Written by Admin on 2025-05-06

How to Charge or Require an Email for Download in WordPress

Do you want to charge your visitors or require their email address before they can download a file from your WordPress website? This can be a great way to monetize your content and build your email list at the same time.

In this tutorial, we will show you how to set up a paid download or email opt-in for a file in WordPress using two popular plugins: Easy Digital Downloads and OptinMonster.

Charging for a Download with Easy Digital Downloads

Easy Digital Downloads is a powerful plugin that allows you to sell digital products, including downloadable files. Here's how to set up a paid download for a file:

1. Install and activate the Easy Digital Downloads plugin.
2. Create a new product in the Downloads > Add New menu.
3. Enter a title, description, and price for your product.
4. Scroll down to the Download Files section and click the Add File button.
5. Upload your file and save the product.

Now, when a visitor clicks the download link for your file, they will be prompted to pay for it using the payment gateway you have configured in EDD.

Requiring an Email with OptinMonster

OptinMonster is a powerful lead generation tool that allows you to create beautiful opt-in forms and pop-ups. Here's how to use OptinMonster to require an email address before allowing a download:

1. Install and activate the OptinMonster plugin.
2. Sign up for an OptinMonster account and connect it to your WordPress website.
3. Create a new campaign in the OptinMonster dashboard.
4. Choose a template that suits your needs, such as a fullscreen welcome gate or a slide-in scroll box.
5. Customize the design and messaging of your opt-in form, including the text and fields for the visitor's name and email address.
6. Save and publish your campaign.

Now, when a visitor clicks the download link for your file, they will be presented with your opt-in form. Once they enter their email address, they will be given access to the download.

Conclusion

Charging for a download or requiring an email address can be a great way to monetize your content and grow your email list. With Easy Digital Downloads and OptinMonster, it's easy to set up and customize these features to suit your needs. Give them a try and see how they can benefit your website!