Farewell to Amazon Smile: What's Changing and What You Need to Know
Hey there, guys! If you're an avid Amazon shopper who's been using Amazon Smile to support your favorite causes, you might have heard the news: Amazon's shutting it down. Don't worry, we're here to break it down for you and help you navigate what's next. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and amazon smile ending.
What's Amazon Smile?
For those who've been living under a rock (or just started online shopping), Amazon Smile was a program that let you shop on Amazon just like you normally would, but with a twist. Every time you made a purchase, Amazon would donate a small portion of the sale to a charity of your choice. It was a win-win: you got your stuff, and a good cause got some cash. But now, it's time to say goodbye.
Why is Amazon Smile Ending?
Amazon hasn't given a specific reason for pulling the plug on Amazon Smile. However, some speculate that it might be due to the program's complexity and the fact that it was used by only a small percentage of Amazon shoppers. Whatever the reason, it's time to look ahead and explore the alternatives.
What's Changing and When?
Here's the scoop: as of February 20, 2023, Amazon Smile will be no longer available. After this date, if you try to access smile.amazon.com, you'll be redirected to the regular Amazon site. Don't panic, though – your Amazon account and any orders you've placed won't be affected.
Alternatives to Amazon Smile
So, what's a socially conscious shopper to do? Fear not, for there are plenty of other ways to give back while you shop. Here are a few alternatives to Amazon Smile:
1. Amazon's New Program: AmazonSmile Direct
While Amazon Smile is biting the dust, Amazon is launching a new program called AmazonSmile Direct. This one's a bit different: instead of donating a percentage of your purchase price, you'll choose a charity to support, and Amazon will make a one-time donation of $10 to that charity. It's not the same as Amazon Smile, but it's still a way to give back.
2. Other Retailers' Giving Programs
Lots of other retailers have their own giving programs. For example, you can shop at Target and donate a portion of your purchase to a school or charity through their Target Circle program. Or, if you're a fan of online marketplaces, check out eBay for Charity, which lets you shop and sell while supporting causes you care about.
3. Cash-Back Apps and Browser Extensions
There are also plenty of cash-back apps and browser extensions that let you earn money while you shop, which you can then donate to charity. Some popular ones include Rakuten, Ebates, and Giving Assistant.
How to Make the Switch
If you're ready to move on from Amazon Smile, here's how to make the switch to one of the alternatives we mentioned:
- 1. Choose a new program: Pick one of the alternatives we mentioned (or find one you like better) and sign up.
- 2. Update your bookmarks: If you've been using Amazon Smile as your go-to Amazon URL, update your bookmark to the regular Amazon site.
- 3. Keep shopping: You can continue shopping on Amazon just like you always have – the only difference is that you won't be supporting a charity with each purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you've got questions, so we've done our best to answer the most common ones below.
Q: Will my charity still receive donations from Amazon?
A: If you've been using Amazon Smile, your chosen charity will no longer receive donations after February 20, 2023. However, you can still support them through other means, such as donating directly or using one of the alternatives we mentioned.
Q: Will my AmazonSmile settings be saved?
A: Your Amazon account settings will be saved, but your Amazon Smile settings will not. You'll need to choose a new charity (or use a new program) to support.
Q: Can I still use my AmazonSmile Charity Lists?
A: Yes, you can still use your AmazonSmile Charity Lists until February 20, 2023. After that date, you'll need to use a different Amazon list feature or find an alternative.
The Bottom Line
While it's sad to see Amazon Smile go, there are plenty of other ways to give back while you shop. Whether you choose AmazonSmile Direct, another retailer's giving program, or a cash-back app, you can still make a difference with your purchases. So, chin up, and keep on shopping for good!
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