When you go to sell blood, you are actually selling your blood plasma. The plasma is the liquid that allows your blood cells to travel throughout your body. If you didn't have enough plasma, your heart wouldn't be able to pump your blood around. This is what makes it such a valuable substance, and why hospitals around the world are willing to pay for it.
Step 1
Decide where you want to sell blood. This can be your local hospital, clinic, or a plasma donation center. It can be hard to find a center that will pay you for your blood (sometimes people give it away for free) so you can use the donation center location tool in the resources section below.
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Step 2
Before you sell your blood, you should prepare your body. You will need to stay hydrated and eat a nutritious meal the day before. Also stay away from alcohol. These can affect your recovery time at the center, and you don't want to do anything that might get your application declined.
Step 3
Check into the blood donation center. You will need a form of identification so make sure you bring your driver's license or social security card.
Step 4
Get a health screening. After you check in you will be taken to a separate room and a file will be prepared on you. The medical examiner will ask you questions and check your vitals to make sure that you are eligible to donate blood. Remember if you have any blood diseases like hepatitis, your application will be declined.
Step 5
The next step in the process of selling blood is to actually have the plasma drawn. The donation center will take care of this and make you as comfortable as possible. It doesn't hurt much, but it does make you very tired.
Step 6
Get paid. The amount that a plasma center pays varies from location to location. This is probably due to supply and demand. I have heard of people earning as little as $10 and as much as $45. Some places will give you a debit card and some will give you cash.
Step 7
Take a rest. You will need to rest before you attempt to drive home. The feeling will be different for everyone, but it is best not to tempt fate and try to drive home.
Tip
If you have small veins, then don't even bother trying to donate. I have heard that if they have a hard time with your veins they will reject you.
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