Skip to main content

Getting Started with TipJar

Get up and running in 5 minutes. Follow these simple steps to start collecting tips.

5-Minute Quick Start Guide

Get your TipJar page live and start accepting tips in just 5 minutes

1

Sign Up for Free

Create your TipJar account with just your email and business name.

  • Go to tipjar.live/signup
  • Enter your email and business name
  • Create a secure password
  • Confirm your email address

💡 Pro Tip:

  • Use an email you check regularly
  • Choose a memorable business name
2

Complete Your Profile

Add your information to personalize your TipJar page.

  • Add your name or stage name
  • Upload a profile picture or logo
  • Write a brief bio (optional)
  • Set your page URL/slug

💡 Pro Tip:

  • A good profile picture increases trust
  • Keep your bio short and authentic
3

Get Your QR Code & Link

Generate your unique TipJar link and QR code to share with your audience.

  • Go to Dashboard → QR Code
  • Download your QR code (PNG or SVG)
  • Copy your shareable link
  • Test the link on your phone

💡 Pro Tip:

  • Print QR codes at least 3"x3" for easy scanning
  • Test your QR code before the event
4

Set Up Payments (Optional but Recommended)

Connect your Stripe account to receive payouts automatically.

  • Go to Dashboard → Settings → Payments
  • Click 'Set Up Payment Processing'
  • Complete Stripe Connect onboarding
  • Add your bank account details

💡 Pro Tip:

  • You can skip this step and set it up later
  • First payout may take 2-7 business days

⚠️ Without Stripe Connect, you won't receive automatic payouts

5

Share & Start Collecting Tips

Share your TipJar link and QR code with your audience.

  • Display QR code at events or on stream
  • Share link in social media bio
  • Add to email signature
  • Print on business cards or flyers

💡 Pro Tip:

  • Announce your TipJar during events
  • Make it easy for guests to find

Feature Guides

Detailed guides for all TipJar features. Click to expand and learn more.

Best Practices

Tips and strategies to maximize your tips and get the most out of TipJar

Maximizing Tips

  • Set Appropriate Minimum Amounts

    Set minimum tip amounts that reflect the value of your service. Too low may devalue your work, too high may discourage tips.

  • Announce Your TipJar

    Mention your TipJar during events or streams. Let people know it's available and how to access it.

  • Make It Easy to Find

    Display QR codes prominently, share links in bios, and make access as frictionless as possible.

  • Offer Fast-Track Options

    Fast-Track and Next Song options give guests a way to pay more for priority, increasing your average tip amount.

  • Engage with Tippers

    Acknowledge tips publicly (if appropriate) and thank tippers. Engagement encourages more tips.

QR Code Best Practices

  • Print Large Enough

    Print QR codes at least 3″x3″ (7.5cm). Larger is better—4″x4″ or 5″x5″ works great for events.

  • Use High Contrast

    Ensure dark QR codes on light backgrounds (or vice versa) for best scanability.

  • Place Multiple QR Codes

    Place QR codes in multiple locations at events—tables, bar, entrance, DJ booth.

  • Have Backup Copies

    Print multiple copies in case one gets damaged or lost during the event.

  • Test Before Events

    Always test your QR code with multiple devices before printing large quantities or using at events.

Event Setup Tips

  • Create Event-Specific QR Codes

    Use event codes to track performance by event. This helps you understand which events generate the most tips.

  • Set Up Before the Event

    Generate QR codes and test everything at least a day before the event to avoid last-minute issues.

  • Have Internet Backup

    Ensure you have reliable internet at events. Consider a mobile hotspot as backup.

  • Monitor Requests in Real-Time

    Keep your dashboard open on a tablet or phone to see requests as they come in during events.

  • Update Request Status

    Mark requests as 'Playing' and 'Played' to keep your queue organized and show guests you're responsive.

Pricing Strategies

  • Offer Multiple Price Points

    Provide preset amounts ($5, $10, $20, $50) plus custom amount option to accommodate different budgets.

  • Set Minimums Appropriately

    Minimum $1 for basic tips, higher minimums ($5-$10) for song requests or shoutouts to reflect value.

  • Price Fast-Track Strategically

    Fast-Track at $10 and Next Song at $20-25 provides good revenue boost while maintaining accessibility.

  • Adjust for Event Type

    Higher-end events (weddings, corporate) can support higher minimums than casual events.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Quick solutions to the most common problems

Payment Failed - Card Declined

Severity: high

Symptoms

  • Error message: 'Your card was declined'
  • Payment doesn't go through
  • Guest sees payment failure

Common Causes

  • Insufficient funds in account
  • Card expired or incorrect details
  • Bank security block on transaction
  • Card not activated for online payments

Solutions

  1. 1

    Check card balance and expiration date

    Verify the card has sufficient funds and hasn't expired

  2. 2

    Contact bank to authorize transaction

    Some banks block online transactions by default

  3. 3

    Try a different payment method

    Use a different card or Cash App Pay

  4. 4

    Verify card details are entered correctly

    Double-check card number, CVV, and billing address

QR Code Not Scanning

Severity: medium

Symptoms

  • Phone camera can't read QR code
  • QR code appears but doesn't work
  • Works on some phones but not others

Common Causes

  • QR code too small or too far away
  • Poor contrast (light on light or dark on dark)
  • Blurry or pixelated QR code
  • Damaged or creased printed QR code
  • Insufficient lighting

Solutions

  1. 1

    Download larger size QR code

    Use at least 3"x3" when printing

  2. 2

    Ensure high contrast

    Use dark QR code on light background or vice versa

  3. 3

    Print at higher resolution

    Use PNG format and print at 300 DPI minimum

  4. 4

    Test before using

    Scan with multiple devices before printing large quantities

  5. 5

    Improve lighting and distance

    Ensure good lighting and get closer to QR code

Payout Not Received

Severity: high

Symptoms

  • Tips received but no payout in bank account
  • Payout shows as processed but money not received
  • Longer than expected delay

Common Causes

  • Bank account not verified in Stripe
  • Incorrect bank account details
  • Bank processing delays (weekends/holidays)
  • First payout still in verification period
  • Bank account on hold

Solutions

  1. 1

    Check Stripe dashboard for payout status

    Log in to Stripe to see if payout was processed

  2. 2

    Verify bank account details are correct

    Check routing and account numbers in Stripe settings

  3. 3

    Wait for bank processing time

    Standard payouts take 1-2 business days (weekends excluded)

  4. 4

    Check with your bank

    Some banks hold transfers for security review

  5. 5

    Contact support if still missing

    Provide payout ID from Stripe dashboard

Stripe Connect Account Not Verified

Severity: high

Symptoms

  • Can't receive payouts
  • Error: 'Account not ready'
  • Charges or payouts disabled

Common Causes

  • Onboarding process incomplete
  • Missing required information
  • Identity verification pending
  • Bank account not verified
  • Additional information requested by Stripe

Solutions

  1. 1

    Complete Stripe onboarding

    Go to Dashboard → Settings → Payments and finish setup

  2. 2

    Provide all required information

    Business details, identity verification, bank account

  3. 3

    Check for pending requirements

    Stripe dashboard will show what's needed

  4. 4

    Wait for verification (1-2 business days)

    First-time verification may take time

  5. 5

    Contact Stripe support if stuck

    They can help with verification issues

Still need help?

Can't find what you're looking for? Our support team is here to help. Send us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.