigh yourself for free.)
You should also be in generally good health at the time of each donation.[10]
Requirements and Steps
The donation process includes identity and health screenings before the donation itself.[10]
All donors will need to provide the following at check-in:[10]
- A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID
- Proof of address
- Proof of social security number
You’ll also undergo a medical history interview and health screening.[10]
Donors who have consumed alcohol on the day of a planned donation, are taking antibiotics for certain reasons, have recently had certain vaccinations, or have certain medical conditions like infectious diseases may not be eligible to donate.[11]
If you pass the medical history check and health screening, a phlebotomist will set you up to donate; the donation process takes about one to two hours.[12]
Find more details on how to donate plasma for money.
Safety
Donating plasma is generally a low-risk procedure. You might feel weak after donating or feel some pain at the donation site; be sure to eat a small meal, drink water, and rest well before and after your appointment.[13]
Tip: It’s best to avoid smoking, alcohol, and fatty foods before and/or after donating. Eating healthy, iron-rich food and drinking plenty of water will help keep you feeling good.[13][14]
Alternatives
For additional options, see where else to donate plasma for money.
It’s a good idea to check out a few different places in your area to be sure you’re getting the best compensation for your time and feel comfortable at the donation center.
FAQ
Are funds available immediately after BioLife loads them onto a BioLife Debit Card?
Generally, funds are available immediately after donating — sometimes before you even leave the donation chair. Occasionally, a glitch in the system may cause it to take up to two hours, however.[3][8]
How can I keep track of my BioLife Debit Card balance?
You can check your BioLife Debit Card balance by texting “BAL” to 445544, calling the number on the back of the card, visiting an ATM, or accessing your account online or in the app.[8] If you don’t have an online account yet, you can register your card and create one through North Lane’s account management portal.[8]
What do you do about a lost or stolen BioLife Debit Card?
If you lose your card or someone steals it, you should visit your nearest BioLife Center or call North Lane at (888) 472-0099. Your card has “Zero Liability” protection, so the card provider will refund any unauthorized purchases to the replacement card, though there is a replacement card fee of around $5.[9][15]
Are earnings taxable?
While BioLife may not send a form for taxes, plasma donation compensation is still taxable income and you should report it to the IRS.[16] The easiest way to report these earnings is to list them under “Miscellaneous/Other Reportable Income” each year.[17]
In Summary
Pay rates vary by location, but BioLife Plasma Services generally offers new donors between $90 and $130 per donation for the first month.[3]
Returning donors are usually paid around $40 for their first donation of the week and $80 to $90 for their second donation.[3]
You can donate plasma up to twice per week. BioLife loads donor compensation, bonus earnings, and rewards onto a BioLife Debit Card.[3]
Before making your first donation, you must complete a health and identity screening, as well as meet BioLife’s physical requirements.[10]
In the comments section below, you can ask questions, offer advice, and share your own experiences with BioLife Plasma Services. Hearing from others can be especially helpful to someone who’s new to donating plasma.
