The short answer
The registry records Micro-lending Platform Transaction as a possible interpretation of KIVA MICROFUNDS. This descriptor-to-company association has not passed claim-level evidence review. Compare the exact line, amount and posted status with your own receipt or account activity; the name alone cannot confirm the merchant or whether you authorized the payment.
The notes below are unreviewed registry explanations, not confirmation of merchant identity, authorization or current policy. Claim-level source review is pending for this entry.
Understanding a Kiva Microfunds transaction
Unreviewed registry note: A transaction from Kiva Microfunds on your statement indicates that you have participated in their micro-lending platform. Unlike traditional charities where you simply donate money, Kiva operates by allowing users to lend small amounts (typically starting at $25) to borrowers in underserved communities worldwide. Once the borrower repays the loan, the funds return to your Kiva account, where you can withdraw them or lend them to another entrepreneur.
- Log into your Kiva account Unreviewed registry note: Access your online Kiva portfolio to view your active loans and confirm the specific borrowers you supported.
- Review the loan terms Unreviewed registry note: Check the repayment schedule detailed in your account to understand when you can expect the funds to be returned to your digital wallet.
Is my money gone forever if I lend on Kiva?
Unreviewed registry note: No, Kiva historically has a repayment rate of over 96%. When borrowers repay the loan, the funds are deposited back into your account balance.
How do I withdraw my Kiva balance?
Unreviewed registry note: You can withdraw repaid funds directly to your linked bank account or PayPal via the withdrawal option in your Kiva portfolio settings.
Managing Kiva auto-deposit features
Unreviewed registry note: If you are seeing recurring monthly charges from Kiva, you likely enrolled in their Auto Deposit program. This feature automatically transfers a set amount from your bank or credit card to your Kiva account each month to ensure you always have funds ready to deploy for new loans. Donors sometimes enable this feature during an initial burst of lending enthusiasm and later forget about the automated schedule.
Are Kiva loans tax-deductible?
Unreviewed registry note: The loans themselves are not tax-deductible because they are meant to be repaid. However, voluntary tips made to support Kiva's operations are deductible.
Does Kiva charge interest to borrowers?
Unreviewed registry note: Kiva itself does not charge interest, but the local Field Partners who administer the loans on the ground typically charge interest to cover operational costs.
Independent reference — not affiliated with Kiva Microfunds. Billing names and policies change; verify with the merchant or your bank before acting.
Sources and evidence
Sources may support different parts of this page. A company homepage does not establish a statement descriptor, refund policy or contact detail. Check the claim notes and your own receipt before acting.
- Kiva How It Works https://www.kiva.org
- CFPB Cardholder Dispute & Billing Rights Guide https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/how-do-i-dispute-a-charge-on-my-credit-card-en-1965/
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