The Kickstarter you backed may soon ask for more money to cover Trump’s tariffs

The Verge - Apr 28th, 2025

Kickstarter is set to launch a 'Tariff Manager' tool enabling creators to add surcharges to projects post-campaign to offset rising costs and import fees due to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. This tool allows creators to request per-item surcharges for backers with US shipping addresses, which will appear as a separate line on the payment page. While the platform acknowledges the sensitivity of asking for additional fees after campaigns have ended, it offers solutions like adjusting pledges or refunds for backers unwilling to pay.

The introduction of this tool highlights the challenging landscape for creators dealing with financial pressures from tariffs. Larger campaigns, like Peak Design’s Roller Pro Carry-On, have opted not to pass these costs onto backers, thanks to substantial pledge amounts. However, smaller projects face difficulties absorbing these fees, potentially leading to delays or higher prices. The tool's rollout is significant for creators struggling with financial sustainability in the current economic climate, marking an adaptive step by Kickstarter to support its community amidst ongoing trade policy impacts.

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RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and timely overview of Kickstarter's new 'Tariff Manager' tool, addressing a relevant issue for creators and backers on the platform. It accurately explains the tool's purpose and functionality, though it could benefit from more precise details and additional perspectives from creators and backers. The article is well-structured and easy to read, making it accessible to a general audience, but it lacks the depth and diversity of viewpoints needed to fully engage a wider audience or provoke significant debate. Overall, it is a solid piece that informs readers about a specific development within the crowdfunding community, with room for improvement in source quality and transparency.

Accuracy

The article accurately reports on Kickstarter's introduction of a new 'Tariff Manager' tool, providing a clear explanation of its purpose and functionality. It correctly states that the tool is designed to help creators manage additional costs due to tariffs imposed during President Donald Trump's administration. The article also accurately mentions that the tool will allow creators to apply surcharges to backers with US shipping addresses, and that the surcharges will appear as a separate line item on the payment page. However, the article could benefit from more precise details about when exactly the tool will be rolled out, as it only mentions that it is 'weeks away.' Additionally, while it cites examples of projects affected by tariffs, it does not provide specific data or quotes from Kickstarter representatives, which would enhance the factual support of the claims.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view of the situation by highlighting both the potential benefits and challenges of the new tool. It acknowledges the sensitivity of asking backers to pay additional fees after a campaign has ended, which shows an understanding of the backers' perspective. The article also mentions larger campaigns like Peak Design's decision not to pass on tariff costs, providing a contrast to smaller projects that might struggle more. However, the article could include more perspectives from creators themselves or backers to offer a fuller picture of the tool's impact.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, concise language to convey the main points. It logically explains the purpose and functionality of the Tariff Manager tool, making it easy for readers to understand the potential implications for creators and backers. The inclusion of specific examples, such as Peak Design's decision and board game projects' warnings, helps to illustrate the broader impact. However, the article could benefit from more detailed explanations of technical terms or processes, such as how the surcharge application process works.

Source quality

The article references credible sources such as 404 Media and Fast Company, which adds to its reliability. However, it lacks direct quotes or statements from Kickstarter representatives, which would strengthen the authority of the information presented. Including insights from industry experts or creators who have used the tool could also enhance source quality by providing firsthand accounts and expert opinions.

Transparency

The article provides a basic level of transparency by explaining the context of the tariffs and their impact on Kickstarter projects. However, it lacks detailed information on how the surcharge amounts will be calculated and what specific support Kickstarter offers to creators. More transparency about the methodology behind these decisions and any potential conflicts of interest would improve the article's clarity and credibility.