Subscription and Upgrade Options
OpenHRApp is an open-source HR management system that offers several ways to keep using the platform after your trial period. This guide explains all your options.
This is a sub-guide of Welcome to OpenHRApp.
Understanding OpenHRApp Subscription States
| Status | Description | Access Level |
|---|---|---|
| Trial | Your initial 14-day evaluation period | Full access with countdown banner |
| Active | Activated via donation | Full access, no restrictions |
| Ad-Supported | Free tier with non-intrusive ads | Full access, small ads shown |
| Expired | Trial ended, no action taken | Read-only — cannot create/edit records |
| Suspended | Account suspended | Complete lockout — contact support |
What Happens When Your Trial Expires
When your trial expires, your account switches to read-only mode:
- You can still view all your data — attendance logs, leave history, employee records.
- You cannot create new records, clock in/out, apply for leave, or make any changes.
- A banner prompts you to choose an upgrade option.
You'll receive email reminders at 7 days, 3 days, and 1 day before your trial expires.
Upgrade Option 1: Donate (Support Open Source)
Support the project with a one-time donation and get full access:
| Tier | Amount | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | $5 | 3 months |
| Supporter | $10 | 6 months |
| Champion | $20 | 1 year |
| Lifetime | $50 | Lifetime access |
How donation activation works:
- Choose a donation tier.
- Make your payment via Ko-fi, Buy Me a Coffee, or PayPal.
- Enter your transaction reference and upload a screenshot of the payment.
- Submit your activation request.
- The OpenHR team verifies and activates your subscription.
Upgrade Option 2: Extend Your Trial
Need more time to evaluate? Request a trial extension:
- Select an extension reason (evaluating features, budget approval, setup in progress, training team, non-profit organization, educational institution, or other).
- Choose the extension period — 7, 14, or 30 days.
- Add any additional details.
- Submit the request for review.
Upgrade Option 3: Ad-Supported (Free Forever)
Get full feature access for free with non-intrusive ads:
- Ads are shown in the sidebar and dashboard areas only.
- No ads in critical workflows — attendance clock-in/out remains completely ad-free.
- You can upgrade anytime to remove ads by making a donation.
Click "Accept Ad-Supported Mode" to activate immediately — no approval needed.
Related Guides
- Welcome to OpenHRApp — Overview of all features.
- Install OpenHRApp as a Mobile App — Use OpenHR from your phone.
- Understanding the Dashboard — What you see when logged in, including subscription banners.