Kickstarter adds a 'tariff manager' to let creators add surcharges to previously funded projects

Engadget - Apr 28th, 2025
Open on Engadget

Kickstarter has introduced a new 'Tariff Manager Tool' to help creators manage the increased costs associated with President Trump's tariff policies. This tool allows creators to apply per-item surcharges to account for these additional costs, which will appear as a separate line item for US-based backers. The move addresses the challenge faced by creators whose projects rely on parts from countries like China and Vietnam, now subject to high tariffs. Backers can choose to accept the surcharge or request a refund, though Kickstarter suggests other resolutions may be possible.

The impact of these tariffs extends beyond crowdfunding platforms, affecting small businesses across the United States. Stonemaier Games, a Missouri-based tabletop game company, is suing President Trump over the financial strain caused by the tariffs, claiming they threaten the company's existence. The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of the tariffs, with Stonemaier citing an additional $1.5 million in import fees. Retailers nationwide warn consumers of impending price hikes and potential shortages as a result of the tariffs and a recent executive order removing a loophole for small package import charges.

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RATING

5.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article presents a timely and relevant discussion on the impact of tariffs on small businesses and consumers, focusing on Kickstarter's new tool and a lawsuit against Trump. While the narrative is clear and accessible, the article lacks balance and detailed sourcing, which affects its overall credibility and potential impact. The focus on negative consequences without presenting alternative perspectives limits the depth of engagement and public interest. Despite these weaknesses, the article effectively highlights issues of public concern and has the potential to provoke debate and discussion. Enhancing source quality and transparency would improve the article's reliability and influence.

RATING DETAILS

6
Accuracy

The article makes several claims that are verifiable but also includes statements that require further substantiation. For instance, the introduction of Kickstarter's 'Tariff Manager Tool' is presented as a direct response to President Trump's tariff policies, which aligns with the broader context of U.S. trade policies affecting import costs. However, the article does not provide direct quotes from Kickstarter or specific evidence linking the tool's introduction to these policies beyond general statements.

The assertion that Stonemaier Games is suing Trump over tariffs is a significant claim that needs verification. While the article mentions the lawsuit and provides a rationale (the tariffs' impact on their business), it lacks direct citations or legal documents to support this claim. Additionally, the mention of a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the tariffs is a serious allegation that requires concrete legal references.

The article also suggests that retailers across the country are warning of price increases due to tariffs and a recent executive order. This is plausible given the economic context but would benefit from specific examples or statements from retailers to bolster its credibility. Overall, while the claims are plausible, the article lacks detailed evidence and specific sourcing to fully verify its accuracy.

5
Balance

The article primarily presents a negative view of the tariffs and their impact, focusing on the challenges they pose to Kickstarter creators and small businesses like Stonemaier Games. It does not provide a balanced perspective by including viewpoints from those who might support the tariffs or believe they serve a broader economic purpose.

There is a lack of commentary from government officials or economists who could provide a rationale for the tariffs, which would help balance the narrative. Additionally, the article could benefit from presenting counterarguments or potential benefits of the tariffs to provide a more rounded discussion.

Overall, the article's focus is heavily skewed towards the negative consequences of the tariffs, without offering a comprehensive view of the issue from multiple perspectives.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its presentation, with a straightforward narrative that outlines the issues faced by Kickstarter creators and small businesses due to tariffs. The language is accessible and the structure is logical, moving from the introduction of the new tool to the broader implications of tariff policies.

However, some sections could benefit from additional detail to enhance understanding. For example, the mention of 'another resolution' beyond refunds is vague and lacks specificity, which could leave readers with unanswered questions.

Overall, while the article is easy to read and understand, providing more detailed explanations and context would improve its clarity and help readers fully grasp the complexities of the situation.

4
Source quality

The article does not cite specific sources for many of its claims, which affects its overall credibility. While it references Kickstarter's new tool and a lawsuit by Stonemaier Games, there is no direct attribution to statements from these entities or other authoritative sources.

The lack of named sources or expert opinions diminishes the reliability of the information presented. The article would benefit from including quotes from Kickstarter representatives, legal documents related to the lawsuit, or statements from industry experts to substantiate its claims.

Without these sources, the article relies heavily on general assertions and lacks the depth needed to ensure the reader of its authenticity and reliability.

5
Transparency

The article provides some context for the introduction of the 'Tariff Manager Tool' and the challenges faced by small businesses due to tariffs. However, it lacks transparency in terms of the methodology used to gather information or the sources consulted for the story.

There is no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest or any indication of how the information was verified. The article also does not explain the basis for some of its claims, such as the specifics of the lawsuit against Trump or the details of the executive order mentioned.

Greater transparency in sourcing and methodology would enhance the article's credibility and help readers understand the basis for its claims and conclusions.

Sources

  1. https://updates.kickstarter.com/first-look-the-kickstarter-tariff-manager/
  2. https://www.404media.co/kickstarter-introduces-tariff-manager-tool-to-add-charges-to-already-fully-funded-projects/
  3. https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/kickstarter-adds-a-tariff-manager-to-let-creators-add-surcharges-to-previously-funded-projects-170851069.html
  4. https://news.slashdot.org/story/25/04/28/1857213/kickstarter-introduces-tariff-manager-tool-to-add-charges-to-already-fully-funded-projects
  5. https://updates.kickstarter.com