Be A Human Donor

Organ donation

How to Donate

There are two main ways to donate organs: while you are alive, or after you pass. Both save lives. This page helps you understand which option is for you.

A kidney donor explains his decision in 6 minutes

Should everyone be a living organ donor?

The Numbers

Behind every number, someone waits. Real data, updated weekly

Last updated: · Source: HRSA / OPTN / SRTR

Living Donation

Living Donation

Donating while alive is the most impactful option: a living donor kidney lasts twice as long (20-40 years vs 8-15 years) and the transplant can be scheduled when the recipient is strongest.

  • You can donate a kidney, part of your liver, a lung lobe, or certain tissues.
  • The process takes several months: medical, psychological, and financial evaluation.
  • Donor Shield reimburses up to $30,000 USD in expenses and prioritizes you if you ever need a kidney.
  • If you are not compatible with the person you want to help, the Voucher Program and Paired Exchange can still connect you.
Donate living

Post Mortem

Post-Mortem Donation

Registering as a post-mortem donor takes 5 minutes online — and it can be the start of up to 8 new lives.

  • A deceased person can donate: heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, intestines, and tissues (corneas, skin, bone, heart valves).
  • Your family will be consulted at the time, which is why it is important they know your decision.
  • Registration is by state (in the USA). The system connects you to the official registry.
  • It costs nothing. It does not affect your funeral. Your decision saves lives.
Register me

One decision can save up to 8 lives

It costs you nothing. Your family is protected. Your kidney can live 20-40 years in someone else.

Donate now Sign me up