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It’s not my money: How windfall income enhances donation

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  • Kuai, Ling
  • Wei, Haiying

Abstract

Many individuals tend to donate to charitable organizations after receiving windfall income. However, few empirical studies have focused on the potential links between windfall and donation. This study investigates the impact of the unexpectedness of income on donation. Across two experiments, we demonstrate that, compared to expected income, people are more inclined to donate after receiving windfall income. This effect is serially mediated by psychological ownership and the perceived pain of donation. We explore the moderating effect of the donation payment method and find that the positive effect of windfall income on donations only exists in lump sum donations. This research indicates the relationship between income and donation and offers practical implications to the donation strategies of charitable organizations.

Suggested Citation

  • Kuai, Ling & Wei, Haiying, 2026. "It’s not my money: How windfall income enhances donation," Journal of Economic Psychology, Elsevier, vol. 112(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:joepsy:v:112:y:2026:i:c:s0167487025000832
    DOI: 10.1016/j.joep.2025.102871
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