Template: How to Bid in a Silent Auction

Browsing Items

Click the Silent Auction tab in the page header to view all available items. You can search by name or filter by category or price — no account needed.

To see more details about an item, click the blue View button. This opens the full description, item value, and bid history.

Placing Your First Bid

1. Enter your bid amount on the item and click Place Bid.
2. If you're not logged in, you'll be prompted to log in or create an account.
3. Once logged in, you'll be asked to save a credit card if you don't already have one on file.
4. You may be asked if you'd like to help cover processing fees if you win. 
5. If Donate Auction Bid is enabled, you'll be asked if you'd like to donate some or all of your bid if you don't win.
6. Once placed, your bid will appear in the Bidding History on the item.

Please Note: Your card is not charged when you save it. You'll only be charged if you win an item or choose to donate your bid.

Bid Types and Buy Now

When placing a bid, you have a few options:

• One-Time Bid: Places a single bid at the amount you enter.
• Auto Bid: Set a maximum bid amount and the system will automatically bid in increments on your behalf to keep you in the lead, up to your limit.
• Buy Now: If a Buy Now price is available, you can purchase the item outright instead of bidding.

Tracking Your Bids

After bidding, you can view and manage your activity from your account under My Bidding History.

• Green ("Highest"): You are currently the highest bidder.
• Red ("Outbid"): Someone has outbid you. You may want to place a new bid.

From your account you can also choose to donate your bid if you don't win.