> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.opencollective.com/oceurope/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.opencollective.com/oceurope/what-we-offer/online-platform.md).

# Use the Open Collective platform

Your collective page brings together its budget, contributions, expenses and updates.

The Open Collective platform is the website your collective uses to manage its financial activity. OCE is your fiscal host; the platform is the shared tool.

## Sign in and find the right place

1. Go to [Open Collective](https://opencollective.com/) and select **Log In**.
2. Use the email address associated with your account, or choose **Create an account** if needed.
3. Follow the instructions shown. Never share your sign-in link or code.
4. Open your collective using its saved link and check its name before starting a request.

![Open Collective sign-in screen with an empty email field, a Continue button and a Create an account link.](https://2650402318-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-Lm4naYlyngjgKnRsThx-887967055%2Fuploads%2Fj78zOqGGgQ5iYOQoHZVA%2Foce-signin-20260911.png?alt=media)

*Public screen captured on 11 September 2026, with no personal information entered. Labels may differ with your language.*

**Check the result:** you can identify your account and the collective you want to work with. Creating a personal account does not confirm acceptance by OCE.

If expected access is missing, [ask OCE for help](/oceurope/about-1/contact-us.md). Describe the missing action and include the collective link. Do not create a duplicate collective to solve an access problem.

## What you can find on your page

* **About:** your purpose and activities.
* **Budget:** contributions, expenses and available funds.
* **Expenses:** requests for payment and their status.
* **Updates:** news for your community and supporters.

Start with [your first steps](/oceurope/getting-started/basics.md), [receiving contributions](/oceurope/how-it-works/financial-contributions-how-to-donate.md) or [requesting a payment](/oceurope/guides/expenses.md).

## Public and private information

Financial summaries are public. An expense title and your display name can be visible. Supporting payment information is handled through restricted fields, with access for the people responsible for processing it.

Do not put identity documents, bank details, home addresses or sensitive personal stories in public titles, descriptions or comments. If you are unsure which field to use, ask OCE first.

### Choose the name people will see

Your **display name** is your public name. A pseudonym is possible; your **legal name** is used for the administrative records that require it. Review these fields in **Dashboard → Settings → Info**. Do not assume that a public name removes the need to provide accurate payment information privately.

The [account guide](https://documentation.opencollective.com/getting-started/setting-up-your-account) explains these settings. If revealing your identity could put you at risk, contact OCE before submitting information you are unsure about.

For current interface instructions, use the [official platform guide](https://documentation.opencollective.com/expenses-and-getting-paid/submitting-expenses).