Question 1

How long does it take to create an online auction site?

Accepted Answer

Minutes. Sign up, add branding and your first lots, connect Stripe and share the link. Most fundraisers are live the same day.

Question 2

Is it really free?

Accepted Answer

There is no platform fee on the Free plan (UK). Supporters can leave an optional tip at checkout, and 10% of tips come back to your cause. Stripe's card fees apply and are passed through without markup.

Question 3

Do bidders need to download anything?

Accepted Answer

No. The site works in any phone, tablet or computer browser. Bidders register with a name and mobile number or email.

Question 4

Do I need a licence?

Accepted Answer

No. An online auction sits outside the Gambling Act 2005. Raffles are different and may need registering with your council.

Question 5

How do winners pay and how do we get the funds?

Accepted Answer

Winners pay by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay on the site. Payments go through your own Stripe UK account and settle to your bank on Stripe's schedule. GalaBid holds nothing.

Question 6

Can I post lots to winners?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Add a postage cost per lot, capture the winner's address at checkout and mark lots as dispatched.

Question 7

Can I claim Gift Aid on bids?

Accepted Answer

Generally no. HMRC treats a bid as payment for the lot. A separate donation at checkout can qualify. See HMRC's guidance.

Question 8

Can I run the same site for an event later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The same campaign works in the room with leaderboards on screen and a checkout console. See silent auction software for UK events (/uk/silent-auction).

Create a free online auction site for your UK charity, school or club

Create your auction site in minutes

Create your auction site in 3, 2, 1

Create your account, connect your Stripe UK account and add your logo and banner.

Add your lots, one at a time or by spreadsheet, plus any raffle, donation or live auction items. Short of lots? Add experiences from the UK consignment catalogue with no upfront cost.

Share your link and QR code by email, social media and your newsletter.

Ready to Launch!

Check out what our clients have to say

Online auction sites for UK charities, schools and clubs

Bid from any phone, no app

Supporters register by text or email and bid in their browser, anywhere, any time.

Your own lot catalogue

Add your own lots, or pick from the UK consignment catalogue priced in pounds.

Live leaderboard

Top bidders and new activity on the site, or on the big screen at an event.

SMS and email alerts

Outbid alerts with one tap back to the lot, plus close-time reminders.

Secure payment, funds direct

Stripe UK handles every card, and funds settle to your own account. GalaBid never holds them.

Start your online auction today